Article Today, Hyderabad/Amaravati:
Former Chief Ministers of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and K. Chandrashekar Rao, appear to be adopting a similar approach towards the legislatures. Both leaders have stayed away from the Assembly, triggering criticism from citizens and political observers. Their absence is being seen as reluctance to confront the ruling parties directly.
Public Discontent
Analysts point out that voters expected these leaders to voice public concerns inside the House. Instead, their decision to remain absent has created dissatisfaction among supporters. Critics question the purpose of electing them if they do not participate in debates and hold the government accountable.
Jagan’s Justification
During the opening of the Andhra Pradesh Assembly session, Mr. Jagan stated that the Opposition was not being given adequate time to speak. He argued that issues of public importance cannot be explained in a few minutes. He added that the YSR Congress would attend only if more time was allotted. He also remarked that the party did not insist on Opposition status, but wanted sufficient time for debate.
Comparison with Telangana
Observers note that Mr. Chandrashekar Rao has followed a similar path in Telangana. His continued absence from the Assembly has drawn parallels with Mr. Jagan’s stance. Critics argue that such strategies place political interests above public welfare and undermine democratic accountability.
Press Meets over Assembly
Mr. Jagan further explained that his party planned to highlight issues through press conferences since sufficient Assembly time was not available. Analysts, however, say that this reduces the importance of the legislature. They caution that confronting the government outside the House does not substitute for legislative debate.
Concerns on Democracy
Political commentators warn that distancing from the Assembly weakens representative democracy. They note that questioning the government on the floor of the House remains a constitutional responsibility. Avoiding this responsibility, they add, may erode public trust in elected representatives.
Threat of Disqualification
Mr. Jagan also raised concerns about threats of disqualification if members fail to attend sessions. He questioned why such rules were not enforced during earlier instances, referring to former Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s absence in the past. His remarks indicate unease within the YSR Congress over procedural issues.
Focus on the Council
At a party legislative meeting, Mr. Jagan directed YSR Congress MLCs to use their strength in the Legislative Council effectively. He asked them to raise public issues strongly in that forum. Analysts note that this reflects a shift in strategy, with greater attention on the Council while distancing from the Assembly.
