Questions are being raised about how the ruling coalition in Andhra Pradesh is being run. It appears the government is looking less like a partnership and more like a single-party system.
The focus is on Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu. At important events such as investment meetings, international forums like Davos, foreign visits, and frequent trips to Delhi, his son Lokesh is often seen alongside him. These events help build image and influence.
However, leaders from coalition partners are rarely present at these occasions. Even the Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan is not seen.
Leaders from the Jana Sena Party, including Pawan Kalyan and senior leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party are mostly missing from these high-profile events.
Apart from four minister posts given to allies, the government does not function like a true coalition. Instead, it appears to operate mainly as a Telugu Desam Party government.
This imbalance becomes clearer during political tensions. When the YSRCP launches verbal attacks or street protests, Jana Sena and BJP leaders and workers are expected to respond.
They lead protests and face public anger, while key power and visibility stay with the main ruling party's father-son duo.
Another major concern is power sharing. As per earlier understandings, Jana Sena was to get 30 percent share and the BJP 10 percent share in governance. But this agreement has not been followed at any level in the state.
It is needless to say that such unequal treatment can weaken trust within the alliance. A coalition works only when all partners are treated fairly.
If these concerns are not addressed, the unity and stability of the ruling coalition in Andhra Pradesh could be at risk.