Vijay Sai Reddy has come forward, revealing the influence of a powerful inner circle surrounding Andhra Pradesh CM Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy.
He stated, “Jagan’s future will be tough if he continues to rely on these people.”
Sai Reddy, who recently left the YSRCP, clarified, “Jagan accused me of bowing to political pressure, but in truth, I stepped away because of those around him.”
Ironically, until a few months ago, Vijay Sai Reddy was part of this very group. However, he eventually found himself at odds with its ecosystem, leading to his exit and current criticism.
It is well known how this coterie has taken control of crucial layers in the system.
Party workers, MLAs, and even MPs struggle to meet Jagan directly because of strategic barriers created by this group.
If someone gains Jagan’s favor, they are seen as a threat and are promptly distanced from him. Many close to Jagan but not aligned with the coterie have been sidelined.
Had Vijay Sai Reddy recognized this phenomenon during Jagan’s five-year rule, he could have taken corrective action. Did he ever challenge it? If he did and Jagan ignored him, it suggests that Sai Reddy had less influence over Jagan than the coterie members did.
During his tenure, how many party workers, MLAs, or ministers managed to meet Jagan through Vijay Sai Reddy? Many insiders believe that, despite his good intentions, he too was restricted by the system.
Vijay Sai Reddy's revelations about the coterie seem valid. The irony, however, is that despite numerous warnings - even party's no#2 now left the party - Jagan remains blind to these concerns. He appears so dependent on this group that he cannot break free.
Even the party’s media coordination department is reportedly under the coterie’s control. Despite the backlash, these individuals refuse to step down.
Insiders suggest they cling to Jagan, manipulating his decisions, because they have no better prospects outside of his shadow.
Loyal party members who once placed their faith in Jagan are now disheartened. Leaders have lost their authority, reduced to mere figureheads, while the coterie has amassed vast wealth.
This is the stark reality within the YSRCP - where Jagan’s power is overshadowed by a deeply entrenched inner circle controlling the party’s future.
Madhunandan Akkishetty