Tirupati has become the latest battleground for political control, as Nara Lokesh enforces the Red Book rules in a way that benefits the TDP cadre while sidelining even alliance partners. During his visit to Tirupati on February 20, 2025, internal sources revealed that Lokesh issued direct instructions to authorities, ensuring that the administration aligns with TDP leaders’ interests.
While these actions are being justified as an effort to strengthen the party’s organizational structure, concerns are mounting that the selective enforcement of Red Book rules is being used to suppress political opposition and even coalition partners.
Selective Application of Red Book Rules: A Favor to TDP Loyalists?
Under Lokesh’s influence, the Red Book rules seem to be selectively applied. If alliance partners fail to follow TDP’s directives, they too face political isolation.
One clear example emerged in Tirupati, where local TDP leaders filed complaints, and Lokesh personally instructed the Tirupati Commissioner to ensure that all contract works go only to TDP-affiliated individuals. This directive completely ignored the local Jana Sena MLA, Srinivas, sidelining an elected representative from an alliance party. Instead of ensuring fair governance, the Red Book rules appear to be a tool for strengthening TDP’s hold over the administration.
Tirupati Mayor Insulted: Political Domination Over Local Governance?
The Tirupati Mayor recently faced disrespect when the Town Planning Officer and the DCP dismissed her requests. When she objected and demanded action from the Commissioner, her plea was ignored. Frustrated with this biased treatment, she and other corporators walked out of a council meeting in protest.
This incident highlights how even elected representatives within the system are being sidelined if they are not in sync with Lokesh’s and TDP’s growing power structure.
Alliance in Silence: Has the Government Surrendered to Lokesh?
Despite the increasing grip of Lokesh over administrative decisions, the state government remains silent. This raises a crucial question:
👉 Has the government completely surrendered control to Lokesh?
👉 Or is this a deliberate move to allow TDP to strengthen its hold on the system?
As Lokesh dictates terms, is this the future of Andhra Pradesh’s governance? Will alliance partners remain silent, or will they question this growing political control?
