TDP deputy leader Kadiam Srihari brushed aside the TRS' announcement of candidates, saying it was not a final decision. "When the alliance was formed, it was decided that candidates would be selected jointly by all the partners. The TRS has gone ahead and announced two candidates without consulting the alliance partners," Srihari said.

TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu was closeted with leaders of the TRS, CPI and CPI(M) on Sunday night to resolve the issue and impress upon the partners the need for unity. The TDP itself is facing a backlash from within, as many sitting MLAs and former ministers, who are at risk of not getting ticket due to the seat-sharing, have expressed their reservations to the TDP leadership. "We are talking to leaders of all the alliance partners. The issue would be resolved soon amicably," TDP spokesperson N Rajakumari said.