J LAKSHMANA RAO
VISAKHAPATNAM
The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) is currently facing a crisis in garnering public support, particularly in the North coastal districts. This decline in enthusiasm and public backing has been exacerbated by the arrest of party president N Chandrababu Naidu in connection with the skill development scam, presenting a complex challenge for the party.
Initially, TDP leaders had hoped to navigate Chandrababu Naidu’s legal challenges using legal technicalities and generate sympathy from the public. However, as time has passed, their optimism has waned, and their efforts have proven ineffective. Even the involvement of prominent lawyers from across the country has failed to secure favorable outcomes, both in terms of case withdrawal and bail.
Various protest initiatives launched by the TDP before Chandrababu Naidu’s arrest, including demonstrations, strikes, postcard campaigns, and candlelight vigils, have all struggled to gain traction due to a lack of public cooperation and support. The relay hunger strikes, intended as a sustained form of protest, have also fallen short of their objectives. These strikes commence in the morning and conclude by noon, with participants encountering difficulties in maintaining camp attendance.
TDP leaders have been closely monitoring Chandrababu Naidu’s legal proceedings, holding out hope for a favorable verdict. Nevertheless, given the gravity of the case and the evidence presented by CID officials, Chandrababu Naidu has yet to receive any relief, resulting in a series of setbacks and a growing sense of disillusionment among party members. The absence of public cooperation in organizing support activities for Chandrababu Naidu has further compounded the TDP’s challenges. Even activists have exhibited reluctance to participate in protest events, with some seeking financial incentives to attend.
The ongoing relay camps are progressively difficult to sustain due to adverse court rulings and limited on-the-ground assistance.
Many activists now perceive Chandrababu Naidu’s remand as a result of corruption, as compelling evidence against him has swayed the courts. This perception has deterred activists from participating in protest events, contributing to a gradual decline in party morale and camp attendance. TDP leaders find themselves grappling with the formidable task of mobilizing public support and navigating a series of legal setbacks as Chandrababu Naidu’s legal issues persist.
