Srikakulam got top priority in the reorganisation of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) with the appointment of former Home Minister and Etcherla MLA Kimidi Kala Venkata Rao as president of the AP wing of the party. This also gave clear indication that the party recognised loyalty and experience.
Former Speaker Pratibha Bharati, who was made MLC recently, got a place in the politburo. Srikakulam MP Kinjarapu Rammohan was named the official spokesperson.
Mr. Kala Venkata Rao has been in the TDP since 1983, barring his brief stint in the Praja Rajyam Party. He earned the top post with the reported support of Nara Lokesh, who was apparently impressed with the former’s role in the enrolment of 50 lakh workers in the party. He had previously held important portfolios such as Home, Municipal Administration and Commercial Taxes. He was also a Rajya Sabha member and Chairman of the TTD. Mr. Kala Venkata Rao’s elevation is expected to consolidate the vote bank among the Kapu community.
“He has been in active politics for the last 35 years and has good contacts with leaders from all districts, apart from the Telangana region. So, he will prove his mettle as president of the TDP’s AP wing,” said P.V. Ramana, State vice-president of the party.
Meanwhile, the party celebrated his elevation at 7 Road Junction by distributing sweets. TDP MLA from Srikakulam Gunda Lakshmi Devi and senior leaders Gumma Nagaraju and Chitti Nagabhusanam said it was a recognition for the entire district.
Meanwhile, welcoming Venkata Rao’s appointment, TDP district president Gowthu Sirisha said it had proved that the party would always recognise leaders from the backward classes and their contribution to the State. “I am sure the TDP will get strengthened with Mr. Venkata Rao support,” she added.
