Express News Service
Last Updated : 17 Jun 2011 08:05:20 AM IST
HYDERABAD: The Telugu Desam will set up a “media watch” committee at NTR Bhavan to monitor the coverage being given to the party and also to watch the performance of its leaders who take part in panel discussions on television channels..
The party will train its senior leaders on how to talk during TV panel discussions.
The party has also decided to boycott YS Jagan’s media group _ Sakshi TV and Sakshi daily.
An interesting discussion took place at the party’s Politburo meeting on media here on Thursday.
Politburo member and former journalist Kalva Srinivasulu, who initiated the debate, expressed serious concern over the smear campaigning undertaken by some electronic and print media organisations.
The Politburo discussed the media trends for half an hour and felt the need to constitute a committee of experts to closely watch news coverage on TV channels.
The TDP is currently recording all the news telecast on TV channels on daily basis.
“We want to monitor the situation and lodge complaints to media managements if there is scant or negative coverage of us and if undue publicity is given to rival parties,” a Politburo member told Express.
Though the TDP was unhappy with three more TV channels and a recentlylaunched Telugu daily, its main focus was on Sakshi TV and daily newspaper. When YS Rajasekhara Reddy was chief minister he referred to two vernacular newspapers as “aa rendu patrikalu”. The TDP will expose Sakshi in a similar way, sources said. It will ask its leaders not to participate in panel discussions on Sakshi TV.
“When the YSR Congress staged dharnas before the district collectorates on farmers’ problems all the media channels gave it overwhelming publicity. But, in reality, people’s participation in it was very thin,” a Politburo member pointed out.
The Politburo also wanted to keep tabs on its leaders who take part in panel discussions on TV. “We want to observe who are participating in discussions and how they are able to snub the opponents.
Whether TDP leaders are able to convey the party’s message properly during discussions will also be observed,” the sources said.
For this the Politburo decided to train 10 to 15 leaders into TV panel discussion experts.
“The trained leaders will present the party’s views in a better way,” a Politburo member said.
Though the meeting decided to constitute the committee to monitor the news in media, it did not name any leader for the task. However, the Politburo felt that TTDF convener E Daykar Rao successfully faced suspended leader N Janardhan Reddy during a recent TV debate.
“We felt that Dayakar Rao refuted the allegations of Reddy effectively,” a leader remarked. “We have complimented Dayakar Rao for giving a fitting reply to Nagam who is spending more time levelling allegations against Naidu and less on Telangana,” a Politburo member from Andhra region told Express.
Friday 17 June 2011
Thursday 16 June 2011
No Telangana without Hyderabad: CPI
Express News Service
Last Updated : 16 Jun 2011 07:45:41 AM IST
HYDERABAD: The CPI's first public meeting in support of separate Telangana is likely to place it in a more advantageous position in the region than the CPM, which opposes any bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh.
Although renowned for mass struggles, the Left parties have both been bystanders as the separate statehood movement has enveloped all of Telangana. But with its impressive public meeting at Nizam College on Wednesday, the CPI has begun a journey to reconnect with the people of the region.
Addressing the meeting, CPI general secretary A B Bardhan recalled that the Left movement had a close relationship with Telangana having waged an armed struggle for the liberation of the region in the 1940s.
Although the party has now decided to wage a struggle for separate Telangana, Bardhan said, the CPI would act independently and not join any other party in furthering the objective of statehood.
“Some have asked us why the CPI has failed to take up the T movement even after declaring support to the cause,” Bardhan said, and explained, “The CPI is not against people of any particular region. There are working class people in all the three regions of AP.” Narrating the 'injustice' meted out to Telangana in united Andhra, Bardhan said that his party's national council decided to fight for separate statehood after several rounds of discussions. Bardhan made it clear that a separate state of T would not be complete without Hyderabad.
When Maharashtra was carved out as a separate state, there were demands for Mumbai to kept out of it.
But this was not allowed, he pointed out.
Last Updated : 16 Jun 2011 07:45:41 AM IST
HYDERABAD: The CPI's first public meeting in support of separate Telangana is likely to place it in a more advantageous position in the region than the CPM, which opposes any bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh.
Although renowned for mass struggles, the Left parties have both been bystanders as the separate statehood movement has enveloped all of Telangana. But with its impressive public meeting at Nizam College on Wednesday, the CPI has begun a journey to reconnect with the people of the region.
Addressing the meeting, CPI general secretary A B Bardhan recalled that the Left movement had a close relationship with Telangana having waged an armed struggle for the liberation of the region in the 1940s.
Although the party has now decided to wage a struggle for separate Telangana, Bardhan said, the CPI would act independently and not join any other party in furthering the objective of statehood.
“Some have asked us why the CPI has failed to take up the T movement even after declaring support to the cause,” Bardhan said, and explained, “The CPI is not against people of any particular region. There are working class people in all the three regions of AP.” Narrating the 'injustice' meted out to Telangana in united Andhra, Bardhan said that his party's national council decided to fight for separate statehood after several rounds of discussions. Bardhan made it clear that a separate state of T would not be complete without Hyderabad.
When Maharashtra was carved out as a separate state, there were demands for Mumbai to kept out of it.
But this was not allowed, he pointed out.
Chandrababu Naidu to launch a fortnightly
VV Balakrishna
Express News Service
Last Updated : 16 Jun 2011 09:14:09 AM IST
HYDERABAD: After YSR and KCR, it is now Telugu Desam Party president N Chandrababu Naidu who will be directly venturing into the media field. “Obliging to the request of our leaders, I have decided to launch a fortnightly soon,” Chandrababu Naidu said at a meeting with Assembly segment incharges of the party here on Wednesday.
“Some might have started a newspaper and a TV channel with the money collected by blackmailing others, but the 30-year-old TDP, which had been in power for 17 years, feels it still can’t run a daily(newspaper),” Naidu said revealing the rationale behind choosing to launch a fortnightly.
The yet-to-be-named paper, however, will be available only to the active workers of the party and not for general public. Naidu's son Lokesh, however, is now looking after the affairs of Studio-N, a Telugu TV channel.
Naidu also tried to educate his party leaders on how to use technology for the best functioning of the party. A detailed note in Telugu on how to use Twitter, YouTube, Facebook and also the TDP's portal was circulated to important party leaders.
The note explained the TDP membership details and Assembly results were placed on the TDP portal.
Hereafter, information pertaining to party programmes and meetings will be posted on the website and leaders can access it by using the IDs and passwords supplied.
Express News Service
Last Updated : 16 Jun 2011 09:14:09 AM IST
HYDERABAD: After YSR and KCR, it is now Telugu Desam Party president N Chandrababu Naidu who will be directly venturing into the media field. “Obliging to the request of our leaders, I have decided to launch a fortnightly soon,” Chandrababu Naidu said at a meeting with Assembly segment incharges of the party here on Wednesday.
“Some might have started a newspaper and a TV channel with the money collected by blackmailing others, but the 30-year-old TDP, which had been in power for 17 years, feels it still can’t run a daily(newspaper),” Naidu said revealing the rationale behind choosing to launch a fortnightly.
The yet-to-be-named paper, however, will be available only to the active workers of the party and not for general public. Naidu's son Lokesh, however, is now looking after the affairs of Studio-N, a Telugu TV channel.
Naidu also tried to educate his party leaders on how to use technology for the best functioning of the party. A detailed note in Telugu on how to use Twitter, YouTube, Facebook and also the TDP's portal was circulated to important party leaders.
The note explained the TDP membership details and Assembly results were placed on the TDP portal.
Hereafter, information pertaining to party programmes and meetings will be posted on the website and leaders can access it by using the IDs and passwords supplied.
Wednesday 15 June 2011
Singur, Nandigram our Waterloo: CPM
Express News Service
Last Updated : 13 Jun 2011 11:43:45 AM IST
HYDERABAD: The two-day Central Committee meeting of the CPM has realised that the mistakes with regard to Singur and Nandigram "proved costly" for the party in the recent elections in West Bengal and wants to take corrective steps at the political and organisational levels to retrieve the lost ground.
