The BJP-led Centre is seeking a faithful friend after Shiv Sena, Shiromani Akali Dal have withdrawn from the National Democratic Alliance. The exit of the above parties from the alliance will have no effect on the BJP at the moment since the saffron party bagged more than 300 seats in the 2019 elections.
BJP is scouting for friends and has set its eyes on Telugu speaking states. The ruling YSRCP maintains cordial relations with the Centre, unlike the TRS. While, Telangana CM KCR took an anti-BJP stand by lambasting the Centre over the contentious farm bills, installation of meters on pump sets and GST dues, AP CM YS Jagan has remained mum on all issues.
Centre’s assistance needed for Jagan…
Jagan is facing trials in the disproportionate assets case. With the hearing likely to come up soon, he is in dire need of help from the Centre. Following amicus curiae to Supreme Court, cases against MLAs and MPs will now be taken up on a fast track basis and hence it is expected that YSRCP supremo would offer his total support to the BJP. CM Jagan’s meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his earlier discussion with Home Minister Amit Shah have triggered speculations of YSRCP joining the NDA. Interestingly, there are no comments from both parties following the meet.
Backtracking on a major promise
Reports from New Delhi indicate that Jagan might’ve informed Modi- Shah duo that joining hands with the NDA without obtaining Special Category status for AP would be disastrous for the YSRCP. Also, it would amount to Jagan backtracking on a major poll promise made by him prior to the 2019 elections. This would also lead to the YSRCP facing a similar situation that the Nara Chandrababu Naidu-led TDP had faced earlier.
