The influential son of Chandrababu Naidu emphasises the party’s commitment to addressing unemployment and uplifting marginalised communities in Andhra Pradesh.
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI – Nara Lokesh, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader and the influential son of the party supremo Chandrababu Naidu, asserted on Friday that his party will focus on creating employment opportunities and inspiring the marginalised sections in Andhra Pradesh. Having secured victory in 16 parliamentary seats in Andhra Pradesh and playing a significant role in winning elections for the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), Lokesh highlighted the party’s dedication to providing reservations for Muslims in the state.
In an interview with NDTV, Lokesh stated, “This reservation for Muslims has been ongoing for the past two decades, and we stand by it. We intend to continue this policy.” The TDP leader, aged 41, emphasised that reservation is not for appeasement but for social justice, as individuals from minority communities have the lowest per capita income in the state.
“It is true that minorities are continuously facing hardships, with the lowest per capita income. It is my responsibility as part of the government to uplift them from poverty. Hence, any decision I make is not for appeasement but to alleviate poverty,” Lokesh affirmed.
Furthermore, he added, “If we aim to make our country a developed nation, we cannot leave anyone behind. We should work together towards this goal, and it presents an excellent opportunity for the inclusive identity of the TDP. “
Lokesh has played a significant role in the impressive performance of the party in the assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh. Following Naidu’s arrest, Lokesh took charge of the TDP and embarked on a 4,000-kilometer foot march to reach out to the masses. He expressed concerns over the alleged wrongful detention of his father for 52 days.
“We are victims of vendetta politics. The rule of law should be equally applicable to all in India. There is no place for vendetta politics in India,” he told NDTV.
Lokesh dismissed speculations about the TDP demanding ministerial positions or the speaker’s post in the new cabinet under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. “When it comes to positions, TDP never negotiates; we only negotiate for the state’s finances. We do not demand ministries. Our interest lies in the welfare of the state,” he said.
Lokesh said a strong state builds a strong nation. “We aspire to be part of a $5 trillion economy dream. Our goal is to make Andhra Pradesh alone a trillion-dollar economy,” he said.
By adhering to principles of social justice and prioritising economic growth, Nara Lokesh aims to lead the TDP towards a prosperous future for Andhra Pradesh, resonating with the party’s vision for inclusive development.
