JC Prabhakar Reddy turns to ‘Gandhigiri’

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

TDP leader and Tadipatri Municipal Chairman JC Prabhakar Reddy has once again grabbed attention with an unconventional approach to tackling the town’s worsening traffic congestion.

Instead of confronting shopkeepers who repeatedly ignored appeals to keep roads clear, Prabhakar Reddy resorted to “Gandhigiri”, personally garlanding the traders and feeding them sweets before making yet another appeal for cooperation.

Traffic congestion has become a persistent problem in Tadipatri, particularly along busy commercial stretches where vehicles are frequently parked haphazardly outside shops and on the roadsides. Prabhakar Reddy has been repeatedly urging traders and the public to use designated parking spaces and avoid obstructing traffic. During a visit to Putluru Road, he noticed several motorcycles parked in front of shops and obstructing the carriageway. Rather than immediately ordering enforcement action, he approached the shopkeepers and presented them with flower garlands and sweets.

“I don’t need to abuse or beat anyone to make them understand. That is why I have come with love, garlanded you and offered you sweets,” he told the traders, asking them to cooperate in resolving the town’s traffic problems.

Taking his appeal further, Prabhakar Reddy even said he was prepared to touch their feet, if necessary to persuade them to comply.

However, the municipal chairman also made it clear that his conciliatory approach had limits. He warned that continued violations could result in strict action, including the closure of shops. “If you still don’t change, I will personally come and lock your shops. Tell me what else I should do,” he told the traders.