Andhra Pradesh Minister and TDP National General Secretary Nara Lokesh
Andhra Pradesh Minister and TDP National General Secretary Nara Lokesh has cleared the air over allegations that the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) was involved in attempts to sabotage the Narendra Modi-led NDA government, dismissing the claims as “absolutely a rumour”.
Responding to a media query on recurring speculation about an alleged meeting involving his father, a corporate leader and a former Vice President, Lokesh reaffirmed that the TDP’s support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the NDA remains unconditional and said he had personally clarified the issue with the Prime Minister.
Responding to questions about reports of an alleged meeting involving his father, a corporate leader and a former Vice President, Lokesh described the entire episode as a baseless rumour that resurfaces every few months.
“I don’t know why this story keeps repeating again and again. Every three or six months someone writes that TDP is upset or that it is going its own way. There was never such a conversation and there is no reason to be upset. All the doors are open,” he said.
Lokesh revealed that he personally met Prime Minister Narendra Modi to clarify the matter after his name was linked to the rumour. He explained the context of his meeting with the individual concerned and the nature of their conversation.
According to Lokesh, the Prime Minister laughed off the speculation and told him that no one had raised the issue with him. He added that Modi remarked that if anyone did bring it up, he would verify the facts, but advised Lokesh not to stop meeting people because of rumours. “He told me, ‘You’re a politician. Go and meet everyone, even people in Congress. How else will you get feedback?'” Lokesh recalled.
The Andhra Pradesh Minister said he spent nearly 30 minutes with the Prime Minister, who patiently heard his explanation. He described the interaction as open and candid, saying the NDA leadership encourages frank discussions with its allies.
Reaffirming the TDP’s commitment to the NDA, Lokesh said, “Our support to our Prime Minister is unconditional and will continue to be unconditional because we believe he is the right leader at the right place at the right time. India needs political stability and strong leadership.” He also credited the Prime Minister for pursuing reforms that would benefit states such as Andhra Pradesh by accelerating economic growth, creating jobs and helping the country reap its demographic dividend.
Clarifying the controversy further, Lokesh said he had met only one person during the period in question and not both individuals mentioned in the rumours. He attributed the speculation to a coincidence between the timing of that meeting and the emergence of the reports.
Calling the episode “absolutely a rumour”, Lokesh said the Prime Minister appreciated his honesty and encouraged him to continue interacting with people across political and social circles.
“After that, I’ve been meeting pretty much everyone,” he added, reiterating that political engagement should not be constrained by unfounded speculation.
