In a scathing critique of Andhra Pradesh’s Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy, Jana Sena Party (JSP) chief Pawan Kalyan accused Reddy of neglecting the state’s welfare in favor of personal interests. According to Kalyan, Reddy’s administration had misused sedition charges to silence dissenters, stifling voices against alleged corruption. Pawan Kalyan alleged that Reddy’s regime intimidated those who spoke out against corruption, using legal measures to suppress opposition.
Kalyan also criticized Reddy’s handling of state affairs, particularly regarding the promises made during the bifurcation and issues such as the privatization of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant. He claimed that Reddy’s focus was primarily on evading corruption charges, rather than fulfilling the obligations to the state and its people.
Furthermore, Kalyan highlighted instances of alleged corruption within the ruling party, citing specific cases of illegal activities. He accused Housing Minister Jogi Ramesh of involvement in bribery related to public works and condemned the YSRCP’s vengeful actions against JSP cadres who exposed illegal sand mining activities.
In response to these concerns, Pawan Kalyan announced the Jana Sena Party’s decision to withdraw support from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). He emphasized the importance of supporting the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) for the progress of Andhra Pradesh. Kalyan believed that the state needed the experience of the TDP and the dynamic energy of the JSP, indicating his intention to ally with the TDP for the upcoming elections.
The situation in Andhra Pradesh mirrored political shifts in Tamil Nadu, where the AIADMK parted ways with the BJP-led alliance. AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami cited the sentiments of party workers as the reason for this decision, emphasizing the party’s dedication to its members’ welfare and success.
Despite the strong statements made by Pawan Kalyan, there was confusion regarding the JSP’s official stance on its ties with the NDA. While there were indications of a departure, the party’s sources suggested that the leader’s support for the TDP did not necessarily mean a complete exit from the NDA. However, Kalyan’s emphasis on standing by PM Modi’s vision indicated a nuanced approach to the party’s political alliances.
The political landscape in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu was marked by shifting alliances and accusations of corruption, with parties making strategic decisions to align themselves with those they believed would best serve the interests of their states.
