TDP Faces Mounting Pressure Over MP's Drugs Case
In Vijayawada, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) high command is grappling with intense pressure to take definitive action against Eluru MP Putta Mahesh Kumar Yadav, who was recently caught in a drugs case in Telangana. This situation has sparked growing criticism from the opposition and increased demands from within the party for more stringent measures beyond the initial show-cause notice.
Internal Party Debate and Calls for Stern Action
According to sources, a heated debate erupted within the TDP's strategy group regarding the issue. A majority of members expressed the opinion that the show-cause notice issued to Yadav, who tested positive for drug use, is insufficient. They argue that more decisive steps are necessary to resolve the controversy and maintain party discipline.
The TDP has been facing scrutiny in recent days over the indiscipline of elected representatives involved in various controversies. Yadav's case, involving drugs, has particularly cornered the party leadership, pushing them to address the matter urgently.
Contradiction to Election Stance and Government Policies
Another significant factor driving the demands for action is the TDP's previous stance on drugs. During the elections, the party made drugs a key issue and targeted the YSRCP. After coming to power, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu repeatedly stated that his government would not tolerate drug use in the state. He even formed an elite EAGLE force to combat the menace.
Yadav's episode now presents a moral setback for the TDP. Any lenient approach would contradict the party's public stand and likely attract sharp criticism from opponents and the public alike.
Party Response and Opposition Criticism
Speaking to the media, TDP state president Palla Srinivas Rao explained that the party issued a show-cause notice immediately after learning about the news reports. He emphasized that Yadav has been given five days to respond, and it is reasonable for the party to wait for his reply before deciding on the next course of action.
Meanwhile, former chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy criticized Naidu's inaction, labeling Yadav as the first MP caught taking drugs. Reddy attributed the problem to Naidu's lenient leadership, warning that it did not start with Yadav and will not end with him unless stronger measures are implemented.
The controversy highlights the challenges the TDP faces in balancing internal discipline with political image, as calls for accountability grow louder.
