The name YSR seems to send shivers down the spine of the Telugu Desam Party.
Despite ruling for just five years, YSR left an indelible mark on the hearts of the people. His welfare schemes — Arogyasri, fee reimbursement, 108 & 104 ambulance services, farmer loan waivers, free electricity, and nine-hour daytime power supply — made him a beloved leader. It was his legacy that breathed life into the YSR Congress Party.
TDP strongly believes that without the name YSR, his political heir Jagan wouldn’t have gained public support.
Hence, they seem determined to erase the name from public memory, using their power to suppress it wherever possible. Critics argue that TDP and its allies are blatantly misusing their authority in this pursuit.
The latest instance? Overnight, YSR’s name was removed from the Vizag Cricket Stadium. No prizes for guessing who did it — any child could tell you. Those who fear the name YSR must have orchestrated this misdeed.
The stadium, previously named "Dr YSR ACA VDCA Cricket Stadium", now appears as "ACA VDCA Cricket Stadium", conspicuously erasing YSR’s reference.
Such actions will only strengthen YSR’s legacy rather than diminish it, say some people.
His imprint on the people’s hearts is permanent and so even his opponents must realize that his name cannot be erased from history, the critics say.
Similar attempts were made earlier — like removing YSR’s name from the lawn at Vizag Film Nagar Club, they recall.
Fans of YSR call these acts a reflection of anarchic governance, proving once again that power is temporary, but a leader’s legacy is eternal. Those attempting to erase YSR’s name might find themselves erased from history instead.