"Negative factors accumulated after the prolonged rule in WB," the party leadership noted. After 34 years of ruling, CPM is learning how to play the role of an "alert opposition" in the state. "If the governments in West Bengal and Kerala reverse the good things done by the Left government in the past, we will oppose them. We will stand by the people," CPM general secretary Prakash Karat told reporters after the deliberations.
The party also observed that the very idea of land acquisition in West Bengal led to the party's debacle in West Bengal. The party's review report also identified the organisational defects and shortcomings which had alienated various sections of the people in West Bengal. "There were weaknesses in some of the policies and measures adopted for the welfare of the people. Besides, the people also wanted a change in West Bengal," the party observed.
However, the Central Committee rejected the motivated propaganda that the electoral defeat in West Bengal rendered the CPM and the Left Front politically irrelevant. "The Left Front, despite the adverse circumstances, has got 1.95 crore votes which is 41 per cent of the total votes," Karat pointed out.
Though, the UPA-2 government's corruption and anti-people policies were rejected in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the voters in West Bengal did not consider them as important and they mainly opted for a change in West Bengal, Karat admitted.
On alleged corruption in UPA government, Karat said the Left, particularly the CPM, had a blemishless record in fighting against corruption, and mooted an effective Lokpal legislation to bring the prime minister also under its purview. He also suggested setting up of a national judicial commission to oversee the judiciary, electoral reforms to curb the use of money power and firm measures to break the nexus of big business,ruling politicians and the bureaucracy.
On the absence of former West Bengal chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharya from the meeting, Karat said Buddha had informed him in advance that he would not be able to make it. "Bhattacharya's health is not permitting him to travel outside Kolkata," Karat said.
On Telangana Karat said that as the consultation process was over and the Srikrishna Committee had submitted its report, it was for the Centre take a decision now.
Last Updated : 13 Jun 2011 11:43:45 AM IST
HYDERABAD: The two-day Central Committee meeting of the CPM has realised that the mistakes with regard to Singur and Nandigram "proved costly" for the party in the recent elections in West Bengal and wants to take corrective steps at the political and organisational levels to retrieve the lost ground.
"Negative factors accumulated after the prolonged rule in WB," the party leadership noted. After 34 years of ruling, CPM is learning how to play the role of an "alert opposition" in the state. "If the governments in West Bengal and Kerala reverse the good things done by the Left government in the past, we will oppose them. We will stand by the people," CPM general secretary Prakash Karat told reporters after the deliberations.
The party also observed that the very idea of land acquisition in West Bengal led to the party's debacle in West Bengal. The party's review report also identified the organisational defects and shortcomings which had alienated various sections of the people in West Bengal. "There were weaknesses in some of the policies and measures adopted for the welfare of the people. Besides, the people also wanted a change in West Bengal," the party observed.
However, the Central Committee rejected the motivated propaganda that the electoral defeat in West Bengal rendered the CPM and the Left Front politically irrelevant. "The Left Front, despite the adverse circumstances, has got 1.95 crore votes which is 41 per cent of the total votes," Karat pointed out.
Though, the UPA-2 government's corruption and anti-people policies were rejected in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the voters in West Bengal did not consider them as important and they mainly opted for a change in West Bengal, Karat admitted.
On alleged corruption in UPA government, Karat said the Left, particularly the CPM, had a blemishless record in fighting against corruption, and mooted an effective Lokpal legislation to bring the prime minister also under its purview. He also suggested setting up of a national judicial commission to oversee the judiciary, electoral reforms to curb the use of money power and firm measures to break the nexus of big business,ruling politicians and the bureaucracy.
On the absence of former West Bengal chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharya from the meeting, Karat said Buddha had informed him in advance that he would not be able to make it. "Bhattacharya's health is not permitting him to travel outside Kolkata," Karat said.
On Telangana Karat said that as the consultation process was over and the Srikrishna Committee had submitted its report, it was for the Centre take a decision now.
'69 stir forced me to move to Delhi for studies'
Express News Service
Last Updated : 14 Jun 2011 12:21:28 PM IST
HYDERABAD: Though the CPM opposes the demand for state’s bifurcation, its Politburo member Sitaram Yechuri, who hails from the Andhra region, admits that a strong sentiment is sweeping through Telangana for a separate state.
Speaking at a meet-the-press organised by the AP Union of Working Journalists here on Monday, Yechuri said: “As there is a strong sentiment for Telangana, the Constitution has been amended several times.” Recalling his experience as a student, he said, “I was a Nizam College student. I was also a Mulki as I had studied in Hyderabad for 12 years. Due to the separatist agitation led by M Chenna Reddy, I moved to Delhi to continue my studies. Otherwise, I would have lost one academic year. An amendment to the Constitution, 371(D), was made in 1971.” He, however, asserted that his party favoured linguistic states and opposed the creation of Uttaranchal, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh. “But though we had opposed formation of the three new states, the CPM is contesting elections in all the three,” he said and added that CPM’s opposition need not come in the way of the central government creating Telangana state.
“The Centre has to take a decision based on Srikrishna Committee’s report. It can not abdicate its responsibility of taking a decision. But it is dragging its feet on the issue,” Sitaram said. To a volley of questions on the Telangna issue, the CPM leader said he did not want to enter into an argument on the justification of the demand for a new state. “The question had better be directed at those who can take a decision,” he shot back.
On the performance of the UPA government, the expert on economic affairs said the UPA-2 was undermining the common minimum programme (CMP).
Last Updated : 14 Jun 2011 12:21:28 PM IST
HYDERABAD: Though the CPM opposes the demand for state’s bifurcation, its Politburo member Sitaram Yechuri, who hails from the Andhra region, admits that a strong sentiment is sweeping through Telangana for a separate state.
Speaking at a meet-the-press organised by the AP Union of Working Journalists here on Monday, Yechuri said: “As there is a strong sentiment for Telangana, the Constitution has been amended several times.” Recalling his experience as a student, he said, “I was a Nizam College student. I was also a Mulki as I had studied in Hyderabad for 12 years. Due to the separatist agitation led by M Chenna Reddy, I moved to Delhi to continue my studies. Otherwise, I would have lost one academic year. An amendment to the Constitution, 371(D), was made in 1971.” He, however, asserted that his party favoured linguistic states and opposed the creation of Uttaranchal, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh. “But though we had opposed formation of the three new states, the CPM is contesting elections in all the three,” he said and added that CPM’s opposition need not come in the way of the central government creating Telangana state.
“The Centre has to take a decision based on Srikrishna Committee’s report. It can not abdicate its responsibility of taking a decision. But it is dragging its feet on the issue,” Sitaram said. To a volley of questions on the Telangna issue, the CPM leader said he did not want to enter into an argument on the justification of the demand for a new state. “The question had better be directed at those who can take a decision,” he shot back.
On the performance of the UPA government, the expert on economic affairs said the UPA-2 was undermining the common minimum programme (CMP).
Comrades set to close ranks
Express News Service
Last Updated : 14 Jun 2011 10:06:45 AM IST
HYDERABAD: Faced with an identity crisis after their big defeat in West Bengal and losing power in Kerala, both the CPI and the CPM are in a “hurry” for “reunification”. “We are in a hurry for reunification. But, it will take time as some processes should be completed before the reunification,” CPM politburo member Sitaram Yechury said here on Monday. He was speaking at a ‘Meet the Press’ organised by the Andhra Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ).
CPI national secretary D Raja had echoed similar views in Vijayawada on Sunday and pointed out: “We have been making similar proposals from Harkishan Singh Surjeet’s time. It is up to the CPM to respond.” Asked about the proposal, Yechury conceded that their well-wishers were rooting for reunification, but added, “Unity will happen in two ways. The first, when both parties shake hands and go for a direct merger. But it is not sustainable.” The other way, according to him, was to start the merger process from the grassroots level. “The Left has chosen to go this way,” he revealed and further elaborating said, “We ask our Kisan, Youth and other mass organisations to work together during mass movements. This unity of mass organisations will reach the top. This process is on and we are also in a hurry for the reunification.” He felt that failure to complete the process would not lead to a meaningful unity.
