Has Kodali Nani’s impudent comments landed the YSRCP in serious trouble? His comments in the backdrop of serial attacks on temples generated heat in state as well as at national level. The reckless talk like “what will happen if a hand of Hanuman idol is broken? There is no loss if a chariot is burnt in Antarvedi? So what if 10 kg of silver is stolen?” have roiled Hindus in the state. Such irresponsible utterances by the minister are also causing concern even among YSRCP leaders and cadre. A few of them are expressing that they can’t even move among people if Nani is not reined in.
Adding fuel to fire
Hindus in the state are angry over a series of attacks on temples. Nani rubbed salt in the wound by his incendiary talk. His derogatory comments on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath sparked further protests from BJP and RSS outfits. His jab on Modi and Adityanath attending Ayodhya ceremony without spouses has infuriated the saffron brigade which is demanding his sacking. Though BJP is not a significant force in the state, joining of RSS, Bajrangdal and VHP in protests against defilement of temples is lending more weight to their stir.
Serious damage
Reaction to Kodali Nani’s comments against Modi and Adityanath has rattled the YSRCP so much that Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy had to hold a press meet to admit that Nani’s comments were wrong. Ruling party leaders are trying to downplay the minister’s remarks saying he did not intend to hurt the feelings of Hindus, but they need to realize that the damage has already been done. Kodali Nani has fallen silent for now.
The discontent against the government over its apathy towards attacks on temples is rising among Hindus in the state. There have been no arrests with regard to 26 attacks on temples, but 40 people were held by police in connection with pelting of stones on a church.
YSRCP in damage control mode
The YSRCP which realized the damage caused by Kodali Nani’s outburst has begun damage control measures. It is learnt that Nani has been told to keep his mouth shut and stay away from the media for a while. That is why he is not making any comments despite a barrage of criticism over his utterances. YSRCP leader Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy said Nani’s comments are his personal and the party has nothing to do with them, but there are no takers for this argument. On the other hand, party leaders and cadre feel that the party will lose a lot if Nani is not put on a leash.
