In a stunning move, two-time Telugu Desam Party (TDP) MP from Guntur, Jayadev Galla, announced his resignation from politics and from the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, citing personal reasons and a broader concern over the “weaponisation” of investigative agencies.
The industrialist-turned-politician, who is also the chairman of Amara Raja Group, made the announcement during his farewell speech in the Lok Sabha, leaving fellow MPs across party lines stunned.
The farewell speech
Speaking on the floor of the House, Galla said, “I have decided to step away from active politics and also resign as a member of this august House. This is a personal decision, but it is also a statement.”
He added, “In recent years, we have witnessed the slow but steady weaponisation of our constitutional agencies. When tax notices and enforcement directorate summons become tools to silence dissent, a businessman-turned-MP like me must ask: Is this the democracy we fought for?”
Galla did not name any specific agency or case but referred generally to “multiple investigations” that he said were “politically motivated and commercially destructive.”
The context: ED cases against Galla
Jayadev Galla has been facing Enforcement Directorate (ED) scrutiny since 2022 in connection with alleged foreign exchange violations linked to his business dealings. The agency had issued multiple summons to him, though no chargesheet has been filed to date.
Galla has consistently denied any wrongdoing and called the investigations “harassment.” In his speech, he said, “I have spent more time responding to notices than serving my constituency. That is not why I entered public life.”
Resignation letter details
In his resignation letter submitted to Lok Sabha Speaker, Galla wrote, “I am grateful to the people of Guntur for giving me the opportunity to serve them twice. However, the current political environment has made it impossible for me to continue with my head held high.”
He also requested the Speaker to accept his resignation with immediate effect. The Speaker has not yet accepted the resignation; it will be verified for voluntary and genuine intent.
Political reactions
TDP chief N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed shock at Galla’s decision. “Jayadev is a bright young leader and a clean administrator. I tried to persuade him to reconsider. Unfortunately, he has made up his mind,” Naidu said in a statement.
The BJP, however, dismissed Galla’s allegations. Party spokesperson Sambit Patra said, “The ED and IT departments act independently. If someone feels targeted, they should avail legal remedies instead of making speeches on the floor of the House.”
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi came out in support of Galla, tweeting: “When a sitting MP speaks of ‘weaponisation of agencies’ on the floor of Parliament, the nation must listen. This is not a partisan issue. It is a constitutional crisis.”
Who is Jayadev Galla?
Jayadev Galla is the son-in-law of TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu. He first won from Guntur Lok Sabha constituency in 2019 and was re-elected in 2024. Before politics, he was known for transforming Amara Raja Batteries into a global brand.
He holds an MBA from Cornell University and is known for his tech-forward approach to politics, often using data and governance metrics in his campaigns.
What’s next for Galla?
Galla confirmed he will focus full-time on his business and philanthropic activities through the Amara Raja Foundation. “I am not joining any other party. I am not running for any office. I am simply returning to where I started — building enterprises and creating jobs,” he said.
He also hinted at writing a book on his political journey, saying, “There is a story to tell, but today is not the day.”
Impact on TDP
Galla’s resignation is a significant blow to TDP, which already has a limited presence in the Lok Sabha. The party will now face a by-election in the Guntur constituency. Naidu has indicated that Galla’s wife — also a businesswoman — may be considered as the candidate.
