In a significant political development, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) national working president Nara Lokesh declared that the party would allocate 33 percent of Assembly and Parliament seats to women in the 2029 general elections. This commitment stands irrespective of whether the Women's Reservation Bill is implemented at the national level or not.
Historic Resolution at Mahanadu
Introducing what he termed a "historic resolution" at the party's Mahanadu conclave, Lokesh emphasized that this pledge was not merely a slogan but a responsibility and a promise toward India's future. "We need more women legislators, more women leaders, and more women policymakers. Women will walk shoulder to shoulder in leading the future of TDP. This is our resolve, our responsibility, and our commitment," he stated.
Lokesh's Maiden Speech as Working President
Making his inaugural address as national working president, Lokesh captivated the audience with an aggressive speech. In a strategic move, he aims to leave his imprint on candidate selection, with nearly 30 percent new leaders expected to join his team. The initiative not only empowers women but also introduces fresh faces for Lokesh's next-generation team within TDP.
Criticism of Opposition
Lokesh accused opposition parties of obstructing the women's reservation bill in Parliament and failing to genuinely support women empowerment. He noted that many parties speak about empowerment during elections but forget women after coming to power, whereas TDP has consistently believed in women empowerment both in principle and practice.
Vision for Women Leadership
Stating that the next era of Indian politics should belong to women leadership, Lokesh praised the NDA government for taking a historic step by introducing the Women's Reservation Bill. He argued that women should not remain mere beneficiaries of welfare schemes but should emerge as decision-makers in governance and politics. Highlighting TDP founder N T Rama Rao and Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu as pioneers in women empowerment, Lokesh recalled that NTR introduced equal property rights for women, reservations in local bodies, and established Padmavathi University for women. He added that Naidu later expanded women empowerment through 33 percent reservations in education and employment, DWCRA groups, and welfare initiatives such as the Deepam scheme.
Attack on YSRCP
Lokesh launched a sharp attack on the opposition YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) and its leadership, repeatedly referring to it as "Team-11" instead of the party's earlier slogan "Why Not 175." Challenging YSRCP president Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy to a public debate, Lokesh said, "Fix the date and time. I am ready for a discussion on development and welfare."
Andhra Pradesh's Development
Lokesh stated that Andhra Pradesh is now attracting major investments from global companies and industrial projects. He added that the state is moving ahead with futuristic sectors such as artificial intelligence, quantum technology, and fighter jet manufacturing under Naidu's leadership. In an emotionally charged speech, Lokesh praised TDP cadre for standing by the party during difficult times between 2019 and 2024 and accused the previous YSRCP regime of targeting Backward Classes (BCs), Dalits, and minorities.
Call to Action
He also urged party workers to aggressively counter "fake propaganda" by political opponents and prepare for upcoming local body elections in mission mode.
