The political landscape in Andhra Pradesh is undergoing a significant shift, marked by a notable exodus of leaders from the ruling YSRCP party, raising significant concerns about the party’s standing in the upcoming 2024 assembly and Lok Sabha elections. Unlike the usual clamor for MLA or MP tickets from the ruling party before elections, the ruling YSRCP is grappling with a severe crisis regarding its candidates, prompting analysts to speculate about potential electoral repercussions.
The recent departure of Machilipatnam MP Balasouri Vallabhaneni, a prominent figure known for playing a crucial role in securing bail for Jagan before the 2014 elections, has sent shockwaves through the party. As per analysts, rumors of his imminent joining the Jana Sena Party only compound the potential blow to Jagan’s political stature.
Adding to the unfolding narrative, Kurnool MP S. Sanjeev Kumar, renowned for his contributions through Aayushman Family Hospital in Kurnool, resigned from the party earlier this month. While YSRCP leaders attribute his departure to a denied ticket, others point to the substantial financial demands made by Jagan from the sitting MP candidate as a possible motivator. Regardless of the reasons, his exit has reverberated as a shock for YSRCP cadres and leaders in the Kurnool district.
Gummanur Jayaram, minister, and MLA from Alur constituency, has taken an unexpected turn by leveling serious allegations against party supremo Jagan. Despite serving in Jagan’s cabinet, Jagan’s decision to field Jayaram as Kurnool MP, against his wish, was met with serious comments against Jagan and the party. Speculation now swirls about his potential departure from the YSRCP.
This month also witnessed Rayadurgam MLA Kapu Ramchandra Reddy resigning from the YSRCP, citing betrayal by the party. However, it is the departure of cricketer Ambati Rayudu that has garnered considerable attention, given his celebrity status as a sports star. Rayudu’s swift exit from the party within ten days of joining, followed by a meeting with Pawan Kalyan, has left YSRCP supporters grappling with the situation.
Rumors within political circles suggest that the underlying reason for these defections is the exorbitant demands for funds from Jagan in exchange for MLA and MP tickets. The reluctance of leaders to contribute substantial funds is seen by some as an indication of waning confidence in the party’s electoral prospects.
Amidst these high-profile exits, there are lingering speculations about more leaders contemplating a departure from the YSRCP. Analysts interpret this exodus as a foreboding sign of impending disaster for the ruling party in the forthcoming elections.
The irony is stark when considering the YSRCP’s ambitious “Why not 175?” campaign just a few months ago, hinting at winning all 175 MLA seats in Andhra Pradesh. Now, faced with a growing exodus of leaders, the party finds itself navigating a challenging political landscape, with the outcome of the upcoming elections hanging in the balance. The next couple of months may witness even more surprising twists in the political landscape of Andhra Pradesh. We need to wait and see!!
