YSRCP Leader Jagan Mohan Reddy to Participate in Andhra Pradesh Assembly Budget Session
In a significant political development, YSRCP president and former chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has confirmed his attendance at the Andhra Pradesh assembly budget session, which commences on Wednesday. This decision marks a notable shift from his previous boycott of the monsoon session, signaling a strategic move to engage directly in legislative proceedings.
Coordinated Entry and Planned Protests
Jagan Mohan Reddy is set to lead a unified group of YSRCP legislators as they proceed from his bungalow to the assembly house for the governor's address to the joint session. The party has issued directives for all its MLAs and MLCs to assemble at his residence, ensuring a collective and organized entry. This coordinated effort underscores the party's intent to present a united front during the session.
During the governor's address, YSRCP members are expected to voice strong protests against two key issues: the recent arrests of party leaders and activists, and the contentious Tirumala laddu ghee matter. These protests are anticipated to highlight the party's grievances and challenge the ruling administration's actions, potentially setting a confrontational tone for the budget session.
Historical Context and LoP Status Dispute
Jagan's attendance follows a pattern of selective participation; he was present during the governor's address at the last budget session but opted to boycott the subsequent monsoon session. However, in a tactical move, the YSRCP allowed its members in the legislative council to attend that session, leveraging its majority in the upper house to maintain a legislative presence.
The core of the controversy revolves around Jagan's demand for the Leader of Opposition (LoP) status, a claim he has pursued vigorously after his party secured only 11 seats in the assembly. Speaker Ch Ayyanna Patrudu has rejected this demand, citing assembly rules that mandate a party must hold at least 15 percent of the total house strength to qualify for LoP status. In response, Jagan has escalated the matter by filing a writ petition in the high court, seeking judicial intervention to grant him the status.
Session Details and Future Uncertainties
The budget session is scheduled to begin with Governor S Abdul Nazeer addressing the joint session of the assembly and council at 10 am. This session is expected to continue until March 12, with Finance Minister P Keshav set to present the annual budget for the fiscal year 2026-27 on Saturday, outlining the state's financial priorities and allocations.
Despite Jagan's confirmed attendance for the initial proceedings, sources indicate that YSRCP members, including Jagan himself, might choose to skip the remaining parts of the session. This potential withdrawal could be influenced by the ongoing LoP status dispute or strategic considerations, adding an element of uncertainty to the political dynamics in the assembly.
As the session unfolds, all eyes will be on how the YSRCP navigates its protests and engagements, shaping the political narrative in Andhra Pradesh during this critical budget period.
