Date:22/07/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/07/22/stories/2008072259670600.htm

Andhra Pradesh

Chiru’s party takes a step forward

Basic organisational structure put in place

Nagendra Babu gives introductory lecture
Chiru’s name constantly repeated between messages

HYDERABAD: Film actor Chiranjeevi’s party took another step forward towards its formation when it delegated district-level organisational responsibilities in Karimnagar, Khammam, Nalgonda and Ranga Reddy, at a well-attended meeting here on Monday.

However, while names were not disclosed at the meetings attended by the actor’s brother K. Nagendra Babu and the party’s ideologue, Dr. P. Mitra, it was made amply clear that the basic organisational structure was put in place. The week-long ‘Sannahaka Samaveshaalu’ (preparatory meetings) at the Raavi Narayana Reddy auditorium in Banjara Hills, will handle four districts a day till Saturday.

Kicking off the proceedings in the morning, Mr. Nagendra Babu took the audience through an introductory lecture on what necessitated the entry of Mr. Chiranjeevi. He said the date of launch was yet to be finalised and the megastar himself would make the announcement at a meeting in the State capital. The machinery was in place, he declared, adding that the army of people making a beeline to be a part of the ‘mega rail’ was swelling by the day.

Dr. Mitra sought to dispel notions that district/mandal committees were already formed and termed the meetings as the first step to have an organisation in place. Referring to scrolls on television channels that booth-level committees were formed, he clarified, “We have only delegated responsibilities. Members concerned were asked to shoulder the burden of taking the new political party’s message into the districts. This is not a position.”

The programme was interspersed with cultural troupes charging up the atmosphere in the auditorium that was full. The songs were aimed at creating awareness and the need for transparent governance.

Mr. Chiranjeevi’s name was constantly repeated between messages on the need for people to realise the importance of their votes.

Those who attended the meetings included fans and people who expressed their desire to join the party. Pamphlets were given away with pointers as to how simple the process of voter enrolment was, with volunteers on hand to help those coming to designated government offices for enlistment.

Several banners welcoming the next ‘Chief Minister’ were displayed prominently.