TDP hints at joining BJP-led NDA

In a big development, which may change the political equation in Andhra Pradesh and elsewhere in the country, TDP leader N Chandrababu Naidu hinted at returning to the NDA fold, saying fighting against the Congress will remain the top priority and all political parties must join hands to achieve this goal.

Naidu’s TDP had extended outside support to Vajpayee-led NDA government in 1999-2004 and even took the post of Lok Sabha Speaker in return. They finally withdrew from the NDA after the defeat in 2004 polls.

During his public rally in Hyderabad, Narendra Modi had sent feelers to Chandrababu Naidu, requesting him for support in the fight against the Congress. Modi also reminded Naidu about the NTR legacy, which was founded on anti-Congress plank.

At the same time, BJP extended its support to TDP MPs in Lok Sabha when they Congress sought action against them for disrupting the House in protest against the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh. The popularity of YSR Congress in Seemandhra region, may force Naidu to reconsider his earlier stand and go for an alliance with BJP under Modi’s leadership so that he can encash the latter’s popularity.