The comrades parted ways way back in July 1964 when radical communists broke away from the CPI and called for a summit in Tenali, Andhra Pradesh. It was at that meeting that the CPM was born. Almost 47 years later, facing both an existential and ideological crises, the two parties are now singing the “reunification tune”. It is ironic that top leaders of both the parties are talking of reunification in the same State where they had once parted ways.
Karat Meets Naidu, Seeks TDP Support
Hyderabad: CPM general secretary Prakash Karat on Monday explained to TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu the series of attacks on CPM offices and party workers in West Bengal and sought the TDP’s support in opposing the violence. Karat called on Naidu at the latter’s residence and during their one-and-a-half hours meeting, Karat and Naidu also discussed the anti-graft movement and the UPA government’s response to the same. Later speaking to reporters, Karat said the CPM had decided to make Trinamool violence a national issue and that he had sought Naidu’s support.
Last Updated : 14 Jun 2011 10:06:45 AM IST
HYDERABAD: Faced with an identity crisis after their big defeat in West Bengal and losing power in Kerala, both the CPI and the CPM are in a “hurry” for “reunification”. “We are in a hurry for reunification. But, it will take time as some processes should be completed before the reunification,” CPM politburo member Sitaram Yechury said here on Monday. He was speaking at a ‘Meet the Press’ organised by the Andhra Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ).
CPI national secretary D Raja had echoed similar views in Vijayawada on Sunday and pointed out: “We have been making similar proposals from Harkishan Singh Surjeet’s time. It is up to the CPM to respond.” Asked about the proposal, Yechury conceded that their well-wishers were rooting for reunification, but added, “Unity will happen in two ways. The first, when both parties shake hands and go for a direct merger. But it is not sustainable.” The other way, according to him, was to start the merger process from the grassroots level. “The Left has chosen to go this way,” he revealed and further elaborating said, “We ask our Kisan, Youth and other mass organisations to work together during mass movements. This unity of mass organisations will reach the top. This process is on and we are also in a hurry for the reunification.” He felt that failure to complete the process would not lead to a meaningful unity.
The comrades parted ways way back in July 1964 when radical communists broke away from the CPI and called for a summit in Tenali, Andhra Pradesh. It was at that meeting that the CPM was born. Almost 47 years later, facing both an existential and ideological crises, the two parties are now singing the “reunification tune”. It is ironic that top leaders of both the parties are talking of reunification in the same State where they had once parted ways.
Karat Meets Naidu, Seeks TDP Support
Hyderabad: CPM general secretary Prakash Karat on Monday explained to TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu the series of attacks on CPM offices and party workers in West Bengal and sought the TDP’s support in opposing the violence. Karat called on Naidu at the latter’s residence and during their one-and-a-half hours meeting, Karat and Naidu also discussed the anti-graft movement and the UPA government’s response to the same. Later speaking to reporters, Karat said the CPM had decided to make Trinamool violence a national issue and that he had sought Naidu’s support.
Thursday 2 June 2011
Telugu Desam grandsons in succession battle
V V Balakrishna
Last Updated : 29 May 2011 07:28:16 AM IST
HYDERABAD: With Junior NTR, film actor and son of Rajya Sabha member Nandamuri Harikrishna, giving a miss to Mahanadu, the three-day annual conclave of the Telugu Desam Party which is underway in Hyderabad, the air is pregnant with the uneasy feeling that the Chandrababu Naidu’s successor issue is once again hotting up.
While Naidu’s son Nara Lokesh Naidu is being projected as his successor, NTR’s grandson—NTR Jr and Harikrishna’s son are battling it out for the TDP throne. In Krishna, the native place of TDP founder late N T Rama Rao, the party is divided into Harikrishna and Naidu factions. When N Chandrababu Naidu went to NTR Ghat on Saturday to pay homage to the leader, slogans were raised that NTR’s family be treated with more vitality in the party. TDP activists from Chandragiri, Chittoor—Naidu’s stronghold—demand Lokesh be given the charge, indicating he might contest the seat in the 2014 polls. Harikrishna’s followers demand NTR Jr be given an important role in TDP. Harikrishna is a politburo member of TDP and a Rajya Sabha member.
NTR Jr is a leading Telugu actor, while Lokesh runs the family business, Heritage Foods, that makes dairy products. Lokesh was also poll manager for his father Naidu in the Kuppam Assembly constituency.
Family politics got murkier when Naidu used Balakrishna, another of NTR’s sons Balakrishna, whose daughter Brahmani is married to son Lokesh. Balakrishna too is a star campaigner for the TDP, which blamed NTR’s daughter and Union Minister D Purandeswari for causing the trouble in the party at the behest of the Congress. Naidu earlier “NTR Jr is busy with films and Lokesh is busy with business”.
Last Updated : 29 May 2011 07:28:16 AM IST
HYDERABAD: With Junior NTR, film actor and son of Rajya Sabha member Nandamuri Harikrishna, giving a miss to Mahanadu, the three-day annual conclave of the Telugu Desam Party which is underway in Hyderabad, the air is pregnant with the uneasy feeling that the Chandrababu Naidu’s successor issue is once again hotting up.
While Naidu’s son Nara Lokesh Naidu is being projected as his successor, NTR’s grandson—NTR Jr and Harikrishna’s son are battling it out for the TDP throne. In Krishna, the native place of TDP founder late N T Rama Rao, the party is divided into Harikrishna and Naidu factions. When N Chandrababu Naidu went to NTR Ghat on Saturday to pay homage to the leader, slogans were raised that NTR’s family be treated with more vitality in the party. TDP activists from Chandragiri, Chittoor—Naidu’s stronghold—demand Lokesh be given the charge, indicating he might contest the seat in the 2014 polls. Harikrishna’s followers demand NTR Jr be given an important role in TDP. Harikrishna is a politburo member of TDP and a Rajya Sabha member.
NTR Jr is a leading Telugu actor, while Lokesh runs the family business, Heritage Foods, that makes dairy products. Lokesh was also poll manager for his father Naidu in the Kuppam Assembly constituency.
Family politics got murkier when Naidu used Balakrishna, another of NTR’s sons Balakrishna, whose daughter Brahmani is married to son Lokesh. Balakrishna too is a star campaigner for the TDP, which blamed NTR’s daughter and Union Minister D Purandeswari for causing the trouble in the party at the behest of the Congress. Naidu earlier “NTR Jr is busy with films and Lokesh is busy with business”.
Babu sings a fresh Telangana tune
Express News Service
Last Updated : 29 May 2011 10:53:38 AM IST
HYDERABAD: Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president N Chandrababu Naidu appears to have become a changed man as far as the separate statehood demand for Telangana is concerned.
Naidu played Batukamma, a tradition of Telangana, along with a large number of women on Saturday. He also called up the Cyberabad police commissioner and requested him to drop all cases against Osmania University students who staged a protest at the entrance of Mahanadu on Friday. All the students were subsequently released by the police.
Naidu also snubbed Andhra leaders for protesting against his speech on Telangana on Friday. Further, Naidu hinted that he would discuss the T issue in the coming days and also make a reference on the statehood demand in his concluding speech on Sunday.
“All the T leaders are happy with Naidu’s speech yesterday,” said TTDF convener E Dayakar Rao. Regarding the dropping of cases against students, he said, “Police had registered ten cases against each student. Naidu told the police that they have no grudge against them and wanted their release.”
Sources said that when Andhra leaders including Yanamala Ramakrishnudu and Dadi Veerabhadra Rao protested about Naidu’s for his bold talk on Telangana, Naidu reportedly told them that he had spoken thus as it was necessary for the leaders of that region.
Meanwhile, a senior TDP leader and hard core Telanganite from Medak district attacked both Congress and TRS during a discussion on the price rise issue at the Mahanadu. Naidu initially objected to the speech by 70-year-old Gopal Reddy, a former sarpanch, on the grounds that it was deviating from the agenda. He however allowed him to speak later.
