Vijayasai Reddy’s political exit: What it means for YSRCP’s future

Since the inception of YSRCP, and even before that, M Vijayasai Reddy has been the closest and most trusted confidant of the YS family. He is the fourth Rajya Sabha member to resign from YSRCP

Srinivas Vedulla

Published Jan 27, 2025 | 9:24 AM ⚊ Updated Jan 27, 2025 | 9:24 AM

Vijayasai Reddy's political exit: What it means for YSRCP's future (@VSReddy_MP on X)

In a turn of events, M Vijayasai Reddy, once considered the closest ally of YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) chief Jaganmohan Reddy, announced his exit from politics.

This move has sent shockwaves through the party, raising questions about his next steps and the future of YSRCP, and whether Reddy will become an approver in multiple CBI and ED cases involving allegations of financial wrongdoing against Jagan

A long-time confidant of the YS Family

Vijayasai Reddy has been a loyal and influential figure in the YSRCP since its inception, and his relationship with Jaganmohan Reddy has been pivotal to the party’s rise.

Reddy, who was once the general secretary of the party and served two terms in the Rajya Sabha, played a central role in managing party affairs, particularly in the Uttarandhra region.

However, his tenure has been marred by allegations of land grabbing, encroachments, and financial improprieties during Jagan’s term as chief minister from 2019-2024.

Allegations of land grabbing and corruption

Reddy’s name has been repeatedly linked to land scams in Visakhapatnam, where he is accused of acquiring government lands at throwaway prices and selling them at exorbitant rates.

These allegations intensified following Jagan’s announcement that Visakhapatnam would be developed as the state’s executive capital.

Reddy is accused of facilitating the transfer of 1,500 acres of commercial land in Madhurawada to a minister’s relative.

Allegations also suggest that his family, including his daughter and son-in-law, used their influence to threaten and intimidate people around Bhogapuram Greenfield Road, where they are suspected of having purchased land at inflated prices after the road’s alignment was changed.

Despite these allegations, no major investigations or legal actions were taken during Jagan’s tenure, which has raised questions about political protection and favouritism within the party.

Reddy’s exit and its impact on YSRCP

Reddy’s resignation has fuelled speculation about the future of YSRCP, with political experts suggesting that his departure could signal a larger shift within the party.

Reddy, who has been at the center of Jagan’s political operations, played a crucial role in connecting the YSRCP with key political players, including BJP leaders, even as Jagan faced multiple legal cases. His exit raises questions about whether he intends to join the BJP, which has been gaining traction in Andhra Pradesh in recent months.

A senior TDP MLA remarked, “Reddy’s role was crucial in bridging the gap between Jaganmohan Reddy and BJP leaders. His departure signals that YSRCP’s grip on the political landscape may be loosening.”

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Reddy’s political exit

Three primary factors appear to have led to Reddy’s exit:

Legal troubles and CBI/ED cases: Reddy, along with Jaganmohan Reddy, is under investigation for financial crimes, including land grabbing and corruption. With the coalition government now focusing on these issues, Reddy may have seen his departure as a way to distance himself from the fallout, particularly as the investigations intensify.
Isolation within YSRCP: After Jagan’s electoral victory, Reddy reportedly became sidelined within the party. Other leaders, such as Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy and Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy, gained prominence, leaving Reddy with little influence. This alienation could have prompted him to contemplate a shift to BJP, where he may find political relevance and protection.
Political realignments: Reddy’s resignation follows a trend of other Rajya Sabha members from YSRCP exiting the party. Recently, three Rajya Sabha members—Beeda Mastan Rao, Mopidevi Venkataramana, and R Krishnaiah—resigned, with Krishnaiah joining the BJP and the others aligning with TDP. Reddy’s move is seen as part of a larger political realignment, with rumours circulating that more YSRCP leaders may follow suit.

Reddy’s statement and future plans

Vijayasai Reddy, in his resignation statement, denied any ulterior motive, stating, “I am resigning from my position because I believe someone more capable should take over. The allegations against me regarding corruption and illegal wealth accumulation are false. My decision is purely personal.”

A key YSRCP leader and former minister from the united Godavari district told South First that Reddy’s resignation is a strategic move, as he has been rumoured to have long-term plans to join the BJP, a party that could offer him greater protection from ongoing investigations.

“It has been postponed for years due to Chandrababu Naidu’s obstruction. Recently, when Amit Shah came to Vijayawada, he convinced Chandrababu Naidu. With this, Vijayasai Reddy’s green signal has come. He will join after a few years,” the leader said.

This theory is further supported by Vijayasai Reddy’s previous statements about preparing YSRCP for upcoming elections, coupled with recent reports that Reddy had been in talks with BJP leaders, including Amit Shah.

(Edited by Ananya Rao)