Naidu asks TDP cadre to better 2024 strike rate in local body polls

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) organisation to begin preparations for the upcoming local body elections, setting a target of improving upon the strike rate achieved in the 2024 Assembly polls.

Speaking to Ministers and party zonal observers at his camp office following a Cabinet meeting on Thursday, Mr. Naidu described the local body elections as a chance to assess the party's organisational strength. He noted that this will be the first time the TDP will contest these polls alongside its alliance partners, the BJP and the Jana Sena Party.

The Chief Minister cautioned leaders against developing differences with alliance partners, warning that any visible friction would be exploited by the YSR Congress Party. He stressed that there should be no squabbling under any circumstances.

Mr. Naidu called for a candidate mix that blends experienced leaders with fresh faces. He also urged party workers to carry out door-to-door campaigns at the village level to highlight the achievements of the coalition government.

Observing that the government's performance has received a positive public response, Mr. Naidu said this momentum should not be squandered. He indicated that youth and women would receive due priority in candidate selection, which would be based on performance and acceptance within the party.

Reiterating the TDP's position, Mr. Naidu affirmed the party's commitment to providing 34% reservation for Backward Classes in the local body elections, in accordance with the 1995 Act.

Among those present at the meeting were IT Minister and TDP National Working President Nara Lokesh and State party president Palla Srinivasa Rao.