Former Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu’s Return Sparks Celebrations in Andhra Pradesh
Supporters of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and admirers of former Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu erupted in joy as their leader was released on bail after 53 days of detention. Scenes of celebrations flooded the streets of Andhra Pradesh, especially on channels seen as pro-Naidu.
Naidu’s road journey from Rajahmundry Central Jail to his home in Guntur’s Undavalli was accompanied by large crowds eager to catch a glimpse of their leader and show their support. While some may dismiss this display as political optics, it highlights the TDP’s well-organized cadre and their commitment to their leader, particularly ahead of the state election in six months.
However, Naidu is well aware that his conditional interim bail on medical grounds is only temporary. He has been given four weeks to surrender to the jail superintendent before November 28. Furthermore, he faces the threat of three more corruption cases, including the Fibrenet case, Inner Ring Road case, and the latest liquor license case, in which he has been named as an accused.
Despite these challenges, Naidu’s extensive political experience positions him as a master of political survival. From his early days in student politics to becoming the Chief Minister of a bifurcated state in 2014, Naidu has weathered many ups and downs in his career.
Taking advantage of his release, Naidu delivered a politically loaded speech to his supporters, carefully avoiding any legal controversy. He emphasized his integrity and claimed to be respected and loved by the people for his work. Naidu also highlighted his wide network of political allies, including the Jana Sena, BJP, BRS, CPI, and even the Congress, suggesting that his political options remain open.
With the elections approaching, Naidu aims to keep his party workers motivated and confident of victory. In his absence, his wife Bhuvaneswari and daughter-in-law Brahmani have taken on more prominent roles within the party to keep its political activity buzzing.
The TDP has also adopted strategies similar to the YSR Congress Party’s “Odarpu Yatra” to mobilize support and appeal to personal emotions. Naidu’s wife’s “Nijam Gelavali” campaign aims to console families affected by his imprisonment, creating a deeper connection between the people and the party.
Naidu is expected to undergo cataract surgery in Hyderabad, away from the prying eyes of the intelligence establishment in Andhra Pradesh. This time will allow him to focus on his goals for the 2024 assembly and parliament elections in the state.
