CHANDRABABU NAIDU’S 30-YEAR MILESTONE AS CM SENDS RIPPLE
NEW DELHI: Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has completed three decades in power, a political milestone that has triggered unease in the power corridors of New Delhi. What was intended as a celebratory moment for the TDP is being closely watched in the national capital, as it comes at a time when the Modi government is battling both internal discord and external challenges.
The timing of the TDP’s celebrations could not have been more politically significant. The Modi government is already facing a tough test in the upcoming Bihar assembly polls, while the Vice-Presidential election has emerged as an unexpected challenge. Against this backdrop, Naidu’s assertive positioning has raised speculation about his next political move.
According to political observers, the fault line lies in the recently introduced 130th Constitution Amendment Bill, popularly described as the “credibility bill.” Sources within the TDP suggest that Naidu is far from happy with the move, and the unease has percolated down to his MPs. Many in Andhra Pradesh see the bill as an instrument of pressure by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to tighten control over Naidu’s independent streak.
Senior managers in Naidu’s camp have reportedly conveyed that the TDP chief views the current fluid political environment as a rare opening. With the BJP grappling with dissent within its ranks and the NDA showing visible cracks, the possibility of a reconfiguration of alliances cannot be ruled out.
“If the situation tilts, Naidu could emerge as a consensus face for a broader coalition,” a source close to the TDP remarked, hinting at his long-nurtured national ambitions.
Political analysts also point to Naidu’s track record of playing kingmaker in Delhi. Having weathered multiple political storms over three decades, Naidu has cultivated a reputation as both a strategist and a survivor. His ability to maneuver between regional interests and national compulsions has often made him indispensable during moments of coalition churn.
As the TDP basks in the glory of its leader’s 30-year milestone, the celebrations may well mark the beginning of a new phase in Naidu’s national journey. For the Modi government, already navigating turbulent waters, the signals from Amaravati could be yet another challenge looming on the horizon.