“I was a sarpanch for 25 years and had participated in the T-agitation in 1969. Naxalites blasted my house and warned me to quit TDP. But I am still with the party which developed the Telangana region,” Gopal Reddy said.
Last Updated : 29 May 2011 10:53:38 AM IST
HYDERABAD: Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president N Chandrababu Naidu appears to have become a changed man as far as the separate statehood demand for Telangana is concerned.
Naidu played Batukamma, a tradition of Telangana, along with a large number of women on Saturday. He also called up the Cyberabad police commissioner and requested him to drop all cases against Osmania University students who staged a protest at the entrance of Mahanadu on Friday. All the students were subsequently released by the police.
Naidu also snubbed Andhra leaders for protesting against his speech on Telangana on Friday. Further, Naidu hinted that he would discuss the T issue in the coming days and also make a reference on the statehood demand in his concluding speech on Sunday.
“All the T leaders are happy with Naidu’s speech yesterday,” said TTDF convener E Dayakar Rao. Regarding the dropping of cases against students, he said, “Police had registered ten cases against each student. Naidu told the police that they have no grudge against them and wanted their release.”
Sources said that when Andhra leaders including Yanamala Ramakrishnudu and Dadi Veerabhadra Rao protested about Naidu’s for his bold talk on Telangana, Naidu reportedly told them that he had spoken thus as it was necessary for the leaders of that region.
Meanwhile, a senior TDP leader and hard core Telanganite from Medak district attacked both Congress and TRS during a discussion on the price rise issue at the Mahanadu. Naidu initially objected to the speech by 70-year-old Gopal Reddy, a former sarpanch, on the grounds that it was deviating from the agenda. He however allowed him to speak later.
“I was a sarpanch for 25 years and had participated in the T-agitation in 1969. Naxalites blasted my house and warned me to quit TDP. But I am still with the party which developed the Telangana region,” Gopal Reddy said.
Naidu terms tie-up with NDA a mistake
Express News Service
Last Updated : 29 May 2011 08:54:54 AM IST
HYDERABAD: Leader of the opposition and former chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu is correcting his past mistakes. After almost saying sorry to government employees and those sections of people affected by the economic and power sector reforms during his rule, Naidu admitted on Saturday that it was a mistake to forge an alliance the with BJP-led NDA.
“We will not forge alliance with any communal party in the future,” Naidu averred. Forget the past and support the TDP, was his appeal to Muslims. However, a clarity on the party’s stand on alliance will come only after the party adopts a political resolution on Sunday, the final day of the Mahanadu.
Naidu alleged that the Congress government institutionalised corruption and weakened all the institutions. The Mahanadu demanded immediate enactment of Janlok Pal Bill and urged the central government to bring back the black money stashed in tax havens abroad. It also demanded a probe by a sitting HC judge into the allegations of corruption against YSR between 2004-09 and the investments in the companies currently owned by YSR Congress president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. It also demanded a probe in the allegations of corruption against ministers.
On land acquisition, the party opposed forcible acquisition of lands from private persons and asked the government to return all unused lands acquired for SEZs, industries and ORR to the original owners.
The TDP president declared that his party would rename the Rajiv Gandhi international airport as NTR airport if it comes to power in the next polls.
Comments
Naidu always wants to eat the cake and have it too.His ambivalent stand on Telangaana is sure to sink the TDP boat in both regions.
By suryaprakasam
5/29/2011 10:16:00 AM
Last Updated : 29 May 2011 08:54:54 AM IST
HYDERABAD: Leader of the opposition and former chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu is correcting his past mistakes. After almost saying sorry to government employees and those sections of people affected by the economic and power sector reforms during his rule, Naidu admitted on Saturday that it was a mistake to forge an alliance the with BJP-led NDA.
“We will not forge alliance with any communal party in the future,” Naidu averred. Forget the past and support the TDP, was his appeal to Muslims. However, a clarity on the party’s stand on alliance will come only after the party adopts a political resolution on Sunday, the final day of the Mahanadu.
Naidu alleged that the Congress government institutionalised corruption and weakened all the institutions. The Mahanadu demanded immediate enactment of Janlok Pal Bill and urged the central government to bring back the black money stashed in tax havens abroad. It also demanded a probe by a sitting HC judge into the allegations of corruption against YSR between 2004-09 and the investments in the companies currently owned by YSR Congress president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. It also demanded a probe in the allegations of corruption against ministers.
On land acquisition, the party opposed forcible acquisition of lands from private persons and asked the government to return all unused lands acquired for SEZs, industries and ORR to the original owners.
The TDP president declared that his party would rename the Rajiv Gandhi international airport as NTR airport if it comes to power in the next polls.
Comments
Naidu always wants to eat the cake and have it too.His ambivalent stand on Telangaana is sure to sink the TDP boat in both regions.
By suryaprakasam
5/29/2011 10:16:00 AM
We are ready to quit for Telangana: Dayakar Rao
VV Balakrishna
Express News Service
Last Updated : 26 May 2011 12:18:28 PM IST
KARIMNAGAR: Telangana Telugu Desam Forum (TTDF) has thrown a challenge to JAC chairman M Kodandaram to fix a date so that all the 36 TDP MLAs, three MPs and MLCs from Telangana region will submit their resignations.
Addressing the first meeting of the TTDF here on Wednesday, forum convenor E Dayakar Rao said: “We have faith in Kodandaram. He should fix a date. We will come to OU or speaker’s office to submit our resignations.” But Kodandaram should declare Congress, TRS and BJP leaders traitors of Telangana, if elected representatives of the respective parties failed to submit their resignations, Dayakar Rao said.
He also mooted the proposal to field the kin of 600 people who committed suicide for the cause of T state in the forthcoming local body elections.
“Let us all support them as independents,” he said. Top TDP leaders mainly focused on Congress and TRS bashing and tried to convince the people that TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu would not obstruct the formation of separate Telangana state.
“It is the Congress which ditched Telangana people. Kadapa MP YS Jaganmohan Reddy is a traitor of T. But TRS is supporting him. Naidu assured us that he would support the TTDF’s fight for Telangana state,” Dayakar Rao said.
“There is no change in TDP’s stand on Telangana issue. Naidu did not deviate from his commitment towards T,” Dayakar Rao said.He recalled that Lalu Prasad Yadav opposed bifurcation of Bihar, but the Congress did it. It was the Congress which lacked commitment and blaming others.
“If AICC president Sonia Gandhi called up Naidu and said they would form Telangana if a letter comes from the TDP chief, we are ready to send a letter within an hour,” Dayakar Rao said.
He announced that the TDP Mahanadu would indeed discuss the Telangana issue. “We will discuss GO 177 and other related issues also,” he said. He pointed out that it was Naidu who was jailed for fighting against Babli.
“No member in TRS chief KCR’s family made any sacrifice. They never tasted the police lathi.
The TRS is trying to bury the TDP in the guise of T-movement,” he alleged.
Referring to TRS’ attempts to disrupt the meeting, Dayakar Rao dared TRS activists to fight with them if they have courage.
Several senior leaders like T Devender Goud, E Peddireddy, MLAs A Revanth Reddy, Anasuya and others blamed the Congress and TRS for hoodwinking T-people. Party workers Balaraju and Naresh told Express that they were happy that the TDP was now fighting for T and the state would be carved out soon. The meeting adopted several resolutions, including introduction of a bill in Parliament to form Telangana state.
Comments
There is a saying in Telugu "chastanu, chastanu anna savite gaani, chachina saviti ledu". There is another story. One person announced in village that he can carry the Hill of the village on his shoulders. Villagers challenged him. So a day was fixed. He went near Hill and bent. The villagers asked what for he is waiting. He told villagers to put hill on his shoulders, so he can carry. All telangana leaders are like that. Everybody says he is ready. Ready for what. Gandhiji, Patel, Nehru did not say I am ready to British. Comedy piece.
