Did TDP MLA's Comments Against Jr NTR Cause Controversy?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Political remarks can provoke public outcry.
- Celebrity influence in politics is significant.
- Fan loyalty can lead to organized protests.
- Film and political realms should ideally remain separate.
- Audio leaks can escalate tensions in political discourse.
Amaravati, Aug 17 (NationPress) Controversial statements made by a TDP MLA advocating a boycott of Tollywood superstar Jr NTR's film sparked an uproar, resulting in protests from the actor's loyal fans who are now demanding an apology.
The MLA representing Anantapur Urban, Daggupati Venkateswara Prasad, reportedly used disparaging language towards Jr NTR and called for a boycott of the actor's upcoming movie 'War2' in Anantapur.
An audio recording allegedly featuring the MLA emerged online, which ignited protests from Jr NTR's supporters. On Sunday, fans rallied outside the MLA's residence, insisting on a public apology.
During the protest, they chanted slogans and vandalized the MLA's promotional materials. One protester declared that without the Nandamuri fans, the TDP has no existence.
As tensions escalated, local law enforcement fortified security at the MLA's residence and office.
In response, Prasad released a video statement refuting claims that the voice in the leaked audio is his. He expressed his admiration for the Nara and Nandamuri families and alleged that the audio is a scheme orchestrated by his political adversaries.
The MLA also stated that he is willing to apologize if Jr NTR's fans feel offended.
Nonetheless, the actor's followers are demanding that the MLA address the media to formally apologize for his comments.
Meanwhile, YSR Congress leader and former minister R. K. Roja criticized the MLA's remarks, asserting that politics should not interfere with the film industry.
Roja, who is also an actress, emphasized that since Jr NTR is not involved in politics, such comments should not be made.
She remarked that attempting to boycott Jr NTR's film is as futile as trying to block the sun with a hand.
"If a movie is good, it will find its audience," she stated.
Roja also took a jab at Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, noting that MLAs bought tickets for his film 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu', yet they could not ensure its success.
A faction of TDP supporters reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with Jr NTR following his comments at the pre-release event for 'War2', where he mentioned that as long as he has the blessings of his grandfather, Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR), no one can harm him.
Jr NTR is the grandson of renowned actor and former Chief Minister NTR, who established the TDP in 1982.
NTR's son-in-law, N. Chandrababu Naidu, took control of the party and the administration after leading a revolt against NTR in 1995.
CM Naidu is also preparing his son, Nara Lokesh, as his political heir. Some of Jr NTR's fans believe he should carry on his grandfather's political legacy.