Naidu to Attend NDA Meeting in Delhi, Portfolio Decisions Expected Today

TDP leader N Chandrababu Naidu left for New Delhi on Thursday to attend the NDA’s Parliamentary Party meeting on Friday. Discussions will focus on the Lok Sabha Speaker position and Cabinet roles. Naidu, who may take oath as Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister on June 12, might also invite Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the ceremony.

Negotiations are ongoing, with the TDP asking for the Speaker post and five ministerial positions. However, the BJP is hesitant to grant the Speaker post and might offer the Deputy Speaker position, along with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and junior minister roles in Urban Development and Finance.

A senior TDP leader mentioned that talks are still in progress and nothing is finalized. More clarity is expected after Friday's meeting.

If the TDP gets the Deputy Speaker role, Bapatla MP T Krishna Prasad, a retired IPS officer, is a potential choice. If not, Amalapuram MP GM Harish, son of former Lok Sabha Speaker GMC Balayogi, might be considered.

Naidu met with the newly-elected MPs and made some notable comments. He congratulated them and urged all to attend the NDA meeting in New Delhi.

Admitting past criticisms of not prioritizing party matters, Naidu promised a more engaged leadership moving forward. He assured MPs that he will address their issues and emphasized there will be no bureaucratic rule in the state.

Naidu praised party activists for their dedication despite threats from the ruling party and encouraged MPs to use their positions for the state's benefit. He criticized YSRC MPs for focusing on their leader’s legal troubles instead of the state’s needs and urged TDP MPs to work hard in Parliament and with Union Ministries.

Jana Sena Party chief Pawan Kalyan is also expected to attend the NDA meeting