The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) will reserve 33 percent of its Assembly and Parliament seats for women in the 2029 general elections, national working president Nara Lokesh announced Wednesday. The commitment, made at the party's Mahanadu conclave in Vijayawada, will stand regardless of whether the national Women’s Reservation Bill is implemented.
Mr. Lokesh described the move as a "historic resolution," framing it as a responsibility and a promise for India's future. He stressed the necessity for more women legislators, leaders, and policymakers in the country.
“We need more women legislators, more women leaders and more women policy makers. Women will walk shoulder to shoulder in leading the future of TDP. This is our resolve, our responsibility and our commitment,” he said.
Delivering his maiden speech as national working president, Mr. Lokesh signaled his intent to influence candidate selection. Approximately 30 percent new leaders are expected to join his "next Gen team," an initiative designed to empower women and introduce fresh faces within the party.
He accused rival parties of obstructing the national Women’s Reservation Bill in parliament, arguing they often speak of empowerment only during elections. The TDP, he asserted, consistently upholds women's empowerment in both principle and practice.
The next era of Indian politics, Mr. Lokesh stated, should be led by women. He praised the NDA government for its "historic step" in introducing the women's reservation Bill, advocating for women to become decision-makers rather than just welfare beneficiaries.
Mr. Lokesh highlighted TDP founder N T Rama Rao's (NTR) pioneering efforts, including equal property rights for women, local body reservations, and the establishment of Padmavathi University. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu furthered these initiatives with 33 percent reservations in education and employment, DWCRA groups, and welfare schemes like Deepam.
The national working president also launched a sharp attack on the opposition YSRCP and its leadership, which he repeatedly termed "Team-11." He challenged YSRCP president Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy to a public debate on "development and welfare," urging him to "Fix the date and time."
Under Mr. Naidu's leadership, Andhra Pradesh is attracting significant global investments and industrial projects, Mr. Lokesh claimed. The state is advancing in futuristic sectors such as artificial intelligence, quantum technology, and fighter jet manufacturing.
He commended TDP cadre for their support during challenging times between 2019 and 2024, accusing the previous YSRCP government of targeting BCs, Dalits, and minorities. Party workers were urged to counter "fake propaganda" and prepare for upcoming local body elections in "mission mode."
