MATA split over calls for re-election amid ongoing differences

The Mana Andhra Telugu Association (MATA) is facing renewed internal tensions, with one group proposing a fresh election to resolve ongoing disputes, while the other rejects the need for any leadership vote.

The issue has resurfaced as legal proceedings linked to internal disagreements continue in court, with one section of the association pushing for a re-election in May to establish a clear mandate and restore stability.

Members of the group supporting fresh elections, including Bujje Babu Nelluri and Sushwanth Sai Konigeti, have expressed willingness to settle the dispute through a democratic process.

“In alignment with directions discussed during recent court hearings, the leadership has affirmed its readiness to proceed with a fresh election to ensure the stability and integrity of the Mana Andhra Telugu Association (MATA),” the press release shared by Bujje Babu said.

The same group says prolonged disagreements have affected not just internal functioning but also the wider community that relies on the association for cultural representation.

“Our primary concern is the well-being of the association and the community we represent,” stated the press statement.

They have also said they are prepared to return to members for a fresh mandate despite having won the previous election.

“We are currently awaiting a decision from the other parties involved regarding the framework for this election process.”

The proposal includes a call for a “fair and transparent” election conducted through physical ballot voting only, with no online or proxy voting.

However, the opposing group within MATA, led by Dileep Maddukuri, has rejected the proposal for any new election, with member of the same faction, Dr Samuel Reginald saying the organisation already has a recognised leadership structure.

“We do not recognise there is any other party. We are officially recognised in the societies and charities…We have not proposed any elections,” Dr Reginald Samuel, a member of the group, told The Indian Weekender.

He also said there was no need for a leadership vote at this stage.

“We have got an official president and there is no need for us to go for an election,” Dr Samuel said.

He further stated that, in their view, the organisation is functioning normally.

Dr Samuel also dismissed suggestions that a May election was being planned, calling them inaccurate.

“There is no election in May, as being propagated by some people, that is misleading,” he said.

A trademark for a community organisation formally set up under the Societies Act was registered in the personal name of Reginald Samuel, as reported in March this year, a development that has prompted questions around legal and governance considerations.

Meanwhile, supporters of the proposed election say that if held, the outcome will not affect their continued involvement in community work.

“Regardless of the results, their commitment to community service and the promotion of Telugu culture remains their guiding principle,” Babu said in a statement.

A community leader told The Indian Weekender that such disputes are not uncommon when organisations split, and said members should be given an opportunity to vote to maintain the democratic fabric of the association.

They said this could be done through independent election services that handle the process, including secure voting, to ensure neutrality and compliance.

There is no confirmation whether a formal election process will proceed, but both sides remain firm in their positions as legal and internal discussions continue.