The TDP is currently allied with the BJP, and during the election campaign, Prime Minister Narendra Modi promoted the idea of a "double-engine government."
In this context, Chandrababu Naidu might find it easier to persuade the central BJP to stop the privatization of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant. However, public outcry is mounting, placing significant pressure on Naidu to address the issue.
Trade unions have issued strong warnings to the TDP-led coalition, demanding swift action to save the steel plant. They’ve even threatened legal action, citing promises made before the elections that the plant would be protected.
Meanwhile, YCP MP Vijayasai Reddy has intensified the political climate by calling for the resignation of TDP MPs and MLAs over the matter.
In response, Gajuwaka MLA and AP TDP president, Palla Srinivasa Rao, visited protest camps where workers are demonstrating, showing his support.
Palla Srinivasa Rao has firmly stated that he will resign from his MLA post if the steel plant is not saved, vowing to continue fighting for its protection.
Similarly, TDP MP Sribharat also pledged to stand with the workers and oppose any unfavorable decisions from the central government.
However, steel workers remain doubtful of these reassurances. With the central government moving toward privatization, they are demanding strong action from Chandrababu Naidu to secure a definitive guarantee from the central leadership.
Workers stress that there is no time for empty promises, and only bold and decisive action will save the plant. They have also raised concerns about withheld raw materials, fearing it could lead to the plant's closure.
An insider commented, "For Chandrababu Naidu, the Visakha Steel Plant doesn’t seem to be a top priority. His main focus appears to be on Amaravati."
Another remarked, "While it may seem like the BJP is relying on the TDP in Andhra Pradesh, it could be the other way around. Otherwise, Chandrababu would have resolved the issue by now."
Additionally, a key TDP insider mentioned, "I’ve heard that the BJP allied with the TDP on the condition that the latter wouldn’t interfere with the former's decisions. If true, the TDP can do little to stop privatization, other than putting on a show to convince the public that they tried."
As this situation unfolds, all eyes are on Chandrababu Naidu, known for his political maneuvering, to see if he can prevent the privatization of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant.