The Andhra Pradesh Lok Sabha Elections and Assembly elections featured a three-way contest between the ruling YSRC party, the Congress-led INDIA coalition, and the BJP-led NDA alliance, which includes Chandrababu Naidu’s TDP and Pawan Kalyan’s Jana Sena Party (JSP).
As the NDA-led TDP has garnered support and secured a victory, Jagan Mohan Reddy has failed to gain the people’s backing this time.
There could be several reasons for this outcome:
- Jagan’s Freebies During Financial Crisis
During Jagan Mohan Reddy’s tenure, Andhra Pradesh’s financial health has been a critical issue, with the state struggling under a massive debt of Rs 13.5 lakh crore, worsened by Reddy’s extensive welfare schemes known as ‘navaratnalu’ (nine gems).
Although these initiatives were popular in past elections, they now seem inadequate in addressing the electorate’s broader concerns. Exit polls indicate voter frustration over issues like inadequate infrastructure, unreliable power supply, lack of drinking water, high electricity bills, and soaring prices of essential commodities.
Furthermore, Jagan Mohan Reddy’s promise of job creation remains largely unfulfilled, contributing to rising unemployment and public discontent.
- Outreach to Backward Classes Sparks Anger
Jagan Mohan Reddy’s initiatives targeting the backward classes have drawn considerable criticism. His administration’s attempts to attract this demographic through various incentives and maintaining a 4% reservation for Muslims have come under scrutiny.
However, his reluctance to provide similar benefits to the Kapu community, a substantial demographic, has generated discontent. These actions, often branded as “favoritism towards minorities” by opponents, might have distanced important voter demographics. - Selection of Election Candidates
Adding to his hurdles, Jagan Mohan Reddy’s approach to choosing candidates for the concurrent Assembly and Lok Sabha elections has stirred dissatisfaction within the YSRCP. In anticipation of anti-incumbency, he opted to replace or relocate numerous incumbent MLAs, resulting in the exclusion of 14 sitting MPs and 37 MLAs from the candidate roster.
This decision has triggered widespread discontent among party leaders and members, leading to a wave of defections to rival parties. In recent months, the YSRCP has witnessed defections from at least six sitting MPs. - Surge of Support for Chandrababu Naidu
The arrest of Chandrababu Naidu in September 2023, on allegations related to a scam during his tenure as Chief Minister involving the State Skill Development Corporation, elicited significant sympathy for the seasoned leader.
Naidu’s two-month incarceration sparked protests and widespread public outcry, strengthening his support base. This wave of sympathy has played a pivotal role in rejuvenating his political prospects.
In addition, Naidu’s son, Nara Lokesh, rallied support for the TDP through his padayatra (foot march), commencing on January 27 from Chittoor district’s Kuppam — a constituency his father has represented since 1989. - Power Star Boosts TDP’s Revival Amid BJP Influence
The TDP is projected to emerge as the leading party in Andhra Pradesh, thanks to its strategic alliances. The influential presence of ‘Power Star’ Pawan Kalyan, leader of the Jana Sena Party, has been instrumental in invigorating the TDP’s campaign.
Kalyan, renowned for his sizable and youthful fan following, played a crucial role in forming a tripartite alliance with the TDP and BJP to challenge the YSRCP. His unwavering support for Naidu during the latter’s incarceration, notably his visit to the jail, resonated with voters, enhancing the coalition’s appeal.
Furthermore, the NDA alliance received a boost from the BJP’s participation, which facilitated the consolidation of Kamma-Kapu votes. The Kammas, traditionally aligned with the TDP due to Naidu’s community connections, comprise about 5% of the state’s population. Meanwhile, Kalyan’s Kapu community, constituting approximately 18%, also contributed significantly to the alliance’s potential success.
Also Read: Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Congress Leader Charanjit Singh Channi Secures Win From Jalandhar