Minister Kodali Nani rarely comes before the media. Whenever he does, his impudent comments kick up a controversy. His recent comments over Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath at Tirumala created a storm. His disparaging remarks on attacks on temples too sparked protests by BJP and religious organisations. BJP leaders have staged protests demanding his sacking from the Cabinet for his remarks on Modi and Yogi. Observers feel that perhaps this is the first time that a minister has indulged in such a filthy talk. YSRCP leaders believe that they would be in the good books of Jagan Mohan Reddy if they attack TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu. That is seen as the main reason for Nani’s frequent use of abusive language against TDP and its supremo.
‘Your mom’s husband told you?’
Civil supplies minister Kodali Nani announced after the formation of the YSRCP government that they were going to distribute fine rice in ration shops from September 2019. As officials made it clear it was not possible, he began to abuse those who questioned him on his promise. He resorted to coarse language like “Who told you that we are going to give fine rice? Your mom’s husband?” towards those who reminded him of his earlier assurance.
Nani, who remained silent for some time, again came into limelight with his remarks on temple incidents. People who are angry over lack of any arrests despite dozens of attacks on temples, were further infuriated by the minister’s insensitive talk. Ministers too reportedly faced an embarrassing situation when their supporters in their constituencies confronted them on Nani’s remarks. They reported the matter to Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy. As intelligence reports too indicated that the brash minister’s comments have the potential of causing damage to the party and the government, Jagan has reportedly asked Kodali Nani to keep quiet and stay away from the media for some time.
Effect on Tirupati bypoll
Tirupati Lok Sabha seat will soon have a bypoll following the death of incumbent MP Balli Durga Prasad. The bypoll could not have come at a worse time for the ruling YSRCP. Kodali Nani’s reckless comments on Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy’s Tirumala visit muddied the waters for YSRCP. The Chief Minister brushed aside the age old tradition of non-Hindus signing a declaration and presenting silk robes to the deity along with spouse. Nani dismissed those traditions and even questioned Modi and Yogi’s marital status in support of Jagan.
More harm than benefit
Political observers opine that Nani’s presence in any party causes more harm than benefit to that party. This opinion is shared by some of his Cabinet colleagues too. A few YSRCP activists are venting on social media, accusing him of trying to run down the party in connivance with TDP president Chandrababu Naidu. Unnerved by these developments, the party leadership has reportedly silenced him for the time being.
Nani isolated
According to sources, Nani has been isolated in the party and the government as many ministers and leaders are keeping away from him. Another version is that YSRCP leadership had deliberately instigated him to abuse Naidu and made him an outcast to destroy his political career. Normally, Reddy leaders in the party gloat over the uncouth attacks on Naidu, but Nani’s tirade proved too much for them also.
There are also social media posts arguing that any government that has Kodali Nani would collapse midway. All these indicate a bleak political future for the Gudivada leader.
