TDP Leader Blasts YCP Over Religious Disrespect
Nara Lokesh, a top leader of the TDP party, reacted with strong anger against Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy. He accused Jagan of directing disrespectful actions towards Hindu religious sentiments during a recent government meeting.
What Sparked the Controversy?
During discussions about a dairy project in the Legislative Council, members of Jagan’s YCP party tried to pass a resolution. When the council chairman rejected it, YCP members protested in a controversial way. They held up pictures of Lord Venkateswara (known as Srivari) while wearing shoes and sandals—a serious offense in Hindu tradition where deities are treated with reverence, often barefoot.
The Disrespectful Protest
Video footage showed YCP members shouting slogans and waving the sacred portraits at the chairman’s podium while wearing footwear. After the meeting ended, they reportedly left the pictures lying on the floor alongside shoes, deepening the insult according to Hindu customs.
Lokesh’s Fierce Criticism
Minister Lokesh didn’t hold back, calling Jagan’s actions “an unforgivable sin.” He stated, “Jagan has no devotion or fear of God. He shows zero respect for Hindu feelings.” Lokesh directly blamed Jagan, claiming the protest was planned under his orders to distract from other political issues.
A Sin to Cover Another Sin?
Lokesh suggested the protest was a desperate move to hide bigger mistakes by Jagan’s government. “You committed a great sin to cover up your failures!” he declared, warning Jagan not to associate with Lord Venkateswara after such disrespect.
Public Reaction and Next Steps
Other ministers and alliance partners in the assembly condemned the incident, agreeing it hurt religious sentiments. Lokesh shared videos of the protest on his social media, urging people to see the disrespect for themselves. The incident has intensified political tensions in Andhra Pradesh.
