Did Jagan Commit to Back NDA Over INDIA Bloc's Support?
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Synopsis
In a significant political maneuver, Jagan Mohan Reddy reaffirms his support for the NDA, leaving the INDIA bloc's Vice-Presidential candidate, Sudarshan Reddy, seeking answers. This decision could reshape alliances in Andhra Pradesh politics as criticisms unfold.
Key Takeaways
- Jagan Mohan Reddy's support for NDA remains strong.
- Sudarshan Reddy's appeal for support highlights political tensions.
- YSRCP's historical alignment with NDA signifies a consistent strategy.
- Criticism from allies indicates dissent within Andhra Pradesh politics.
- Implications for future elections are yet to unfold.
Amaravati, Aug 31 (NationPress) — Former Supreme Court Justice and INDIA bloc's Vice-Presidential candidate, B. Sudarshan Reddy, reached out to YSR Congress Party President and ex-Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, on Sunday, seeking his party's endorsement.
However, Jagan Mohan Reddy informed him that prior to the INDIA bloc's announcement of its candidate, the NDA had already contacted him for support regarding their nominee. He mentioned that he had previously committed his backing to the NDA.
As per a statement from YSRCP, the party leader expressed his personal admiration for Sudershan Reddy, acknowledging the invaluable contributions he has made to the nation through the judiciary.
"He commended Reddy for his pivotal role in upholding the Constitution and preserving the essence of democracy. However, he clarified that, due to his prior commitment to the NDA candidate, he would be unable to support the INDIA bloc's candidate in this election, requesting that this decision not be misinterpreted," the statement elaborated.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh secured YSRCP's support for NDA candidate C. P. Radhakrishnan after conversing with Jagan Mohan Reddy on August 18.
YSRCP Lok Sabha representative Maddila Gurumoorthy confirmed that the party, consisting of 11 MPs — four in the Lok Sabha and seven in the Rajya Sabha — plans to vote for Radhakrishnan.
Since 2017, YSRCP has consistently supported NDA candidates in Presidential and Vice-Presidential elections.
Although not officially a member of the NDA, YSRCP voted for Ram Nath Kovind and Droupadi Murmu during the Presidential elections in 2017 and 2022, respectively. The party also endorsed M. Venkaiah Naidu and Jagdeep Dhankar for the Vice-Presidential role.
In contrast, Jagan’s sister and Andhra Pradesh Congress unit President, Y.S. Sharmila Reddy, criticized YSRCP for its decision to back the NDA in the Vice-Presidential election, labeling YSRCP as the ‘B-team’ of the BJP and asserting that this decision revealed its "saffron scarf".
Sharmila further claimed that Jagan Mohan Reddy is not the true heir of the late Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy (YSR) but rather the adopted son of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Point of View
The ongoing political dynamics in Andhra Pradesh highlight the complexities of party alignments and voter expectations. Jagan Mohan Reddy's commitment to the NDA underscores a strategic choice that may influence future electoral outcomes and party cohesion.
NationPress
31/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main reason for Jagan's support for NDA?
Jagan Mohan Reddy had previously committed his support to the NDA candidate before the INDIA bloc announced its candidate.
How has YSRCP historically aligned with NDA?
YSRCP has consistently supported NDA candidates in Presidential and Vice-Presidential elections since 2017.
What has been the response from the opposition?
YS Sharmila Reddy criticized YSRCP's decision, labeling it as the 'B-team' of the BJP.
Who is Sudarshan Reddy?
B. Sudarshan Reddy is the Vice-Presidential candidate from the INDIA bloc and a former Supreme Court judge.
What does this mean for Andhra Pradesh politics?
This decision may alter political alliances and could have significant implications for future elections in the state.
