It seems that Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has decided to take a tough stance against certain party MLAs who have become a source of trouble and are tarnishing the party's image with their actions in their respective constituencies.
One such MLA is Kolikapudi Srinivasa Rao, representing the Tiruvuru Assembly constituency in Krishna district.
Kolikapudi, a first-time MLA who gained prominence for his active involvement in the Amaravati farmers’ agitation, has been causing issues for the party due to his controversial statements and actions.
Complaints against Kolikapudi’s high-handed behavior surfaced during the election campaign itself. Recent incidents, including a sarpanch's wife's suicide attempt, allegations of inappropriate behavior toward women, and threats against journalists and farmers, have severely damaged the party’s reputation in Tiruvuru.
A few days ago, several journalists met with Naidu to voice their grievances against Kolikapudi. In addition, the MLA has been organizing rallies in his constituency, creating tension. Even local TDP leaders are opposing him.
After receiving detailed feedback on Kolikapudi’s conduct, Naidu has reportedly decided to sideline him in the constituency.
Sources suggest that the TDP chief has chosen to appoint senior leader S. Devadutt as the new party in-charge for Tiruvuru, replacing Kolikapudi. If this move happens, it will mark the first time a separate party in-charge has been appointed for a constituency represented by an MLA.
In a press conference, Devadutt announced that he would be available to party cadres from next week and would take over all party affairs in the constituency.
This clearly indicates that Naidu is encouraging alternative leadership in Tiruvuru and sidelining Kolikapudi.
“He plans to adopt a similar strategy in other constituencies where sitting TDP MLAs have become a burden to the party,” sources said.
