Democracy – Venkaiah Naidu Calls for Values-Based Politics and Youth Leadership
Democracy – Former Vice President Muppavarapu Venkaiah Naidu has voiced concern over the growing influence of money in electoral politics, saying democratic institutions need leaders guided by values, ideology and public responsibility rather than financial power.
He made the remarks on Sunday while attending the launch of Venkaiah Nayakudu, a biography documenting his five decades in political and public life. The book, written by senior journalist Ma Sharma, was released at the VPR Convention Centre in Nellore.
Call for Principled Participation in Public Life
Naidu said young people should play a larger role in politics, but added that public life demands commitment, discipline and ethical conduct. According to him, those entering politics should remain connected to the principles and ideology they choose to follow.
He said politics can become more meaningful when emerging leaders focus on public service instead of personal gain. Young aspirants, he noted, must be prepared to work consistently and maintain dignity in their conduct while representing people.
Warning Against Social Divisions
During his address, Naidu cautioned against efforts to create divisions in society based on caste, religion, language, region or community. Such divisions, he said, can weaken democratic values and harm social unity.
He stressed that political leaders should be assessed on the basis of their character, ability and behaviour rather than their caste or identity. Naidu said this approach would help improve the standing of both the state and the country.
The former Vice President said public representatives have a responsibility to encourage unity and ensure that politics does not become a platform for deepening social differences.
Opposition Must Earn Public Trust
Speaking about the role of the Opposition, Naidu said its position cannot be handed over by any individual or political group. He said an effective Opposition earns recognition through credible public work, strong arguments and consistent engagement with people’s issues.
Recalling his early years in politics, Naidu referred to a period when his party had only three MLAs in the Assembly. Despite the limited strength, he said, he and former leader Jaipal Reddy were able to question the government effectively because their arguments were supported by facts.
He said the strength of an Opposition should not be measured only by numbers in the legislature. Constructive criticism, factual debate and accountability, he added, remain essential to a healthy democratic system.
Amaravati Development Should Be Completed in Phases
Naidu also spoke about the development of Andhra Pradesh’s capital. He said he had earlier suggested to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu that the capital should be developed in the area between Vijayawada and Guntur because Amaravati is centrally located.
He said the government should make use of available resources to complete the capital development works without unnecessary delay. At the same time, he suggested that future expansion could be carried out in phases depending on requirements and financial capacity.
Naidu said planned development of the capital region could support administrative efficiency and contribute to the state’s long-term growth. He underlined the need for timely execution of infrastructure projects while ensuring that public resources are used responsibly.
The event brought together political leaders, journalists, public representatives and supporters who reflected on Naidu’s long association with public life and his contributions to political discourse.