TDP sources cleared the dilemma over party general secretary Nara Lokesh joining the state cabinet. According to party circles, the party supremo Nara Chandrababu Naidu has taken a decision to this extent.
Lokesh, who has been taking key roles in the party affairs, is expected to be a decisive one in the government also. After his year-long Yuvagalam Padayatra, he has turned to be a mass leader to the party.
Though initially he has expressed a view to confine himself to the party affairs, Chandrababu Naidu said to be felt that without being a party of the government it would be difficult for him to take part in taking key decisions.
Earlier he said that after winning the election, he would take responsibility in the party rather than joining the cabinet. However, speaking to reporters after the counting of votes was over, he said that he would accept whatever decision the party takes.
In this background, there has been a discussion in the party circles for the last two days whether Lokesh will join the cabinet or not. But, putting an end to such discussions, the TDP chief clarified on this matter.
Earlier, Lokesh held the responsibilities as the Minister of IT and Panchayat Raj in the government. He has taken an active role in bringing IT companies to Visakha, Mangalagiri and Vijayawada.
As Panchayat Raj minister, he had taken keen interest in the construction of more than 1,000 kilometers long internal roads in villages with the funds of NREGA and other departments. This time there is an opportunity to play a more important role in the government.
Meanwhile, Chandrababu Naidu also announced in Delhi that TDP is joining Narendra Modi cabinet. According to sources, TDP is insisting on a Speaker post, besides three berths in the union cabinet. It may be recalled that in Vajapayee cabinet also TDP holds Speaker post.
However, BJP said to be not willing to offer Speaker post to other parties. Atlest three TDP MPs likely to be inducted into the Union Cabinet.
