Volunteers remain a key political issue during the ongoing elections in Andhra Pradesh. While the ruling YSRCP attempted to make use of them as their party’s ambassadors to win over voters, the TDP made all efforts to prevent them from interfering into electoral politics. But at the same time assuring them that the TDP government will take care of their welfare.
In this regard, TDP chief and former chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu extended a bumper offer on Ugadi day, assuring them to double their monthly salaries. Naidu declared that if the TDP comes to power, the salary of volunteers would see a substantial increase to Rs. 10,000, emphasizing the party’s unwavering support for the dedicated volunteers serving the community.
At a time Chief Minister Y S Jaganmohan Reddy and other YSRCP leaders are spreading a fear among them stating that if TDP comes to power it will discontinue this system, Naidu’s announcement certainly brings a change in perception.
Clarifying any misunderstandings, Naidu refuted claims of plans to dismiss the volunteers upon assuming power, affirming that their service would be valued and sustained under all circumstances. Moreover, he made it clear that TDP always respects those who serve people and contribute for their welfare.
The TDP chief reiterated his commitment to backing the volunteers and recognizing their crucial role in assisting the public. He also took severe exception for spreading rumours on the Election Commission’s explicit directives instructing volunteers to refrain from involvement in the distribution of pensions to beneficiaries, as if it was a plot of TDP to prevent pension distribution.
Responding to this directive, TDP chief penned a letter to Chief Secretary Jawahar Reddy, urging for prompt measures to ensure that pension recipients receive their entitlements without any delays.
