Jagan Mohan Reddy’s recent decisions may jeopardize YSR Congress as elections approach. In Nellore and Prakasam districts, traditionally YSR Congress strongholds, TDP is gaining traction due to anti-incumbency sentiments. Notably, TDP secured three seats in Jagan’s wave during the 2019 elections.
Ongole MP Magunta Sreenivasula Reddy and Rajya Sabha MP Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy, prominent YSR Congress leaders, are on the verge of leaving the party. Magunta is expected to meet Chandrababu Naidu today, signaling a potential shift to TDP. Vemireddy might follow suit in the coming days.
Jagan’s refusal to grant the Ongole MP ticket to Magunta, despite Balineni’s preference, has fueled discontent. Similarly, Jagan’s choice for Vemireddy to contest as Nellore MP has strained their relationship. The CM’s exclusion of Vemireddy in deciding candidates for certain constituencies under the Parliamentary seat has led to his recent disconnect with YSR Congress leadership.
Both Magunta and Vemireddy, being affluent candidates, can significantly contribute to party funding. If they join TDP, it could bolster the party’s influence in the South of Coastal Andhra, posing a substantial challenge to YSR Congress.
Furthermore, the political landscape is evolving with alliances forming between TDP and Janasena, while Chandrababu Naidu contemplates joining BJP. These developments pose a potential threat to YSRCP, creating a challenging scenario in the upcoming elections. Jagan’s mistakes might prove costly, shifting the political dynamics in favor of the opposition.
