The political atmosphere turning very hot in Andhra Pradesh following the arrest of Telugu Desam Party president N Chandrababu Naidu in the alleged skill development corporation scam and war of words between the TDP and YSR Congress party leaders.
There is going to be more heat and dust in the state politics with the resumption of Varahi Yatra by Jana Sena Party chief and power star Pawan Kalyan in Krishna district with effect from Sunday.
So, it is a hectic time for the television channels and also digital media channels to cover the developments from time to time. And it is also huge opportunity for the so-called “political analysts” to air their views in these channels to take part by taking part in the debates.
Unfortunately, the media channels – television or digital – in Andhra Pradesh are vertically divided on political lines – either in favour of the ruling YSR Congress party or the opposition Telugu Desam Party; some of course play trumpet even for Jana Sena Party.
Since these channels have their own political affiliations, they invite “political analysts” who suit their needs and present their perspective while participating in the so-called debates. And the anchors of these channels also make the best use of the opportunity to display their loyalty to the political parties the channels are affiliated with.
Needless to say, the anchors and the analysts have been making quick buck by taking a stand in favour of the political parties with which they are affiliated.
According to sources, anchors and analysts associated with the YSR Congress party get a good amount of money from the party for airing their views in its favour and carrying the message to the people. Since these anchors and analysts are popular figures, their words carry a lot of weight.
So is the case with the channels and analysts displaying their loyalty with the TDP. While the anchors and channel managements also get regular money from the TDP media management wing, the analysts, too, are said to be getting considerable amount of money for defending Naidu and the party.
Moreover, these analysts are of the view that if the TDP comes to power in Andhra Pradesh by any chance, they could bargain for some good positions in the government because of their contribution to the party’s victory in the form of debates, influencing the voters.
This trend is expected to continue till the assembly elections scheduled to be held in another six months.
“As the elections approach, one can see these anchors and analysts going aggressive in support of their affiliated political parties,” sources said.
