Andhra Pradesh’s political climate is abuzz as Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leaders rally behind the demand to appoint Nara Lokesh as the Deputy Chief Minister. While Pawan Kalyan currently holds the position as part of the alliance agreement, his recent demands and mounting pressure on the government appear to have triggered a shift within the TDP, with several leaders advocating for Lokesh’s elevation to balance the party’s dynamics.
The discussion gained momentum during Chandrababu Naidu’s recent visit to Kadapa district when Politburo member Srinivasulu Reddy proposed Lokesh’s name for the Deputy CM role. Senior leader Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy extended his support, praising Lokesh’s leadership qualities demonstrated during the Yuvagalam Padayatra and highlighting his strong rapport with party workers and the public.
Adding to the growing chorus, Pithapuram leader Varma, who played a key role in Pawan Kalyan’s electoral success, voiced his approval for Lokesh’s elevation. Varma stressed the importance of honoring the sentiments of the party cadre, drawing parallels with YSRCP supporters’ continued allegiance to Jagan Mohan Reddy as CM and Pawan Kalyan’s followers viewing him as a CM contender. He argued that TDP cadres’ demand for Lokesh as Deputy CM is equally valid.
Varma further noted that the final decision rests with TDP Chief Chandrababu Naidu. However, his remarks underline the underlying tensions within the alliance. Despite his contributions to Pawan’s win in Pithapuram, Varma has not received any promised position, even after seven months. He recently met Naidu in Amaravati to address the challenges faced by Jana Sena cadres in Pithapuram while maintaining cordial ties with Pawan Kalyan.
Varma’s supporters in Pithapuram have expressed frustration over the lack of recognition he has received from Jana Sena, while Pawan Kalyan continues as the sole Deputy CM. However, the demand to elevate Lokesh has gained traction within TDP, sparking discussions among party leaders. Despite the growing support, Chandrababu Naidu has remained silent on the issue.
Complicating matters, Lokesh’s recent viral comments distancing TDP from Pawan’s demand for the TTD board to apologize over the Tirupati stampede incident have added fuel to the debate. As calls for Lokesh’s elevation grow louder, the political dynamics within the TDP-Jana Sena alliance are becoming increasingly intense and drawing widespread attention.
