New Delhi: As the Andhra Pradesh Assembly polls draw closer, former election strategist Prashant Kishor on Saturday met Telugu Desam Party chief N Chandrababu Naidu triggering a buzz owing to its timing.
Kishor, who helped YSRCP chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy wrest power from the TDP in the 2019 assembly polls, was reportedly seen at Gannavaram Airport with Naidu's son, Nara Lokesh, on the same day, reported ANI.
The meeting sparked speculation within political circles with many guessing that TDP has roped him in as a mentor for the strategists. However, Kishor dialed down the buzz and called it just a 'courtesy meet'.
"It is just a courtesy meet, why are you getting excited? (Naidu) is a senior leader, he wanted to meet me, I came," Kishor told reporters upon his arrival.
Subsequently, both Nara Lokesh and the former poll strategist proceeded to Chandrababu's residence in Undavalli using the same vehicle. Alongside Kishor, members of Robin Sharma's team, a political strategist associated with TDP through Show Time Consultancy, also participated in the meeting.
The three-hour discussion between Chandrababu and Prashant Kishor reportedly touched on crucial issues, reported ANI.
Sources told ANI that a detailed analysis of Jagan's ruling government was presented, in the meeting, outlining its strengths and weaknesses across various categories and topics.
As per the report, Kishor highlighted widespread dissatisfaction among the youth due to issues such as unemployment, price hikes, electricity bills, and taxes.
"Alleged mistreatment of Dalits and backward classes also surfaced as concerns that might affect the upcoming elections. Kishor suggested that the opposition, including the TDP, should formulate a strategy to address these sentiments," the sources said further.
The Andhra Pradesh assembly elections will be held along with the Lok Sabha polls next year.