12-july-2025,12:30 PM In a fierce political attack, former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy has accused the newly elected CM Chandrababu Naidu of ruthlessly “crushing democracy” in the state. The explosive remarks were made during a press conference held by the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), in which Jagan Mohan Reddy criticised the new government’s alleged undemocratic practices, misuse of power, and systematic targeting of opposition leaders and supporters.
This confrontation adds yet another chapter to the long-standing political rivalry between Jagan Mohan Reddy and Chandrababu Naidu, with the two leaders often at odds over governance, development priorities, and democratic principles.
Jagan Mohan Reddy : Outburst Against Naidu’s Administration
This is not governance, this is vengeance,” says Jagan Mohan Reddy
Addressing media and party workers, Jagan Mohan Reddy lashed out at Chandrababu Naidu’s early actions as Chief Minister, accusing him of misusing administrative power to suppress dissent. He claimed that opposition workers were being unjustly detained, YSRCP’s welfare schemes were abruptly discontinued, and bureaucratic neutrality was being compromised.
“This is not governance. This is a political vendetta. The very soul of democracy is being suffocated,” Jagan Mohan Reddy said, his tone firm and accusatory.
He further added that democracy in Andhra Pradesh is being systematically dismantled, with institutions being manipulated to silence the opposition.
Jagan Mohan Reddy : Allegations of Police Harassment and Political Targeting
Jagan Mohan Reddy alleged that several YSRCP leaders and grassroots workers were being harassed and threatened by police under direct instructions from the Chief Minister’s Office. According to him, homes of party workers were raided without cause, and multiple false FIRs were being filed to intimidate YSRCP loyalists.
Party officials also cited multiple instances of government orders being revoked without proper procedures, including flagship schemes initiated by the previous administration.
Democratic Norms Under Threat, Claims Jagan Mohan Reddy
Shutdown of Welfare Schemes Draws Criticism
A major part of Jagan Mohan Reddy’s criticism focused on the discontinuation of welfare schemes like Amma Vodi, Jagananna Vidya Deevena, and Aarogyasri Health Cards—which were considered hallmark social justice programs under the YSRCP regime. He alleged that the Naidu government is targeting poor and marginalized communities by halting these initiatives.
“Why punish the people for political differences? These schemes were lifelines for lakhs of families,” said Jagan Mohan Reddy, urging civil society to raise their voice.
Attack on Institutional Independence?
Jagan also highlighted what he described as an erosion of institutional independence, pointing towards recent bureaucratic transfers and appointments of known TDP sympathisers to key administrative positions. He alleged that Chandrababu Naidu’s return to power has triggered a wave of “administrative cleansing”, removing officials who were once neutral or aligned with YSRCP’s development agenda.
Political analysts believe such moves may lead to long-term distrust in governance if checks and balances are not respected.
The Political Rivalry Between Jagan Mohan Reddy and Chandrababu Naidu
Decade-Long Battle for Andhra’s Future
The animosity between Jagan Mohan Reddy and Chandrababu Naidu dates back more than a decade and has been one of the most intense rivalries in Indian regional politics. With both leaders representing starkly different visions for the state’s development, their clash goes beyond personal vendetta—it reflects deep ideological differences on governance, economy, and social welfare.
Jagan’s recent statement indicates that this rivalry is far from over. If anything, it’s becoming even more confrontational.
A War of Words or Deeper Political Strategy?
Many political observers view Jagan Mohan Reddy’s public attack not merely as an emotional reaction, but as a strategic positioning for a political comeback. With municipal and panchayat elections approaching, the YSRCP leader may be trying to consolidate his base by portraying the Naidu government as anti-people and anti-democratic.
According to political strategist R. Suresh,
“Jagan’s strong words are designed to mobilize public sentiment, especially in rural areas where his welfare schemes had maximum impact.”
Reactions and Counterattacks
TDP Dismisses Allegations as “Desperate Lies”
In response to Jagan Mohan Reddy’s comments, leaders from the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) dismissed the accusations as baseless and desperate, accusing the YSRCP of creating distractions to avoid facing the public’s verdict in the recent elections.
TDP’s spokesperson remarked,
“Chandrababu Naidu is restoring order, transparency, and fiscal discipline. Jagan Mohan Reddy should accept that people have rejected his misgovernance.”
The war of words is escalating on both sides, with party workers engaging in protests and social media clashes.
Public Divided Over the Ongoing Drama
Public sentiment in Andhra Pradesh remains divided. While some urban voters appreciate Chandrababu Naidu’s focus on reviving stalled infrastructure and industrial growth, many in rural areas express concern about the rollback of schemes that directly benefited them during the Jagan Mohan Reddy administration.
Political tensions are palpable, and the state seems headed into a highly polarised phase in its political discourse.
What Lies Ahead for Andhra Pradesh?
Governance or Political Tug-of-War?
Andhra Pradesh’s political climate is entering a crucial phase. The Naidu administration will be under close watch as it attempts to rebuild the state’s economy and investor confidence, but at the same time, it must ensure that governance does not become a tool of political vengeance.
On the other hand, Jagan Mohan Reddy is expected to continue his aggressive posture, likely adopting a more grassroots approach to reclaim lost ground.
Democracy’s Test in Andhra Pradesh
The accusations of “crushing democracy” will serve as a litmus test for Andhra Pradesh’s democratic resilience. Civil society, media, and judiciary will need to ensure that dissent is not silenced, that institutions remain free, and that the people’s voice continues to be heard—regardless of political changes.
As of now, Jagan Mohan Reddy has signalled his intent to remain a fierce opposition voice, while Chandrababu Naidu appears determined to chart a new course. Whether this results in constructive competition or political chaos remains to be seen.
Conclusion: A State on the Edge of Political Transformation
The political landscape in Andhra Pradesh has entered a phase of heightened confrontation, with Jagan Mohan Reddy’s latest comments raising serious questions about democratic health and political tolerance. His charge against CM Chandrababu Naidu of “ruthlessly crushing democracy” adds fuel to an already volatile political environment.
As the two giants continue to clash, the real question is: will Andhra Pradesh move toward progress or be consumed by political infighting? One thing is certain—Jagan Mohan Reddy is not stepping aside quietly, and this battle for the soul of Andhra politics is far from over.
Source : ANI
