Dharmapuri Srinivas: A Legacy in Telangana’s Political Landscape
Former Congress leader Dharmapuri Srinivas, a significant figure in Telangana politics, passed away at 3 AM on 29 June 2024, due to a cardiac arrest. His demise marks the end of an era for the political landscape of both united Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Early Life and Political Beginnings
Dharmapuri Srinivas was born on September 27, 1948, in Nizamabad district. He completed his education at Nizam College, Hyderabad, before embarking on a political career with the Indian National Congress (INC). His political journey began in earnest in 1989 when he contested and won the Nizamabad Urban constituency, marking his entry as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA).
Rise within the Congress Party
Srinivas quickly rose through the ranks of the Congress party. By 1998, he had been appointed President of the united Andhra Pradesh Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC), showcasing his leadership and dedication to the party. His tenure as an MLA saw him re-elected in 1999 and 2004, highlighting his popularity and effectiveness as a politician.
Ministerial Roles and Contributions
During the Congress party’s rule from 2004 to 2014 in united Andhra Pradesh, Srinivas served as a minister, managing portfolios in Higher Education and Intermediate Education under Chief Minister Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy. His contributions to the state’s education sector were significant, with numerous initiatives aimed at improving educational standards and accessibility.
Transition to Telangana Rashtra Samithi
Following the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh in 2014, Srinivas joined the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) in 2015. His political acumen and experience were recognized, and he was subsequently elected to the Rajya Sabha. This move underscored his adaptability and continued relevance in the ever-evolving political arena.
Family and Personal Life
Dharmapuri Srinivas is survived by his two sons. His elder son, Sanjay, has previously served as the Mayor of Nizamabad, while his younger son, Dharmapuri Arvind, is currently the MP of Nizamabad. The family’s involvement in politics extends Srinivas’s legacy, with both sons actively contributing to their constituencies.
Condolences and Tributes
The news of Srinivas’s passing has led to an outpouring of condolences from various political figures. Telangana Minister for Transport and BC Welfare, Ponnam Prabhakar, expressed his deep sorrow, reflecting on their long association and Srinivas’s significant contributions as a Minister and PCC Chief. Prabhakar extended his sympathies to the family, offering prayers for strength during this challenging time.
Political Career Highlights
Dharmapuri Srinivas’s political career is marked by several key milestones:
- Elected MLA: Srinivas was elected as an MLA three times, in 1989, 1999, and 2004, representing Nizamabad Urban.
- PCC President: He served as the President of the united Andhra Pradesh Pradesh Congress Committee, a role in which he demonstrated his leadership skills and political strategy.
- Ministerial Roles: Srinivas held various ministerial positions, significantly impacting the state’s educational policies and infrastructure.
- Rajya Sabha Member: After joining TRS, he was elected to the Rajya Sabha, continuing his legislative work at the national level.
Challenges and Defeats
Despite his successes, Srinivas faced electoral defeats in 2009, 2010 (bye-election), and 2012 to the BJP, and in 2014 to the BRS party. These losses, however, did not diminish his stature or influence in the political realm.
Legacy and Impact
Dharmapuri Srinivas’s impact on Telangana’s political landscape is profound. His leadership within the Congress party, contributions as a minister, and adaptability in joining TRS post-bifurcation, all speak to his resilience and dedication. His role in shaping the educational policies of united Andhra Pradesh has left a lasting legacy, benefiting countless students and educators.
Final Years and Resignation
In 2015, Srinivas resigned from the INC party, marking a significant shift in his political journey. His final years were spent serving as a Rajya Sabha member until 2022, after which he remained an influential figure in Telangana’s political circles.
Conclusion
Dharmapuri Srinivas’s passing is a significant loss for Telangana and Indian politics. His life’s work, spanning decades, showcases a commitment to public service and political excellence. As Telangana mourns his loss, his legacy will undoubtedly continue through the ongoing work of his sons and the many lives he impacted through his political and ministerial roles.
