Andhra CM Meet With Modi Triggers Speculation Of His Party Joining NDA But Here's Why BJP Might Resist It

Under pressure on a couple of issues, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jaganmohan Reddy has been frequently visiting New Delhi to meet either Prime Minister Narendra Modi or his key ministers such as Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

The frequent meetings have given rise to speculations that probably his YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) is working on a quid-pro-quo to join the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the Centre and Reddy have been non-committal, though.

Yesterday (6 October), Reddy had a 40-minute meeting with Modi, setting off speculations again.

But media reports said that the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister had sought the support of the Centre for his three capitals proposal. The proposal - to have separate legislative, judicial and executive capitals - has run into a hurdle with the Andhra Pradesh High Court hearing a case against it.

The High Court has ordered a status quo on the proposal, though Reddy would like it to go on stream as soon as possible.

Media reports quoted a party functionary as saying that Reddy briefed the Prime Minister on the political atmosphere in his State and legal problems in implementing various decisions.

Reports quoted an official in Reddy’s office as saying that the Chief Minister had sought financial assistance from the Centre for the State. He also sought funds that were assured to his State under the AP Reorganization Act.

The United Progressive Alliance government had assured financial assistance to Andhra Pradesh when Telangana was carved out of it to make up for the revenue losses.

A few days ago, Reddy had met Amit Shah but details of the meeting have been sketchy. Then, a section of the media reported that the Home Minister had expressed concern over the damages caused to temples in Andhra Pradesh.

Though media is speculating on YSRCP joining NDA, the question is will the BJP accept such a move.

No doubt, some of the NDA allies such as Shive Sena and Shiromani Akali Dal have left the alliance on one excuse or the other. But will the BJP risk its political fortunes by joining hands with Reddy?

There are a couple of reasons why the BJP might not want Reddy in NDA.

One, the BJP is emerging as a force to reckon with in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

Two, the YSCRP government has been accused of shutting its eyes to the activities of Christian missionaries who are now reportedly indulging in conversions.

Three, the attacks on temples have resulted in the BJP attacking the State government bitterly and demanding prompt action. In these circumstances, it is anyone’s guess why Reddy would be allowed to join NDA.

Probably, the NDA or Prime Minister Modi can seek an assurance from Reddy to help them pass key laws, particularly in the Rajya Sabha where the ruling coalition’s strength could be tested.