The way Telugu Desam Party president and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu reportedly reprimanded his ministers during Wednesday’s cabinet meeting has triggered speculation that a cabinet reshuffle is imminent — and that some non-performing ministers may be shown the door.
In previous cabinet meetings, Naidu had advised ministers to improve their performance, but with little visible change. This time, he is said to have taken a more serious tone, warning them to “start counting their days” if results don’t improve.
This has led to widespread talk that Naidu may soon drop underperforming ministers and induct fresh faces.
Several ministers, reportedly falling short of the CM’s expectations, are now said to be in panic, unsure of who might get the axe.
According to sources, Naidu believes that some ministers are not responding adequately to their departmental responsibilities, with a few failing to even speak on key issues.
Intelligence inputs have also reportedly highlighted their poor performance and negative media coverage.
Naidu is also believed to be planning a cabinet expansion, which could include actor-politician Nagababu (brother of Chiranjeevi), and possibly a BJP leader as part of the coalition dynamics. This has further fueled speculation that a broader cabinet overhaul may be on the cards.
According to reports, at least five ministers could be dropped in the impending reshuffle. Among those under scrutiny is a minister from North Andhra, whose position is considered vulnerable.
Intelligence sources have also flagged concerns about a minister from Rayalaseema, reportedly maintaining ties with YSRCP leaders.
Party cadres have raised complaints against a former YSRCP leader-turned-minister, accusing him of neglecting TDP workers.
Another minister from the Godavari region has faced criticism since the beginning of the term.
If these ministers are indeed dropped, Naidu will need to carefully balance social and regional representation while reconstituting the cabinet.
