Article Today, Vijayawada:
The Y.S. family, long at the centre of Andhra Pradesh politics, is preparing to see another member enter public life. Y.S. Raja Reddy, son of Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee president Y.S. Sharmila and nephew of Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, was presented to the public in Kurnool. Sharmila confirmed that her son would step into politics when the time required.
From Private Life to Public Arena
Until now, Raja Reddy had largely remained away from political activity, focusing on academics and family responsibilities. His appearance alongside his mother at the Kurnool market yard, where they met onion farmers, marked his first significant political outing. Before the visit, he also sought the blessings of his grandmother, Y.S. Vijayamma. Sharmila’s remarks to the media during the programme suggested that her son was being gradually prepared for a political role.
Reactions within YSRCP
The move has sparked concern among leaders of the ruling YSR Congress Party. Some expressed unease that Raja Reddy, if he follows the political style of his grandfather Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, could emerge as a strong alternative within the family. With Mr. Jagan Mohan Reddy having two daughters, speculation is rising that Sharmila may project her son as the political heir to the family legacy.
A New Chapter in Family Politics
Observers recall that Sharmila herself once played an active role when Jagan was in political difficulty, often described as the arrow released by her brother. Now, with Raja Reddy’s introduction, political circles suggest that he could become the “arrow released by Sharmila.” Discussions in Kadapa district already point to a potential contest between the uncle and nephew in the years ahead. The nature of Raja Reddy’s political steps remains to be seen.