By kona sam
5/26/2011 1:02:00 PM
Express News Service
Last Updated : 26 May 2011 12:18:28 PM IST
KARIMNAGAR: Telangana Telugu Desam Forum (TTDF) has thrown a challenge to JAC chairman M Kodandaram to fix a date so that all the 36 TDP MLAs, three MPs and MLCs from Telangana region will submit their resignations.
Addressing the first meeting of the TTDF here on Wednesday, forum convenor E Dayakar Rao said: “We have faith in Kodandaram. He should fix a date. We will come to OU or speaker’s office to submit our resignations.” But Kodandaram should declare Congress, TRS and BJP leaders traitors of Telangana, if elected representatives of the respective parties failed to submit their resignations, Dayakar Rao said.
He also mooted the proposal to field the kin of 600 people who committed suicide for the cause of T state in the forthcoming local body elections.
“Let us all support them as independents,” he said. Top TDP leaders mainly focused on Congress and TRS bashing and tried to convince the people that TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu would not obstruct the formation of separate Telangana state.
“It is the Congress which ditched Telangana people. Kadapa MP YS Jaganmohan Reddy is a traitor of T. But TRS is supporting him. Naidu assured us that he would support the TTDF’s fight for Telangana state,” Dayakar Rao said.
“There is no change in TDP’s stand on Telangana issue. Naidu did not deviate from his commitment towards T,” Dayakar Rao said.He recalled that Lalu Prasad Yadav opposed bifurcation of Bihar, but the Congress did it. It was the Congress which lacked commitment and blaming others.
“If AICC president Sonia Gandhi called up Naidu and said they would form Telangana if a letter comes from the TDP chief, we are ready to send a letter within an hour,” Dayakar Rao said.
He announced that the TDP Mahanadu would indeed discuss the Telangana issue. “We will discuss GO 177 and other related issues also,” he said. He pointed out that it was Naidu who was jailed for fighting against Babli.
“No member in TRS chief KCR’s family made any sacrifice. They never tasted the police lathi.
The TRS is trying to bury the TDP in the guise of T-movement,” he alleged.
Referring to TRS’ attempts to disrupt the meeting, Dayakar Rao dared TRS activists to fight with them if they have courage.
Several senior leaders like T Devender Goud, E Peddireddy, MLAs A Revanth Reddy, Anasuya and others blamed the Congress and TRS for hoodwinking T-people. Party workers Balaraju and Naresh told Express that they were happy that the TDP was now fighting for T and the state would be carved out soon. The meeting adopted several resolutions, including introduction of a bill in Parliament to form Telangana state.
Comments
There is a saying in Telugu "chastanu, chastanu anna savite gaani, chachina saviti ledu". There is another story. One person announced in village that he can carry the Hill of the village on his shoulders. Villagers challenged him. So a day was fixed. He went near Hill and bent. The villagers asked what for he is waiting. He told villagers to put hill on his shoulders, so he can carry. All telangana leaders are like that. Everybody says he is ready. Ready for what. Gandhiji, Patel, Nehru did not say I am ready to British. Comedy piece.
By kona sam
5/26/2011 1:02:00 PM
AP: Babu under pressure to ease Telangana stance
VV Balakrishna
Express News Service
Last Updated : 27 May 2011 08:39:55 AM IST
HYDERABAD: The trouble created by rebel Telangana leader Nagam Janardhan Reddy, which subsequently led to his suspension from the party, and the growing importance of Nara Lokesh, son of party chief N Chandrababu Naidu, are likely to dominate the proceedings of the three-day Mahanadu, the annual conclave of the Telugu Desam, which begins here on Friday.
With Janardhan Reddy daring the party leadership to adopt a resolution on Telangana at the Mahanadu, the party will have to discuss the issue, whether Naidu likes it or not.
The party is expected to endorse the agitational programme of its Telangana leaders. It will have to shed its anti-Telangana image without deviating from the core philosophy of Naidu’s two-eye policy. There will, however, be no resolution in favour of Telangana.
Naidu may recall his fight against the Babli project in Maharashtra, for beedi workers and farmers in Telangana to claim his love for Telangana.
The role of Lokesh in the party will also be discussed. A few days ago, the Chadragiri party unit adopted a resolution that he be made in charge of the party unit. If Lokesh is assigned an important role, there are chances of the Nara-Nandamuri family feud erupting again.
The conclave will finalise a strategy to capture power in the 2014 elections.
“We will adopt not fewer than 11 resolutions. The meeting will give a new direction to the cadre,” Politburo member K Yerran Naidu said.
Express News Service
Last Updated : 27 May 2011 08:39:55 AM IST
HYDERABAD: The trouble created by rebel Telangana leader Nagam Janardhan Reddy, which subsequently led to his suspension from the party, and the growing importance of Nara Lokesh, son of party chief N Chandrababu Naidu, are likely to dominate the proceedings of the three-day Mahanadu, the annual conclave of the Telugu Desam, which begins here on Friday.
With Janardhan Reddy daring the party leadership to adopt a resolution on Telangana at the Mahanadu, the party will have to discuss the issue, whether Naidu likes it or not.
The party is expected to endorse the agitational programme of its Telangana leaders. It will have to shed its anti-Telangana image without deviating from the core philosophy of Naidu’s two-eye policy. There will, however, be no resolution in favour of Telangana.
Naidu may recall his fight against the Babli project in Maharashtra, for beedi workers and farmers in Telangana to claim his love for Telangana.
The role of Lokesh in the party will also be discussed. A few days ago, the Chadragiri party unit adopted a resolution that he be made in charge of the party unit. If Lokesh is assigned an important role, there are chances of the Nara-Nandamuri family feud erupting again.
The conclave will finalise a strategy to capture power in the 2014 elections.
“We will adopt not fewer than 11 resolutions. The meeting will give a new direction to the cadre,” Politburo member K Yerran Naidu said.
TDP to move no-trust motion
VV Balakrishna
Express News Service
Last Updated : 28 May 2011 03:41:41 PM IST
HYDERABAD: The Telugu Desam’s three-day annual conclave Mahanadu, which began here on Friday, sent out a loud warning to the Kiran Kumar Reddy government as well as YS Jagan Mohan Reddy while being more vocal on the Telangana issue without abandoning its two-eye philosophy.
Party chief N Chandrababu Naidu, in his inaugural address which lasted nearly one and a half hours, said that his party would move a no-confidence motion against the state government and that it was not dragging its feet as claimed by YS Jagan Mohan Reddy.
“We are not hesitating to move the no-confidence motion. We had moved no-confidence motions in the past. From the beginning our stand has been very clear, “ he said in an oblique reference to Jagan Mohan Reddy’s allegation that he was not moving a no-confidence motion only to protect the Kiran Kumar Reddy government.
Later, party leader Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy, on the sidelines of the conclave, made it clear that the party would move the motion on the issue of farmers’ problems during the next session of the Assembly.
Trying to take the sting out of Jagan Mohan Reddy’s professions that the state government was at his mercy, Naidu said, “Why don’t you pull down the government if you have so much strength. Go to the governor and parade the MLAs who are backing you,” he challenged him.
For the first time, the Mahanadu adopted a resolution paying rich tributes to martyrs of both Telangana and Andhra movements. In a bold step Naidu wanted a wide debate on the T-issue.
“The Mahanadu should discuss the T-issue. We have to provide clarity to people on what TDP is doing on the matter,” Naidu said.
The TDP had sent its letter to the Pranab Mukherjee Committee and made its stand clear.
The Congress incorporated Telangana in its common minimum programme, the President made a statement, the Centre constituted the Srikrishna Committee and took the opinions of the people and political parties.
It was now for the Centre to take a decision on the separate state issue, Naidu said.
“People of both the regions supported me all these years. You tell me how I can take sides,” Naidu asked.
Express News Service
Last Updated : 28 May 2011 03:41:41 PM IST
HYDERABAD: The Telugu Desam’s three-day annual conclave Mahanadu, which began here on Friday, sent out a loud warning to the Kiran Kumar Reddy government as well as YS Jagan Mohan Reddy while being more vocal on the Telangana issue without abandoning its two-eye philosophy.
