Former Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Alla Nani passed away on Wednesday in Visakhapatnam following a cardiac arrest. The leader, who played a significant role in the state's pandemic management, was 56 years old. His death has sent shockwaves through Andhra Pradesh's political landscape, prompting tributes from colleagues across party lines.
Nani had been serving as the state's Health Minister during the critical COVID-19 pandemic period when the Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy government was navigating one of the worst health crises in India's recent history. His responsibilities during those turbulent months placed him at the center of public attention, with decisions on hospital management, oxygen supplies, and vaccination drives falling squarely under his watch.
A prominent politician from Eluru in the West Godavari district, Nani had been a loyal ally of Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy for much of his political career. However, his political journey took an unexpected turn in 2024 when he lost the Eluru assembly constituency election to theYSRCP's opponent. Following the electoral defeat, Nani made the decisive move to quit the YSRCP in August 2024, a decision that sparked considerable discussion within the ruling party's ranks.
His political realignment continued when he formally joined the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in February 2025, aligning himself with the opposition coalition led by N. Chandrababu Naidu. The move was seen as a significant boost for the TDP, which was looking to strengthen its position ahead of upcoming political contests in the state.
Reports indicate that Nani was admitted to a private hospital in Visakhapatnam where doctors attempted resuscitation efforts but were unable to revive him. The exact cause of the cardiac arrest is being investigated, though no foul play has been suspected. His family has been informed and relatives are reportedly traveling to the city from their hometown in Eluru.
Political leaders from various parties have expressed grief over his demise. The YSRCP government announced official arrangements for his last rites, while the TDP leadership also issued statements mourning the loss of a fellow leader.
