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TDP Chief meets President Kovind; reiterates need for Prez rule in AP

Amidst the drugs hullabaloo and vandalism on Telugu Desam Party (TDP) offices, TDP Chief N. Chandrababu Naidu TDP chief N met President Ram Nath Kovind earlier this week and demanded that President’s Rule be imposed in Andhra Pradesh as “state-sponsored terror has reached unimaginable heights threatening democracy, institutions and very fabric of the state.”

He demanded CBI investigation into alleged criminal networks linked to the extensive drug-hub operating in the state as well as against the series of attacks on Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leaders and offices on October 19. 

Naidu also sought recall of the Director General of Police (DGP) of Andhra Pradesh in view of alleged collusion with the ruling-YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) and eschewing his constitutional duties and responsibilities.

“Unfortunately, the people of the state are facing daily threats to their constitutionally mandated rights… state-sponsored terror has reached an unimaginable level of heights threatening democracy, institutions and the very fabric of the state,” he said in a representation made to the president.

If the Centre remains silent towards the YSRCP-ruled state government which is continuously violating the constitution, then “there is every possibility of planting seeds for the disintegration of the nation,” he said, adding that the current situation makes for an apt case for the invocation of Article 356.

“As you are well aware, Article 356 is not something to be imposed in a cavalier fashion. The TDP itself does not condone its imposition except in grave circumstances. We strongly urge you to see the current situation in AP,” he informed the President. 

Seeking the president’s intervention to curb the spread of drug use from Andhra Pradesh to the rest of India, Naidu said ganja worth Rs. 8,000 crore is being cultivated in around 2,500 acres in the state and sought action. Additionally, nearly 3,000 kg of heroin was seized at Mundra port on September 15 this year. 

Recently on October 21, a cache of 3 kg of pseudoephedrine was seized by Bengaluru police and the force traced the drug’s origin to Narasapuram of West Godavari, he said, adding that it is evident that AP has emerged as a drug-hub crossing state and national boundaries.

“The future of the state’s youth, both in the state and nation, is at great risk if this spread is left unchecked. This illicit trade serves as a significant revenue stream for anti-social elements,” he elaborated. 

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Tejaswini Pagadala

Communications Consultant: TEJASWINI PAGADALA is an independent communications consultant. She has previously worked with the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister’s Office as the Communications Officer where she has written English speeches for the CM, managed English media communication from the CMO and handled social media accounts of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and the Government.
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