As the nomination process for the upcoming elections in Andhra Pradesh is all set to commence in a week, there is a talk doing rounds in the YSR Congress party circles that party president and chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy might make drastic changes in four or five constituencies, both Lok Sabha and state assembly.
Though there is no official confirmation from the party leadership so far, the names of changed candidates are in circulation on social media.
It is not immediately known whether is any truth in it or it is just a speculation based on the recent developments.
One such major change that is being talked about is that of YSR Congress party MP candidate from Kadapa Y S Avinash Reddy.
With Jagan’s sister Y S Sharmila entering the fray as the Congress candidate in Kadapa and targeting Avinash Reddy directly in the Vivekananda Reddy murder case, the contest has become tough.
Apparently, Jagan thought these developments might affect Avinash Reddy chances and would have far reaching effect on the prospects of the party in the district. So, he is considering dropping Avinash Reddy from the contest.
The speculation is that Jagan might rope in young leader from the family Dr Y S Abhishek Reddy, who has been actively involved in the party activities in Pulivendula. Abhishek is the grandson of Y S Prakash Reddy, elder brother of Avinash Reddy’s father Y S Bhaskar Reddy.
Similarly, Jagan is said to be contemplating changing the Kurnool MP candidate. At present, former mayor B Y Ramaiah has been named as the candidate; and now, he would be replaced by former minister K E Prabhakar, who is all set to quit the TDP and jump into the YSRCP.
He may also change Guntur MP candidate – Kilaru Rosaiah and replace him with Vidadala Rajini, who is presently the party candidate for Guntur (West) assembly seat. Now, Rosaiah might be moved to her seat.
In Chilakaluripet, which is presently represented by Rajini, the YSRCP has earlier named Kavati Manohar Naidu. He may be replaced by Marri Rajasekhar.
The other changes that are in circulation are: Jogi Ramesh in place of Tirupati Rao in Mylavaram; Pothina Mahesh in place of Sheik Asif in Vijayawada (West); Pamula Rajeshwari in place of Vipparthi Venugopal in P Gannavaram in Konaseema district; Simhadri Chandrasekhar in place of Simhadri Ramesh in Avanigadda and Reddappagari Ramesh Kumar Reddy in place of Gadikota Srikanth Reddy in Rayachoti.
Whether these are mere speculations or the party really has any plans to effect these changes is not yet known.