The recent episode of Narasaraopet MLA Chadalavada Aravinda Babu receiving a reprimand from TDP president and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu for demanding the recruitment of his followers in IML depots has highlighted a growing concern among TDP MLAs - their diminishing influence in their own constituencies.
According to party sources, a strong sense of discontent is brewing among TDP legislators.
Many MLAs feel sidelined, as the Naidu government has vested key decision-making powers in bureaucrats, leaving them with little control over constituency-level affairs.
Several MLAs have reportedly voiced their frustrations within the party, stating that they struggle to get work done for their followers and party workers.
They claim that district collectors and senior officials refuse to entertain their requests unless they come directly from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).
Aravinda Babu, a well-regarded doctor and soft-spoken leader, recently approached the district collector, requesting the replacement of outsourced employees at a local liquor depot with TDP-affiliated workers. However, the collector refused, stating that such decisions must come exclusively from the CMO.
Frustrated, the MLA barged into the Excise Commissioner’s office, creating a scene—an act that drew sharp criticism from Naidu.
But Aravinda Babu is not alone. Many MLAs are expressing their dissatisfaction, stating that they cannot even get minor tasks done for their party workers, making them question their actual role in governance.
Interestingly, even ministers are facing similar challenges. Some have privately complained that even appointing personal assistants (PAs) and public relations officers (PROs) requires approval from the CMO.
They claim they are being forced to appoint individuals recommended by party leadership, rather than selecting their own staff.
Reports suggest that the TDP leadership is actively monitoring the selection of PROs for ministers, with social media teams reviewing candidates’ past affiliations and interactions with the previous YSRCP government before granting approval.
Naidu has reportedly issued stern warnings to several MLAs, stating that he is closely monitoring their actions and receiving regular performance reports.
This has created anxiety among many legislators, who fear the impact of these so-called "performance surveys" on their political futures.