Party chief N Chandrababu Naidu, in his inaugural address which lasted nearly one and a half hours, said that his party would move a no-confidence motion against the state government and that it was not dragging its feet as claimed by YS Jagan Mohan Reddy.
“We are not hesitating to move the no-confidence motion. We had moved no-confidence motions in the past. From the beginning our stand has been very clear, “ he said in an oblique reference to Jagan Mohan Reddy’s allegation that he was not moving a no-confidence motion only to protect the Kiran Kumar Reddy government.
Later, party leader Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy, on the sidelines of the conclave, made it clear that the party would move the motion on the issue of farmers’ problems during the next session of the Assembly.
Trying to take the sting out of Jagan Mohan Reddy’s professions that the state government was at his mercy, Naidu said, “Why don’t you pull down the government if you have so much strength. Go to the governor and parade the MLAs who are backing you,” he challenged him.
For the first time, the Mahanadu adopted a resolution paying rich tributes to martyrs of both Telangana and Andhra movements. In a bold step Naidu wanted a wide debate on the T-issue.
“The Mahanadu should discuss the T-issue. We have to provide clarity to people on what TDP is doing on the matter,” Naidu said.
The TDP had sent its letter to the Pranab Mukherjee Committee and made its stand clear.
The Congress incorporated Telangana in its common minimum programme, the President made a statement, the Centre constituted the Srikrishna Committee and took the opinions of the people and political parties.
It was now for the Centre to take a decision on the separate state issue, Naidu said.
“People of both the regions supported me all these years. You tell me how I can take sides,” Naidu asked.
Hari virtually walks out; NTR junior stays away
VV Balakrishna
Last Updated : 29 May 2011 10:52:51 AM IST
HYDERABAD: On TDP founder NT Rama Rao’s 88th birth anniversary on Saturday the feud between the Nandamuri and Nara families came to the fore once again. This time the party’s Mahanadu became the arena for the open tussle.
It is customary for the party to pay tributes to NTR at the Mahanadu marking the birth anniversary of its founder. But NTR’s son Harikirshna, who used to speak in praise of NTR at every Mahanadu, refused to speak on Saturday. He shared the dais with party chief and brother-in-law N Chandrababu Naidu, cut the cake and shared it among the party leaders but did not address the gathering.
When Harikrsihna refused to address the Mahanadu, Politburo member Yanamala Ramakrishnudu requested him to speak a few words about NTR but the NTR’s son turned down the request. When Ramakrishnudu repeatedly requested Harikrishna to speak, an annoyed Harikrishna showed his finger in a warning gesture to Ramakrishnudu. He remained on the dais for a few minutes more and left the place without speaking to anyone.
Ramakrishnudu tried to explain later: “I tried to pacify Harikrishna. I do not know the reasons for his silence today. Showing his finger is his habit and nothing should be read into it.”
Harikrishna is learnt to be unhappy with the way the Mahanadu is being organised. The large number of flexies of Lokesh overshadowed the cutouts of Harikrishna and NTR Jr which were few in number.
Realising the problem, Naidu told party workers in the evening that display of Lokesh banners by one or two leaders would lead to indiscipline in the party. “When the Chandragiri Assembly segment unit of the party adopted a resolution seeking political entry of Lokesh, I advised them restraint,” Naidu said after Harikrishna virtually walked out of the meeting. “We have a specific agenda. One or two persons bringing forth agenda like demanding Lokesh’s entry into politics is not good,” Naidu said.
Though, Harikrishna refused to speak, his younger brother and popular actor Balakrishna, who has always sided with Naidu, spoke.
Last Updated : 29 May 2011 10:52:51 AM IST
HYDERABAD: On TDP founder NT Rama Rao’s 88th birth anniversary on Saturday the feud between the Nandamuri and Nara families came to the fore once again. This time the party’s Mahanadu became the arena for the open tussle.
It is customary for the party to pay tributes to NTR at the Mahanadu marking the birth anniversary of its founder. But NTR’s son Harikirshna, who used to speak in praise of NTR at every Mahanadu, refused to speak on Saturday. He shared the dais with party chief and brother-in-law N Chandrababu Naidu, cut the cake and shared it among the party leaders but did not address the gathering.
When Harikrsihna refused to address the Mahanadu, Politburo member Yanamala Ramakrishnudu requested him to speak a few words about NTR but the NTR’s son turned down the request. When Ramakrishnudu repeatedly requested Harikrishna to speak, an annoyed Harikrishna showed his finger in a warning gesture to Ramakrishnudu. He remained on the dais for a few minutes more and left the place without speaking to anyone.
Ramakrishnudu tried to explain later: “I tried to pacify Harikrishna. I do not know the reasons for his silence today. Showing his finger is his habit and nothing should be read into it.”
Harikrishna is learnt to be unhappy with the way the Mahanadu is being organised. The large number of flexies of Lokesh overshadowed the cutouts of Harikrishna and NTR Jr which were few in number.
Realising the problem, Naidu told party workers in the evening that display of Lokesh banners by one or two leaders would lead to indiscipline in the party. “When the Chandragiri Assembly segment unit of the party adopted a resolution seeking political entry of Lokesh, I advised them restraint,” Naidu said after Harikrishna virtually walked out of the meeting. “We have a specific agenda. One or two persons bringing forth agenda like demanding Lokesh’s entry into politics is not good,” Naidu said.
Though, Harikrishna refused to speak, his younger brother and popular actor Balakrishna, who has always sided with Naidu, spoke.
Babu revisits NTR to pull off another coup
VV Balakrishna
Express News Service
Last Updated : 30 May 2011 08:21:32 AM IST
HYDERABAD: Delegates at Mahanadu, the TDP’s annual general body meeting, saw a different party chief N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday.
Clad in a sparkling white traditional dhoti and a yellow shirt, the former chief minister was, it seemed, in a mood for an image makeover.
In both words and deeds, he sought to address the twin issues that had dented his credibility over the years -- coup against his father-inlaw NT Rama Rao and his perceived anti-farmer stance.
In doing so, Naidu also sought to pour cold water on NTR’s son Harikrishna’s hopes, if ever there were any, of reclaiming his father’s legacy.
“I had never thought of revolting against NTR. I have saved the party in a democratic manner from an evil force (read Lakshmi Parvati),” he claimed in his valedictory address, breaking his silence on a chapter that had been a source of ammunition for his opponents for long.
It’s also perhaps the first time in almost 16 years that he had spoken at length on the reasons for dethroning his own father-in-law. “I am a great admirer of NTR. I used to conduct political classes in Gandipet along with NTR. Then I was party convenor and general secretary.
I treat NTR as my mentor,” Naidu said.
And as he moved on to those tumultuous days of 1995, he recalled, “when I saved the party, all the 200 MLAs and the rank and file of the party were with me.” Stating that his aim behind the move was to protect the party’s future generations, he suggested that it was due to his efforts that “now we are organising meetings with NTR photos and praising his services.” In an indirect warning to Harikrishna, he made it clear that “family relationships are different from politics.” “I never encourage anyone who seeks favours. I know that family relations are important but, they should not be mixed with politics,” Naidu added.
At the same time, he took care to dispel the impression that he’s grooming his son Lokesh to succeed him. “My wife or son never interfered in politics. We set some principles in the family and are disciplined,” he said and pointed out that he had pulled up party men in Chandragiri for demanding the political arangetram of Lokesh.
The TDP chief also dedicated the Mahanadu to the farmers as he attempted to connect to them.
Express News Service
Last Updated : 30 May 2011 08:21:32 AM IST
HYDERABAD: Delegates at Mahanadu, the TDP’s annual general body meeting, saw a different party chief N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday.
Clad in a sparkling white traditional dhoti and a yellow shirt, the former chief minister was, it seemed, in a mood for an image makeover.
In both words and deeds, he sought to address the twin issues that had dented his credibility over the years -- coup against his father-inlaw NT Rama Rao and his perceived anti-farmer stance.
