📷 Image Credits: The Indian Express
In a pre-swearing-in statement, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has reiterated its commitment to ensuring decisions on key issues like delimitation and the Uniform Civil Code are not unilateral. N Chandrababu Naidu’s son N Lokesh Naidu, a prominent leader of the party, emphasized that the reservation of any community, including the 4 per cent Muslim quota, will not be revoked.
Lokesh underscored TDP’s secular ethos, stating, “TDP has always been and will remain a secular party. No one’s quota would be taken away by us. BJP’s stance that it would remove religion-based quota is if that party comes to power on its own, not when it is a coalition government.” He reassured the community that their reservation is secure and vowed to uphold the interests of socially and economically backward sections, irrespective of religion or caste.
On the contentious issue of delimitation proposed by the BJP for 2026, Lokesh emphasized the importance of inclusive decision-making. He affirmed that TDP will engage in extensive deliberations with stakeholders to address issues like delimitation and the Uniform Civil Code harmoniously. The party aims to achieve consensus on these matters through dialogue and collaboration with all partners.
The TDP’s stance aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s previous statements on delimitation, reiterating that no injustice would be done to the Southern states. Lokesh also highlighted the party’s commitment to fulfilling the promises made in their manifesto, including job creation and attracting investments.
In addition to addressing policy issues, Lokesh raised concerns about potential phone tapping incidents involving the Pegasus spyware during the previous regime. He underscored the need for a thorough investigation to determine the origins and targets of the surveillance, emphasizing transparency and accountability.
Overall, the TDP’s firm stand on critical issues like delimitation and the Muslim quota reflects their dedication to ensuring equal representation and protection of the rights of all communities in the state of Andhra Pradesh.
