It is a known fact that popular political strategist and founder of Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) Prashant Kishor has played a crucial role in working out strategies for the victory of YSR Congress party led by Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy in the April 11 assembly elections in the state.
Apart from paying huge remuneration, Jagan has personally thanked Prashant and his team members for their commendable role during the elections, much before the announcement of results.
Unconfirmed reports said I-PAC is also doing consultancy work for Jagan after the formation of the government as well, especially for monitoring the performance of village volunteers and functioning of village secretariats, so that the government can take corrective measures from time to time, in the event of any loopholes.
But just because Prashant and his team had helped him in the last elections, it does not mean Jagan will blindly listen to whatever he tells, especially with regard to political decisions.
Prashant is now an independent politician associated with Janata Dal (U) of Nitish Kumar in Bihar and his team has now signed agreement with Aam Admi Party for the coming elections in Delhi.
Apparently, Prashant reportedly told all his friends in various political parties including Jagan, not to support the controversial Citizenship Amendment Bill as it was dangerous and detrimental to the secular fabric of the country.
In this regard, Prashant differed even with his own party leader Nitish Kumar, which supported the bill.
But Jagan has his own strategies in supporting the bill. First of all, he did not want to take any decision that would be seen as a confrontation with the Centre.
Since the YSRC is said to be trying to get into the National Democratic Alliance fold, it cannot afford to antagonise the Centre at this stage.
Secondly, there is little impact of the CAB or NRC in Andhra Pradesh, as the population of Muslim minorities is very less. There is hardly any protest in any part of the state after the passage of the bill.
So, Jagan felt there is nothing much to lose if he supports the bill and on the other hand, it will only benefit him in improving the relations with the Centre. That is why, he just ignored Prashant Kishor’s advice!