Special Status to AP: Will Modi listen to Chandrababu or Jayalalithaa?

The TDP Government in Andhra Pradesh is stuck in an unusual situation over the continued uncertainty over the Special Status issue. The Opposition parties in AP have stepped up attack on the State Government to mount pressure on the Central government to accord the special category status to the residuary Andhra state.

The ongoing demand has gained political momentum after Congress worker Muni Koti's self-immolation in Tirupati. With the pressure mounting on Chandrababu from all corners, he has sought an appointment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the issue and other promises made to the state during bifurcation last year. But the TDP leaders claim that Tamil Nadu chief minister Jayalalithaa has been opposing special status fearing all industries in Tamil Nadu will relocate to Andhra Pradesh to enjoy the benefits of special status privileges.

Now, the million dollar question is who will convince Modi- Will it be Chandrababu Naidu or Jayalalithaa? The TDP, is a key ally of the BJP and BJP leaders are in the state cabinet and the TDP leaders are in Central Government. Chandrababu's TDP shares power with Bharatiya Janata Party at Centre and in AP. On the other hand, AIADMK is on friendly terms with BJP at the national level and Jayalalithaa shares cordial ties with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It remains to be seen Whose demands will be met? Will Modi pay heed to Chandrababu's demands?

By G Anjali