The resignation of Chalasani Anjaneyulu as chairman and director of Krishna District Milk Producers Mutually Aided Cooperative Union Limited, popularly known as Vijaya Dairy, has triggered political discussions within the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in Andhra Pradesh.
Anjaneyulu, who served as Vijaya Dairy chairman for nearly seven years, had recently been re-elected for a third term. However, within 24 hours of his re-election, the TDP leadership reportedly asked him to step down from both the chairman and director positions. He subsequently submitted his resignation on Friday.
Sudden Resignation Sparks Questions
The circumstances surrounding Anjaneyulu’s resignation have generated discussion within political circles.
Mines and Geology Minister Kollu Ravindra and Housing Minister Kolusu Parthasarathy reportedly met Anjaneyulu to discuss developments within the dairy. Later, while Anjaneyulu was undergoing treatment at a hospital for health-related issues, Parthasarathy received his resignation letter.
The ministers subsequently met Vijaya Dairy directors to discuss the cooperative’s functioning and allegations reportedly raised against Anjaneyulu.
According to party sources, Anjaneyulu denied the allegations and initially indicated that he was unwilling to resign. However, the TDP leadership later made it clear that he should step down from both positions.
TDP Leaders Question Timing of Intervention
The sudden intervention after Anjaneyulu’s re-election has reportedly caused some unease among sections of the TDP.
Some party leaders have questioned why concerns regarding his candidature were not raised before the election. The development has consequently led to discussions within the party over the process followed in securing his resignation.
Lobbying Intensifies for New Chairman
Following Anjaneyulu’s resignation, TDP leadership has begun consultations to identify his successor.
Several MLAs and party leaders have proposed candidates for the position. Due to competing claims, the leadership has reportedly decided to defer the appointment by around a week.
Several Names Emerge for the Post
Senior director and Pedana ZPTC member Arja Nagesh is considered one of the leading contenders. His candidature is reportedly backed by Pedana MLA Kagitha Krishna Prasad.
Another contender is Paladugu Venkata Rama Vara Prasad (Nani) from Gannavaram, who is reportedly supported by Government Whip and Gannavaram MLA Yarlagadda Venkata Rao.
Newly elected director Gondi Narendra of Davajigudem is also reportedly in the race. Some MLAs have suggested additional candidates, including a woman director.
Board Support Key to Selection
Vijaya Dairy currently has 14 directors, including four women. The TDP leadership is looking for a candidate who can secure the support of the board and ensure the smooth functioning of the cooperative.
The party leadership has entrusted Minister Kollu Ravindra with the responsibility of selecting the new chairman. He is expected to consult MLAs, party leaders and dairy directors before finalising the candidate.
The appointment is likely to be decided after a week as discussions continue among competing candidates and their supporters.
Outlook for Vijaya Dairy
The change in leadership comes at a significant time for Vijaya Dairy, with the cooperative’s board preparing to work under a new chairman.
The final selection will depend on the candidate’s support within the board as well as the backing of local TDP leaders. The decision is expected to bring an end to the current political uncertainty surrounding the cooperative’s leadership.
