As announced earlier, YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leader and Rajya Sabha Member V Vijayasai Reddy submitted his resignation to Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar in New Delhi on Saturday. Reddy’s departure, citing “personal reasons,” comes after two terms in the Upper House and follows recent speculation about his future political course. He had previously announced his retirement from politics on Friday, denying any intention to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Speaking to the media after his resignation, Reddy reaffirmed his commitment to Hindu Dharma and his devotion to Lord Venkateshwara, stating, “In my long political career, I have never lied,” while dismissing rumours of aligning with the BJP. He further clarified that his resignation was driven by personal reasons, not any external pressure or desire for another position, and he expressed deep gratitude to the YSR family for their support over four decades.
Reddy’s resignation follows an ongoing investigation by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) regarding his alleged involvement in the Kakinada Sea Port case. He rejected any suggestion that his decision was an attempt to evade legal scrutiny, asserting, “If I quit politics, I will be weak, not strong. Why would anyone close the cases on me if I resign?”
YSRCP reacted to Reddy’s resignation with a statement expressing respect for his decision while making it clear that they did not approve of his departure. The party described him as a pillar of strength, having stood by the party through both challenging and triumphant times. “Even though we do not approve of your decision, we still respect your choice,” said the party in a post on ‘X’. YSRCP also expressed respect for Reddy’s desire to shift his focus to agriculture, a field he has expressed interest in pursuing.
Despite Reddy’s decision, party leaders like Maddila Gurumoorthy urged him to reconsider, stressing the importance of unity in securing the re-election of Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. Gurumoorthy, speaking outside Reddy’s residence, highlighted that experienced leaders like Reddy were crucial for the party’s future. In response, Reddy said he would “think and talk about it.”
Former minister K Goverdhan Reddy praised Vijayasai Reddy for his courage and determination, recalling his significant role in securing Jagan Mohan Reddy’s position as Chief Minister despite facing challenges from political adversaries. Goverdhan Reddy reiterated that YSRCP valued Reddy’s contributions and would continue to do so, regardless of his final decision.
Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president YS Sharmila commented on the development, pointing to Reddy’s long-standing association with Jagan Mohan Reddy and questioning why several of his close associates were leaving the YSRCP. She alleged that the Chief Minister had deceived the people and lost credibility as a leader.
As Reddy embarks on his plans outside of politics, YSRCP remains hopeful that he will reconsider his decision, while the political landscape in Andhra Pradesh watches closely for any further developments
Vijayasai steps down as RS MP
