Ex-Anglo-Indian MLA Phillip Tocher resigns from TDP over Naidu's remarks
By Newsmeter Network Published on 9 Jan 2021 1:30 PM GMT
Vijayawada: Former Anglo-Indian MLA of Andhra Pradesh Phillip C. Tocher has resigned from the TDP over party chief N. Chandrababu Naidu's remarks about the Christian community.
The former legislator who was nominated during the TDP rule wrote to TDP president Archam Naidu informing him about his resignation. "I am pained to inform you that I am resigning from the TDP's active membership with immediate effect from this day (referring to 9 January) over remarks made by Nara Chandrababu Naidu against the Christian community," wrote Mr. Tocher.
He also said that the Christian community of Andhra Pradesh is questioning his role in the TDP.
Andhra Pradesh has witnessed several incidents of temple attacks. Around 59 fresh incidents have been reported in the state. Feeling the heat, the Chief Minister has directed cops to take stern action against the culprits.
The recent attack on Ramatheertham temple proved to be the last nail in the coffin with main opposition TDP and BJP coming out with all guns blazing against the YS Jagan Mohan Reddy-led YSRCP government.
Amid reports of attacks on temples and desecration of idols, the TDP national president and former Chief Minister, Mr. Naidu, accused Jagan of misusing his position to promote conversions and said, "This was a blatant violation of the Constitution. Who gave Jagan the authority to hurt the sentiments of other religions? Everybody is entitled to their own faith and belief under the Constitution."
Mr. Naidu further said, "A deputy Chief Minister extended his Christmas greetings at the Tirumala temple. Christmas celebrations were held at the police station."
The TDP chief's statement led to protests across Tirupati with the Christian community in the state demanding Mr. Naidu take back his remarks and appeal for peace in the state.
