At last, YSR Congress party president and former Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy has decided to attend the first day of the upcoming state assembly budget session beginning Wednesday.
The budget session will commence with Governor S. Abdul Nazeer’s address to the joint sitting of the legislature.
A Business Advisory Committee (BAC) meeting will follow to determine the schedule, agenda, and duration of the session.
There has been uncertainty over whether the YSRCP would attend the session, as the party has been boycotting assembly proceedings since the 2024 elections.
However, during a recent meeting with party leaders, Jagan reportedly confirmed that he, along with YSRCP MLAs, would attend the Governor’s address on the opening day.
Sources indicate that YSRCP leaders have also made inquiries with assembly authorities regarding permission for Jagan’s vehicle to enter the assembly premises in his capacity as former chief minister. Legislative sources are said to have responded positively to the request.
Since the 2024 elections, YSRCP legislators have attended the assembly only for oath-taking and the Governor’s address, while continuing to boycott regular sessions. The party has been demanding official recognition as the Opposition in the House.
Party leaders said the decision to attend the opening day was taken as a mark of respect to the Governor’s office.
However, there are indications that YSRCP MLAs and MLCs may stage protests during the Governor’s address over alleged attacks on residences of party leaders.
After the assembly proceedings, Jagan is expected to hold a separate meeting with party MLAs and MLCs to outline future strategy.
Meanwhile, ruling coalition leaders have been criticising YSRCP legislators for skipping assembly sessions while continuing to draw salaries and allowances, and are reportedly considering action over their absence.
Political observers note that Jagan is preparing to intensify pressure on the government through both legislative and political strategies, and the decisions announced at the upcoming party meeting are being keenly watched.