In a significant political development, Gummanur Jayaram, Labour Minister and YSRCP MLA from Alur, Kurnool district, joined the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) during the BC Declaration program in Guntur. Accusing Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy of stifling the independence of SC, ST, BC, and minority legislators, Jayaram’s defection underscores growing discontent within the ruling party.
TDP leaders, including N. Chandrababu Naidu and Pawan Kalyan, welcomed Jayaram into their fold, emphasizing the need for unity among BC leaders. Atchannaidu, TDP State president, lambasted the YSRCP government for its alleged suppression of BCs, signaling heightened political tensions ahead of the upcoming elections. Jayaram’s swift removal from the State Cabinet following his defection underscores the YSRCP’s firm response to dissent within its ranks, highlighting the intense power struggle within Andhra Pradesh’s political landscape.