In the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections, condoms have been used as a “campaign tool” in the state, with packages bearing the names and logos of the opposition and ruling parties being handed out in public.
Condom Packages with Political Emblems
Videos purport to show condom packages bearing the emblems of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy’s ruling YSR Congress Party being given to voters by party cadres. When questioned about the condom pack distribution in one of the recordings, a man posing as a TDP employee is heard responding, “If there are more children, more money has to be distributed.” This is the reason these condoms are being given out.
Distribution as Election Campaign Material
The condom packets were being given out as part of a package by party officials who were canvassing neighbourhoods for the Lok Sabha elections. It’s interesting to note that despite the condom packs bearing their names and insignia, both parties condemned the other for giving them out.
“Distributing condoms to people for their party campaign. What kind of publicity madness is this? Will they start giving out Viagra next? At least stop there. Otherwise, it will only worsen the decline,” the YSR Congress tweeted, attacking rival TDP.