Race for TTD chairman's post heats up

Ruling party insiders say the TD-led NDA alliance government led by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has already finalised the list of its nominees for the TTD board during a recent high-level meeting. "The CM is planning to announce the first list of nominees in the coming weeks," a senior TD leader who attended the closed-door meeting revealed.

Contenders for the TTD trust board chairman and member posts are numerous, with several TD MLAs who missed out on cabinet positions now eyeing these roles. Prominent among the frontrunners is B.R. Naidu, owner of a popular Telugu television channel.

However, emergence of former chief justice of India N.V. Ramana as a strong contender has added an unexpected twist. "Justice Ramana's appointment will bring immense prestige and legal expertise to the leadership in TTD," observed a TD leader. Ramana’s inclusion will help the government navigate legal and administrative challenges facing the trust”.

Beyond the chairman's role, several political leaders of TD, Jana Sena and BJP, apart from industrialists from Telangana, Tamil Nadu and other states, are vying for nomination as TTD trust board members.

Party sources reveal that Chandrababu Naidu has made it clear that there will be no scope for recommendations. But he promised to do justice to all those who have contributed to the party's success.

The sheer number of aspirants has made the task of finalising the list of nominees difficult. "It will be a challenge to balance the claims of various factions and ensure that everyone is adequately rewarded," a TD leader said.

Formation of the TTD trust board is crucial, as the Brahmotsavams of Lord Venkateswara are scheduled to begin on October 4.