In doing so, Naidu also sought to pour cold water on NTR’s son Harikrishna’s hopes, if ever there were any, of reclaiming his father’s legacy.
“I had never thought of revolting against NTR. I have saved the party in a democratic manner from an evil force (read Lakshmi Parvati),” he claimed in his valedictory address, breaking his silence on a chapter that had been a source of ammunition for his opponents for long.
It’s also perhaps the first time in almost 16 years that he had spoken at length on the reasons for dethroning his own father-in-law. “I am a great admirer of NTR. I used to conduct political classes in Gandipet along with NTR. Then I was party convenor and general secretary.
I treat NTR as my mentor,” Naidu said.
And as he moved on to those tumultuous days of 1995, he recalled, “when I saved the party, all the 200 MLAs and the rank and file of the party were with me.” Stating that his aim behind the move was to protect the party’s future generations, he suggested that it was due to his efforts that “now we are organising meetings with NTR photos and praising his services.” In an indirect warning to Harikrishna, he made it clear that “family relationships are different from politics.” “I never encourage anyone who seeks favours. I know that family relations are important but, they should not be mixed with politics,” Naidu added.
At the same time, he took care to dispel the impression that he’s grooming his son Lokesh to succeed him. “My wife or son never interfered in politics. We set some principles in the family and are disciplined,” he said and pointed out that he had pulled up party men in Chandragiri for demanding the political arangetram of Lokesh.
The TDP chief also dedicated the Mahanadu to the farmers as he attempted to connect to them.
'Congress incapable of solving Telangana crisis'
Express News Service
Last Updated : 30 May 2011 11:42:58 AM IST
HYDERABAD: “If you are capable of taking a decision, take it. If not, admit it,” Telugu Desam president N Chandrababu Naidu told the Congress high command on the contentious Telangana statehood demand.
“The Congress is in power. If it is capable of clearing the uncertainty in the state, let it do it but why criticise the TDP?” Naidu said while speaking on the last day of the party’s Mahanadu here on Sunday.
Terming Telangana as a sensitive issue, he called upon party workers from the region to give it back if attacked politically by the TRS. He also advised them to explain the actual situation to the thinkers and students from the region. Instead of taking a decision, the Congress was trying to blame the TDP, he alleged.
“The TDP flag sheltered backward classes and weaker sections. When the BJP, Congress and TRS are taking up programmes with their identity and party flags, why not the TDP?” Naidu wondered. The party’s political resolution said that the Congress never stated its stance on Telangana. The late chief minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy too did not provide clarity but created a rift among the regions for his political expediency.
Seconding the political resolution, Telangana Telugu Desam Forum (TTDF) convenor E Dayakar Rao asked TJAC chairman M Kodandaram why he did not question the TRS for obstructing TTDF meetings. “We are fighting for Telangana. Why is the TRS creating obstacles?” he wondered. If TRS chief K Chandrasekhara Rao was sincere, he should question AICC president Sonia Gandhi, Dayakar Rao said.
Dayakar Rao said that they had the blessings of Naidu for taking up T-agitation. “Some leaders like P Keshav are objecting to our fight. But the Andhra TDP leaders too understand our feelings and support us,” Dayakar Rao said. No Andhra leader including Naidu raised any objection to Dayakar Rao’s remarks. While many Telangana delegates clapped in support of Dayakar Rao, those from Andhra and Rayalaseema remained silent. On the demand from some quarters that TDP should make its stand clear on the Telangana issue, Dayakar Rao pointed out that the Politburo had adopted a resolution on the issue long ago. “The party has not withdrawn the resolution. Seeking a fresh resolution from the TDP is nothing but stupidity,” he remarked.
“Let all thinkers, students and other sections of people join TDP’s fight for Telangana. The TDP is capable of securing statehood for the region within a year,” Rao said and asserted that the party would display its flag at all regional meetings.
On the TRS-TDP alliance in 2004, Rao said his party suffered a lot on account of it. “TDP allotted 46 seats to TRS which sold the tickets to Congressmen and defeated the TDP,” he alleged. Opposing alliances with the TRS and the BJP, he said the TDP should sail with the Left.
Last Updated : 30 May 2011 11:42:58 AM IST
HYDERABAD: “If you are capable of taking a decision, take it. If not, admit it,” Telugu Desam president N Chandrababu Naidu told the Congress high command on the contentious Telangana statehood demand.
“The Congress is in power. If it is capable of clearing the uncertainty in the state, let it do it but why criticise the TDP?” Naidu said while speaking on the last day of the party’s Mahanadu here on Sunday.
Terming Telangana as a sensitive issue, he called upon party workers from the region to give it back if attacked politically by the TRS. He also advised them to explain the actual situation to the thinkers and students from the region. Instead of taking a decision, the Congress was trying to blame the TDP, he alleged.
“The TDP flag sheltered backward classes and weaker sections. When the BJP, Congress and TRS are taking up programmes with their identity and party flags, why not the TDP?” Naidu wondered. The party’s political resolution said that the Congress never stated its stance on Telangana. The late chief minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy too did not provide clarity but created a rift among the regions for his political expediency.
Seconding the political resolution, Telangana Telugu Desam Forum (TTDF) convenor E Dayakar Rao asked TJAC chairman M Kodandaram why he did not question the TRS for obstructing TTDF meetings. “We are fighting for Telangana. Why is the TRS creating obstacles?” he wondered. If TRS chief K Chandrasekhara Rao was sincere, he should question AICC president Sonia Gandhi, Dayakar Rao said.
Dayakar Rao said that they had the blessings of Naidu for taking up T-agitation. “Some leaders like P Keshav are objecting to our fight. But the Andhra TDP leaders too understand our feelings and support us,” Dayakar Rao said. No Andhra leader including Naidu raised any objection to Dayakar Rao’s remarks. While many Telangana delegates clapped in support of Dayakar Rao, those from Andhra and Rayalaseema remained silent. On the demand from some quarters that TDP should make its stand clear on the Telangana issue, Dayakar Rao pointed out that the Politburo had adopted a resolution on the issue long ago. “The party has not withdrawn the resolution. Seeking a fresh resolution from the TDP is nothing but stupidity,” he remarked.
“Let all thinkers, students and other sections of people join TDP’s fight for Telangana. The TDP is capable of securing statehood for the region within a year,” Rao said and asserted that the party would display its flag at all regional meetings.
On the TRS-TDP alliance in 2004, Rao said his party suffered a lot on account of it. “TDP allotted 46 seats to TRS which sold the tickets to Congressmen and defeated the TDP,” he alleged. Opposing alliances with the TRS and the BJP, he said the TDP should sail with the Left.
TDP promises budget for agricultural sector
Express News Service
Last Updated : 28 May 2011 11:46:30 AM IST
HYDERABAD: The Telugu Desam, if voted to power, will introduce an exclusive budget for the welfare of farmers. It will also provide nine-hour free power supply to farmers during daytime.
In his wrapping-up remarks after a thorough debate on the farmers’ issue on the first day of Mahanadu on Friday, Naidu demanded that the state government introduce a budget for the farmers. “Agriculture is in doldrums. If the Congress fails to allocate funds in the budget, the TDP will introduce a budget for farmers,” Naidu declared. Naidu demanded implementation of the MS Swaminathan Committee’s recommendations, a minimum support price of Rs 2,033 for paddy besides Rs 200 bonus per a quintal of paddy.
Demanding a change in the agri-insurance policy, Naidu wanted the state and central governments to pay the entire insurance premium on behalf of farmers. The Seed Bill had been pending in Parliament for the last ten years, he said and urged the Centre to have the bill passed immediately to save farmers from spurious seeds. Accusing the Congress government of failing to provide nine-hour free power supply for agriculture, Naidu said a TDP government in future would supply free power for nine hours to farmers during day time.
The Mahanadu also urged the government to introduce a comprehensive water management policy after consulting irrigation experts optimum and effective use of water sources in the state.
