Tue Jan 21 06:40:00 IST 2025: ## TDP’s Push for Lokesh as Deputy CM Sparks Controversy in Andhra Pradesh

**Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh:** The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) is facing internal strife amidst growing calls from within the party to appoint Nara Lokesh as Andhra Pradesh’s Deputy Chief Minister. This comes at a time when the state grapples with numerous issues, including the non-implementation of several welfare schemes, rising essential commodity prices, and a lack of employment opportunities.

While the state faces these challenges, TDP ministers and MLAs remain largely silent, instead focusing their energy on promoting Lokesh’s elevation. This has drawn sharp criticism, with accusations that the party is prioritizing internal power struggles over addressing the public’s concerns. The actions are seen as potentially damaging to the party’s image.

The controversy escalated recently when Minister T.G. Bharat declared Lokesh as the future Chief Minister during a trip to Zurich. This statement prompted a strong rebuke from Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, who questioned the timing and appropriateness of such pronouncements, particularly during a Davos-style investment trip aimed at attracting foreign investment.

The move is particularly contentious given that Pawan Kalyan, leader of the Jana Sena Party (JSP) and a key ally in the ruling coalition, currently holds the position of Deputy Chief Minister. The TDP’s actions are seen by many as undermining Kalyan’s position and potentially jeopardizing the coalition’s stability.

Analysts suggest that the TDP’s actions may be a calculated attempt to score political points, potentially at the expense of the coalition’s unity. The JSP has already shown signs of distancing itself from the TDP in recent incidents, indicating that the current situation could severely strain the relationship between the two parties. The ongoing situation may lead to further tensions and potentially fracture the fragile coalition. Observers are closely watching how the TDP leadership responds to the brewing crisis.

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