Cockroach Janata Party continues its strong protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Meanwhile, Delhi Police arrested CJP leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka. Both leaders currently remain in judicial custody. Opposition groups have protested against the development. However, former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has now changed his position. Reddy, who supports the NDA government in Parliament, has extended support to CJP.
Reddy expresses regret over Election Commission decision
Reddy also expressed regret over the decision concerning the Election Commission. His support has triggered speculation about possible coordination with Left parties. However, nobody has officially confirmed any such reason yet.
According to media reports, Reddy said, “We now feel regret.” He added, “We realised that we should not have agreed with that process.” The process allows a three-member committee to select the Election Commissioner. That panel includes the Prime Minister and one leader chosen by the PM. It also includes the Leader of Opposition.
Moreover, Reddy demanded a change in the law. He also sought the inclusion of India’s Chief Justice in the committee.
YSRCP explains its issue-based support to NDA
A YSRCP leader also spoke to The Indian Express about the party’s position. The leader said, “We support the NDA on an issue-by-issue basis.” He added that people need greater assurance from the government regarding this matter.
YSRCP leader explains Andhra Pradesh position
The leader also explained the party’s reasoning from Andhra Pradesh’s political perspective. YSRCP currently sits in the opposition in the state. Therefore, the leader said the party should support those protecting affected voters.
According to him, authorities illegally removed those voters from electoral rolls. He also accused the TDP-led Andhra Pradesh government of taking advantage of the state Election Commission. Furthermore, he alleged that the commission works according to the government’s directions.
Reddy’s support for CJP therefore marks a notable shift around this issue. At the same time, YSRCP continues to describe its NDA backing as issue-based.