The Mahanadu also demanded national status for both the Pranahita-Chevella and Polavaram irrigation projects immediately and wanted a CBI probe into the irregularities in the execution of Jalayagnam. On infrastructure, the TDP demanded repairs of all bad roads. Stating that the power utility was in crisis, the Mahanadu urged the government to strengthen the power sector. It also demanded that the permissions accorded for uranium and atomic power plants be cancelled and recalled that no state had allowed a uranium plant after the Jarkhand plant in 1967. “The Rajasekhara Reddy government had permitted uranium mining in Pulivendula in Kadapa district with an eye on kickbacks,” the Mahanadu alleged.
The party also opposed petroleum refineries along the state’s coast.
Last Updated : 28 May 2011 11:46:30 AM IST
HYDERABAD: The Telugu Desam, if voted to power, will introduce an exclusive budget for the welfare of farmers. It will also provide nine-hour free power supply to farmers during daytime.
In his wrapping-up remarks after a thorough debate on the farmers’ issue on the first day of Mahanadu on Friday, Naidu demanded that the state government introduce a budget for the farmers. “Agriculture is in doldrums. If the Congress fails to allocate funds in the budget, the TDP will introduce a budget for farmers,” Naidu declared. Naidu demanded implementation of the MS Swaminathan Committee’s recommendations, a minimum support price of Rs 2,033 for paddy besides Rs 200 bonus per a quintal of paddy.
Demanding a change in the agri-insurance policy, Naidu wanted the state and central governments to pay the entire insurance premium on behalf of farmers. The Seed Bill had been pending in Parliament for the last ten years, he said and urged the Centre to have the bill passed immediately to save farmers from spurious seeds. Accusing the Congress government of failing to provide nine-hour free power supply for agriculture, Naidu said a TDP government in future would supply free power for nine hours to farmers during day time.
The Mahanadu also urged the government to introduce a comprehensive water management policy after consulting irrigation experts optimum and effective use of water sources in the state.
The Mahanadu also demanded national status for both the Pranahita-Chevella and Polavaram irrigation projects immediately and wanted a CBI probe into the irregularities in the execution of Jalayagnam. On infrastructure, the TDP demanded repairs of all bad roads. Stating that the power utility was in crisis, the Mahanadu urged the government to strengthen the power sector. It also demanded that the permissions accorded for uranium and atomic power plants be cancelled and recalled that no state had allowed a uranium plant after the Jarkhand plant in 1967. “The Rajasekhara Reddy government had permitted uranium mining in Pulivendula in Kadapa district with an eye on kickbacks,” the Mahanadu alleged.
The party also opposed petroleum refineries along the state’s coast.
Will the ‘son’ rise at TDP Mahanadu?
Express News Service
Last Updated : 24 May 2011 10:24:51 AM IST
HYDERABAD: The “son-rise” in the Telugu Desam seems imminent with a chorus building up in the party ahead of the Mahanadu demanding that Nara Lokesh Naidu be entrusted with an important assignment in the party.
According to the grapevine, Lokesh, the only son of party chief Chandrababu Naidu, will contest the state Assembly from the Chandragiri constituency at the next election. Currently, he is looking after the business of Heritage Foods, the family’s concern.
Not surprisingly, no senior leader has raised his voice against the demand for his baptism in politics. They have also not dismissed the speculation that Lokesh will be the party’s candidate from Chandragiri in the next general election.
The Chandragiri Assembly constituency unit of the party has adopted a resolution urging the party president to assign some important task to Lokesh. It suggested that the heir-apparent be drafted into Telugu Yuvatha, the party’s youth wing, or made in-charge of the Chandragiri constituency unit of the party. Rumours are doing the rounds in party circles that the Chittoor district party unit too will adopt a resolution seeking Lokesh’s entry into active politics.
Incidentally, the TDP has no in-charge for the Chandragiri segment unit. Former MLA and Naidu’s brother Ramamurthy Naidu is no longer active in politics. There is also discontent among TDP leaders over the functioning of the Chittoor unit of the party. There are also apprehensions of the YSR Congress storming Kuppam, Naidu’s native constituency. With his father being busy in the state and national politics, Lokesh is expected to strengthen the party in the district.
As of now, Lokesh is not a member of the party. For that matter, Balakrishna and NTR Jr too are not members of the party though they serve as the star campaigners for the party.
Asked about Chandragiri party activists’ demand for Lokesh’s entry into active politics, MLA and Naidu loyalist A Revanth Reddy told Express that every party should respect the wishes of the people. Lokesh’s entry should not, however, be construed as a succession war in the party, he hastened to add. “TDP chief Naidu is physically fit and is the only able leader to run the party. The successor issue comes before the party only after 15 years,” Revanth Reddy clarified. Speaking on a personal note, Revanth said, he would welcome Lokesh’s entry into politics. Whenever asked about his son’s entry into politics, Naidu evaded a direct reply and said that Lokesh was busy with his business activities. Lokesh, an MBA graduate from Stanford University, was actively involved in the electioneering in 2009 elections. He was the poll manager for his father in Kuppam. He stood by his father when the latter undertook an eight-day fast to demand a better deal to farmers. Lokesh too was arrested along with his father, and was mildly injured in the melee took place during the arrests.
In the succession battle for control of the party reins Harikrishna, son of party founder NT Rama Rao, propped up his son and popular film hero NTR Jr recently but was adroitly checkmated by Naidu who proved once again that he is the unquestioned leader of the party.
Last Updated : 24 May 2011 10:24:51 AM IST
HYDERABAD: The “son-rise” in the Telugu Desam seems imminent with a chorus building up in the party ahead of the Mahanadu demanding that Nara Lokesh Naidu be entrusted with an important assignment in the party.
According to the grapevine, Lokesh, the only son of party chief Chandrababu Naidu, will contest the state Assembly from the Chandragiri constituency at the next election. Currently, he is looking after the business of Heritage Foods, the family’s concern.
Not surprisingly, no senior leader has raised his voice against the demand for his baptism in politics. They have also not dismissed the speculation that Lokesh will be the party’s candidate from Chandragiri in the next general election.
The Chandragiri Assembly constituency unit of the party has adopted a resolution urging the party president to assign some important task to Lokesh. It suggested that the heir-apparent be drafted into Telugu Yuvatha, the party’s youth wing, or made in-charge of the Chandragiri constituency unit of the party. Rumours are doing the rounds in party circles that the Chittoor district party unit too will adopt a resolution seeking Lokesh’s entry into active politics.
Incidentally, the TDP has no in-charge for the Chandragiri segment unit. Former MLA and Naidu’s brother Ramamurthy Naidu is no longer active in politics. There is also discontent among TDP leaders over the functioning of the Chittoor unit of the party. There are also apprehensions of the YSR Congress storming Kuppam, Naidu’s native constituency. With his father being busy in the state and national politics, Lokesh is expected to strengthen the party in the district.
As of now, Lokesh is not a member of the party. For that matter, Balakrishna and NTR Jr too are not members of the party though they serve as the star campaigners for the party.
Asked about Chandragiri party activists’ demand for Lokesh’s entry into active politics, MLA and Naidu loyalist A Revanth Reddy told Express that every party should respect the wishes of the people. Lokesh’s entry should not, however, be construed as a succession war in the party, he hastened to add. “TDP chief Naidu is physically fit and is the only able leader to run the party. The successor issue comes before the party only after 15 years,” Revanth Reddy clarified. Speaking on a personal note, Revanth said, he would welcome Lokesh’s entry into politics. Whenever asked about his son’s entry into politics, Naidu evaded a direct reply and said that Lokesh was busy with his business activities. Lokesh, an MBA graduate from Stanford University, was actively involved in the electioneering in 2009 elections. He was the poll manager for his father in Kuppam. He stood by his father when the latter undertook an eight-day fast to demand a better deal to farmers. Lokesh too was arrested along with his father, and was mildly injured in the melee took place during the arrests.
In the succession battle for control of the party reins Harikrishna, son of party founder NT Rama Rao, propped up his son and popular film hero NTR Jr recently but was adroitly checkmated by Naidu who proved once again that he is the unquestioned leader of the party.
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