Chandrababu Naidu appears to be a spent force in politics, struggling to assert his authority even within his own party, among allies, cadres, and government officers.
This is particularly surprising, as no former Chief Minister has ever found themselves in such a precarious position.
Once celebrated as one of the most powerful leaders in Indian politics, with decades of experience and a reputation as the "Hi-Tech CM" and "Modern Age Chanakya," it is shocking to see Chandrababu Naidu unable to command control over his own people.
We have seen Pawan Kalyan, the Deputy Chief Minister, openly criticizing the Home Ministry, the police department, and various ministries—indirectly targeting Chandrababu Naidu.
Yet, Babu remains silent, making no visible effort to address or rein in Pawan Kalyan, his ally in the government.
It is an open secret that Lokesh, Chandrababu’s son, is reportedly not adhering to his father’s advice on many issues, instead making independent decisions about party affairs.
Insiders suggest that, in practice, the reins of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) are now in Lokesh’s hands rather than Chandrababu’s.
The challenges don’t end there. Even officers seem to be disregarding Chandrababu Naidu’s authority.
A recent incident involving TTD Chairman B.R. Naidu and Executive Officer Shyamala Rao highlights this growing disregard.
In a private meeting, Shyamala Rao reportedly spoke rudely to B.R. Naidu in Chandrababu’s presence. This occurred after Chandrababu had reprimanded Shyamala Rao earlier in front of others, which may have hurt the officer’s pride.
For Shyamala Rao to raise his voice against the Chairman in the Chief Minister’s presence underscores the lack of control Chandrababu now wields over his administration.
Moreover, rumors suggest that many police officers and bureaucrats believe Chandrababu is trying to involve them in questionable activities for which they might later be held accountable.
This has led to a loss of trust, public respect, and self-confidence among these officials. As a result, many are reportedly acting independently, guided by their conscience rather than Chandrababu’s directives.
The growing mistrust between Chandrababu Naidu and his officers seems to be at the heart of these embarrassing situations.
His inability to bridge this gap is contributing to an erosion of his influence and authority, both within the government and among his own party members.
