A series of decisions made by Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu appear to be sparking discontent among party cadres and supporters, many of whom have taken to social media to voice their criticism.
Take, for example, his recent announcement to provide free power supply not only to power looms but also to households of the weaving community.
While the move to supply free electricity to power looms was largely welcomed, the extension of this benefit to weavers’ homes has drawn criticism from within the party.
According to a TDP activist, the decision could trigger similar demands from other Backward Class (BC) communities, and if Naidu fails to offer them the same benefit, it could alienate those groups ahead of the next elections.
“The weaver community accounts for around four to five lakh votes, but the total BC vote bank is estimated to be over one crore. If free electricity is extended only to weavers and others are ignored, it could backfire politically,” the activist said.
“Naidu needs to understand basic human psychology,” a political analyst noted. “People may not mind if the government doesn’t offer them any sops, but if it extends benefits to one section while ignoring others, it creates resentment and can prove counterproductive.”
The analyst further pointed out that even if Naidu provides free electricity to weavers' households, the political gain may be marginal.
“Currently, the TDP may already have 65% of the weaver vote, with the remaining 35% going to the opposition. At best, this promise might gain an additional 5%, which translates to just 25,000 votes. However, it risks upsetting 30 to 40 lakh BC voters, which could be a much bigger political setback.”
Another source of dissatisfaction stems from Naidu’s outreach to YSRCP supporters.
Recently, a known supporter of the YSR Congress Party reportedly received financial assistance from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund, which stirred unrest among loyal TDP workers.
“They helped a staunch YSRCP supporter, and the move backfired. Nearly 100 TDP workers in the area were angered by this and turned against the party,” a local TDP supporter pointed out.
