TPN , Amaravati – The political climate in Andhra Pradesh has intensified following former Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy’s unexpected cancellation of his trip to the Tirumala temple. Jagan’s comments linking the cancellation to the treatment of Dalits have sparked outrage, particularly from current Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu.
During a press conference, Jagan questioned the implications of preventing a former Chief Minister from visiting the revered temple, suggesting that such actions could affect Dalit communities. This remark did not sit well with Naidu, who responded vehemently, stating, “Why are you dragging Dalits into this?”
Naidu firmly rejected the notion that Dalits face any restrictions when it comes to accessing the Tirumala temple. “Who said that Dalits will not be allowed to enter the temple? This is just mudslinging by Jagan,” he asserted, emphasizing that such claims are unfounded and damaging.
He accused Jagan of using the situation to deflect from his own reluctance to visit the temple, asserting, “He doesn’t want to go to Tirumala… if he goes, he has to sign… but now he can’t do violence.” Naidu insisted that the choice of visiting the temple rests solely with Jagan and that dragging Dalits into the narrative is unnecessary.
Naidu also clarified that the Police Act 30 is in force in the district, refuting Jagan’s claims about being served notices regarding his visit. “Did anyone come and tell you that they will not let you go to Venkateswara Swamy Temple?” he asked, urging the public to question the validity of such statements.
As the political discourse continues, the cancellation of Jagan’s trip and the subsequent fallout highlight ongoing tensions in Andhra Pradesh’s political landscape.