The attempted suicide of Velpula Venkatesh, Vice-President of the iTDP Committee for the Rajampet Parliamentary constituency, has placed the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leadership in an awkward and embarrassing position.
This incident contrasts sharply with the party’s long-standing claim of prioritizing the welfare of its grassroots workers.
Venkatesh posted a selfie video before the attempt, expressing deep distress over being neglected by the party.
In the emotional clip, he said: "Lokesh anna, I pray you help my family. I’ve suffered a lot trusting the party. I faced humiliation and financial trouble. I’m happy the party is back in power, but I can’t bear this anymore. I’m taking a break."
A native of Neerugattupalle in Annamayya district, Venkatesh had recently applied for a subsidized loan. According to his friends, he received no support from local leaders despite his efforts.
On Thursday morning, Venkatesh attempted to hang himself at his home. Family members discovered him in time and rushed him to a hospital, where his condition is said to be critical.
Sources close to the family revealed that Venkatesh had previously met TDP general secretary and current state minister Nara Lokesh, along with his wife and children, to explain their financial hardships. Despite receiving verbal assurances, his situation remained unchanged.
Shaken by the incident, Lokesh responded on X (formerly Twitter), stating: "Venkatesh’s suicide attempt has deeply disturbed me. I plead with all our workers — please don’t resort to such extreme measures. I’m always just a message away. We’ll set up a grievance cell for party workers. ITDP will cover all his medical expenses, and I personally take responsibility for the welfare of his family."
In a show of support, TDP district president Jaganmohan Raju and MLA Shajahan Basha visited the hospital and extended financial assistance of ₹50,000 to the family, along with a promise to cover all medical costs.
