The controversy surrounding singer Mangli has intensified the tensions within the Telugu Desam Party (TDP). The party members are increasingly frustrated. Mangli, who had supported former Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy and the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) during the last elections, is now getting notable recognition from TDP leaders. This has not gone well with the TDP cadre, who are questioning Central Minister Rammohan Naidu’s role in this matter. His recent decisions, particularly the appointment of a personal secretary, have only further fueled their discontent, making the Mangli issue a hot topic among TDP supporters.
Mangli’s Support for YSRCP and Her Stand on TDP
During the 2019 elections, Mangli openly campaigned for the YSRCP, performing songs in support of the party and urging voters to back the YSRCP’s fan symbol. As a result, the Jagan government appointed her as an advisor to SVBC, a channel run by TTD. However, when TDP leaders approached Mangli to sing for their campaign in the following election, she reportedly refused, stating that she could not even bring herself to say Chandrababu Naidu’s name. This refusal has added to the unease within the TDP ranks.
Escalation of Controversy: Special Protocol Visit for Mangli
The situation escalated recently when Rammohan Naidu arranged a special protocol visit for Mangli at the Arasavalli Temple during Ratha Saptami. The two were photographed together, and the images quickly went viral on social media. This has further raised as much discontent among the supporters of TDP, questioning why someone who had supported YSRCP and also distanced herself from TDP publicly was given such privilege.
Raising further questions is Rammohan Naidu’s decision to appoint Srikesh Balaji as his personal secretary.
Further fueling the controversy, TDP members have also expressed dissatisfaction with Rammohan Naidu’s decision to appoint former Srikakulam Collector Srikesh Balaji as his personal secretary. Balaji had previously been criticized for his treatment of TDP workers, which has made his appointment highly contentious within the party.
TDP Supporters Demand Leadership Intervention
These recent events have left many TDP loyalists frustrated, with a growing sense that the party is prioritizing individuals who have been opposed to its cause. Supporters are calling on the party leadership to step in and address the concerns of the cadre. Despite the mounting pressure, neither Rammohan Naidu nor Mangli has issued any official statements regarding the controversy.
Rising Discontent Within TDP Over Mangli’s Special Treatment
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the TDP leadership will respond to the growing unrest among its supporters. The party is at a critical juncture, with tensions running high over decisions that seem to favor individuals who have not been aligned with TDP’s core values. The Mangli issue, in particular, highlights the growing divide within the party and the concerns of loyal supporters who feel sidelined.