Article Today, Amravati:
A fresh controversy has emerged in Andhra Pradesh politics as Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan skipped the high-profile signing ceremony of the Google data centre agreement held in Delhi on Tuesday. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and IT Minister Nara Lokesh were the central figures at the event, which marked a major investment milestone for the state. Pawan’s absence from such a nationally significant occasion has triggered speculation of internal rifts within the ruling coalition.
Lokesh in the Limelight
Chief Minister Naidu openly credited his son and Minister Lokesh for securing the deal, describing his role as “pivotal” in bringing the investment to Andhra Pradesh. Political observers interpret this as a deliberate attempt to highlight Lokesh’s leadership credentials on a national platform. By doing so, the Chief Minister has drawn attention to an apparent shift in power dynamics, where Lokesh is projected as the technocratic face of the state, while Pawan’s role appears increasingly confined to regional functions.
Delhi Spotlight Without Pawan
The Google data centre agreement is considered a landmark for Andhra Pradesh, with potential to transform Visakhapatnam into a major technological hub. Despite the significance, Pawan Kalyan remained in Amravati, attending a routine review meeting. Analysts note that both leaders have shared stages for far smaller events, questioning why Pawan was excluded from a globally covered programme. His absence, they argue, does not appear coincidental.
Strategic Distance or Political Calculation
Critics suggest that Pawan Kalyan’s absence may be part of a broader political strategy. Despite holding the position of Deputy Chief Minister, he has been missing from major national and international forums that could enhance his political standing. The latest event reinforces perceptions that key decisions and credits within the coalition are being carefully managed to consolidate influence around the Chief Minister’s family.
Questions Over Coalition Harmony
No official explanation has been offered for Pawan’s non-participation in the Delhi ceremony. However, the episode has revived debate over the balance of power within the alliance that assumed office only months ago. Political commentators note that early signs of division between the Chief Minister and his deputy could have long-term implications for governance and coalition stability.
A Test for Leadership Unity
The Google-Adani data centre project, which aims to drive advances in artificial intelligence and data infrastructure, was hailed by Naidu as “a transformative step for Andhra’s future.” Yet the event that was meant to symbolize technological progress has instead spotlighted political fault lines. As Pawan Kalyan remains confined to review meetings in Amravati, questions persist on whether the coalition leadership can maintain unity amid growing perceptions of unequal prominence.
