New AG for Andhra Pradesh Soon? Big Talk in TDP Circles!

Dammalapati Srinivas is currently serving as the Advocate General of Andhra Pradesh. This time, however, he faced criticism in a way he never had before — and that too from Telugu Desam supporters themselves. A few days ago, it is known that a large-scale negative campaign against Dammalapati Srinivas was carried out on social media. Some people even published booklets against him and circulated them widely. Especially, TDP cadre criticised him heavily on social media, alleging that he acted favourably towards opponents in several matters. Whatever the reasons may be, strong buzz is circulating both in TDP circles as well as government circles that within a few days — or at least in the new year — the Andhra Pradesh government may appoint a new Advocate General in place of Dammalapati Srinivas.

In fact, it has long been said within TDP circles that during his initial appointment itself, TDP general secretary and minister Nara Lokesh had raised objections, but Chandrababu, citing various reasons, appointed him to the post. Now, it is being said that preparations are underway to appoint a new AG in his place. It is also being said that Dammalapati himself is ready to step down from the post. However, to allow him to exit in a dignified manner, he reportedly asked for at least an MLC seat if not a Rajya Sabha seat, according to TDP sources.

It remains to be seen what decision the TDP will take in this matter. In the past, the Telugu Desam Party sent Kanakamedala Ravindra Kumar, who headed the TDP Legal Cell, to the Rajya Sabha. Similarly, it is being said that Dammalapati also wants to be sent to some legislative body. If Dammalapati Srinivas is removed from the AG post, the next chance may go to either senior advocate Unnam Muralidhar Rao or P. Raghuram, according to reports. However, since Unnam Muralidhar Rao is said to be very close to minister Nara Lokesh, there is strong talk within TDP circles that he has higher chances of being appointed.