In recent days, there has been growing demand within the Telugu Desam Party for party president and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu to elevate his son, State IT Minister Nara Lokesh, to the position of Deputy Chief Minister.
Recently, TDP leader Mahasena Rajesh voiced this demand, arguing that Naidu should promote Lokesh to counter the aggressive and independent stance of Jana Sena Party president Pawan Kalyan, who is currently the sole Deputy Chief Minister.
The demand was reiterated during a public meeting on Saturday in Mydukuru, Kadapa district, addressed by Naidu.
TDP Politburo member Srinivasa Reddy proposed Lokesh’s elevation, citing his significant contributions to the party and the government.
Reddy highlighted Lokesh’s efforts in attracting IT and industrial projects to Andhra Pradesh and his role in the state’s development.
He argued that promoting Lokesh would secure the party’s future and inspire younger generations.
Interestingly, Naidu did not stop Srinivasa Reddy from raising the proposal. However, he remained silent on the matter and proceeded with his routine speech, sparking speculation in political circles.
Observers are now questioning whether Naidu is subtly encouraging party leaders to bring up this demand publicly, potentially paving the way for Lokesh’s promotion in the near future.
Despite the speculation, senior party leaders believe Naidu may not entertain the idea immediately, as it could create tensions within the coalition.
“He might wait until Pawan Kalyan moves to the Centre as a Rajya Sabha member and joins the Union cabinet,” a source suggested.
There is also talk that Naidu might first appoint Lokesh as the TDP working president, entrusting him with the party’s leadership rather than additional responsibilities in the government.
Either way, sources indicate that Lokesh is expected to be the heir apparent to Naidu by the 2029 elections.
