Many Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), particularly in the United States, are expressing deep concern over the lack of direct engagement from the leadership of TDP and Jana Sena. This concern isn’t limited to the U.S. – it extends to Telugu communities across the UK, Australia, South Africa, the Middle East, and other diaspora hubs.
While investments for Andhra Pradesh or Telangana are important, NRI outreach should not be limited to economic gains. Telugu people abroad have been strategists, advisors, educators, entrepreneurs, and tireless campaigners for these parties – not just donors. we are the party’s intellectual and emotional capital across borders.
A deeper engagement based on trust, respect, and mutual vision is the need of the hour-
We urge the TDP Politburo and Jana Sena’s leadership to revisit their global outreach strategy. A coordinated NRI meet-and-greet tour with leaders like Shri N. Chandrababu Naidu, Pawan Kalyan garu, Lokesh Babu, Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, Payyavula Keshav, Ganta Srinivasa Rao, Rammohan Naidu, Kollu Ravindra, Anagani Satya Prasad, Narayana Murthy garu, and others could rebuild faith, boost morale, and recognize the NRI role in the recent political comeback.
Yes, a few NRIs have been rightfully recognized with MLA, MP, or cabinet posts — and we commend that. But there are hundreds more across the globe who worked relentlessly in the shadows, guided by nothing but faith and commitment to the TDP cause.
The recent remark attributed to CBN garu, stating he and his leaders will not attend forums like TANA or NATS due to being busy, was received with disappointment across the NRI community. These organizations are made of various members from various communities. Regardless of whether the comment was made behind closed doors or in public, a leader of his stature is expected to foster inclusion, not distance. Silence would have been better than such a dismissive tone. We also expect Minister Kondapalli Srinivas garu, who represents NRIs in the cabinet, to provide clarity and bridge this gap.
Contrast this with BRS leader KTR’s recent Dallas visit – it was not an investment summit, but a simple meet-and-greet that drew over 6,000 people. It showed what genuine connection and presence can accomplish.
TDP and Jana Sena must go beyond election-time support and build long-term, emotional, and intellectual bridges with the global Telugu community. NRIs are not just supporters – they are stakeholders. We want relationships not receipts.
Jagadish Prabhala
Disclaimer: These are the personal opinions of the author
