Telugu Desam Party president and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu’s decision to admit former YSR Congress Party leader Majji Srinivasa Rao, popularly known as Chinna Srinu, into the TDP has raised eyebrows in political circles.
Chinna Srinu, the nephew of senior YSRCP leader Botsa Satyanarayana and a former chairman of the Vizianagaram Zilla Parishad, was considered a key YSRCP leader in North Andhra.
He joined the TDP in the presence of Naidu on Tuesday evening, with the Chief Minister personally welcoming him into the party by draping a TDP scarf around his shoulders.
The move has triggered quiet discussion within sections of the TDP because Chinna Srinu’s name has reportedly figured in allegations related to liquor transportation contracts, which have also come under vigilance scrutiny.
According to allegations that surfaced during vigilance inquiries, liquor transport contracts and sub-contracts in parts of North Andhra during the YSRCP regime were allegedly awarded to companies said to be linked to Chinna Srinu through benami arrangements. The matter is reportedly still under investigation.
Against this backdrop, Naidu’s decision to induct him into the TDP has led some party leaders to question how the ongoing cases and inquiries involving him would proceed after his political shift.
Interestingly, Chinna Srinu had also been highly critical of Naidu and his son, Education Minister Nara Lokesh. Until recently, he had participated in protests demanding Lokesh’s resignation over alleged irregularities in the DSC recruitment process.
Despite that, he has now been welcomed into the TDP, reportedly causing some unease among sections of the party cadre in North Andhra.
“The party is still strong in the region, and admitting leaders facing allegations from the YSRCP could demoralise workers and create the impression that the party lacks confidence in winning without such leaders,” a TDP source said.
Another concern being discussed within the party relates to the broader impact on ongoing liquor-related investigations.
Some leaders are reportedly asking whether cases involving other accused persons could also lose momentum if those who join the ruling party receive political protection.
There is also speculation in political circles that the move could have wider local implications, particularly in the Bhogapuram area.
Some within the TDP believe Chinna Srinu could prove politically useful in future matters related to local influence and land interests.
At the same time, allegations have circulated in political circles regarding large tracts of land in and around Bhogapuram being acquired through benami arrangements on behalf of persons linked to influential political interests. These claims remain allegations and require independent verification.
Critics are questioning whether political considerations are being given priority over accountability, while TDP supporters may view Chinna Srinu’s induction as part of a broader strategy to strengthen the party’s position in North Andhra.
