If reports from New Delhi are accurate, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reportedly offered a governor’s post to the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), now a trusted ally of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
According to these reports, the BJP national leadership, currently reviewing gubernatorial appointments across the country, extended the offer to the TDP.
TDP president and former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has reportedly accepted the proposal and is now deliberating on a suitable nominee for the position.
Sources indicate that Naidu is considering three senior TDP leaders for the role.
The first is former Union Minister P. Ashok Gajapathi Raju, a veteran leader instrumental in the party’s growth.
The second is Yanamala Ramakrishnudu, a former Assembly Speaker and ex-minister known for his political acumen and intellectual stature within the party.
The third contender is Varla Ramaiah, a loyal Dalit leader who, despite being considered for a Rajya Sabha seat multiple times, has yet to secure the position.
Insiders suggest that Naidu may favor either Ashok Gajapathi Raju or Yanamala due to their extensive experience and the fact that both have stepped away from electoral politics, making room for the next generation.
"However, if Naidu feels appointing a Dalit leader as governor could provide political leverage, Varla Ramaiah might be chosen," sources added.
They also speculated that Ramaiah could instead be a strong candidate for a Rajya Sabha seat in 2026, given his relative youth and political potential.