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The political landscape of Andhra Pradesh continues to shift with the recent resignation of another prominent leader from the ruling YSR Congress Party (YSRCP). S A Rahman, a former MLA from Visakhapatnam, has submitted his resignation to party president and former chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy, citing dissatisfaction with recent developments within the party. This follows the resignation of Rajya Sabha member and Backward Classes leader R Krishnaiah just a day before, indicating a potential trend of discontent within the party.
Rahman, who previously served as the chairman of the Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority (VUDA), has been vocal in his criticism of the YSRCP government. He expressed concerns about the party's performance in various areas, specifically mentioning the conduct of the EAMCET exams. He stated that he could no longer continue to be associated with a party that he believes has failed on multiple fronts.
In a significant statement, Rahman hinted that the alliance government, which includes the YSRCP and its allies, appears to be more focused on the welfare of Muslims, suggesting that his future political path might lead him to the Telugu Desam Party (TDP). This statement carries significant weight considering Rahman's history with both parties. He had previously quit the TDP in 2019 due to disagreements regarding the three capitals issue and joined the YSRCP in 2020. His previous disagreements with the party leadership, specifically regarding the allocation of seats to Muslims during the 2019 elections, further highlight the potential shift in his political allegiances.
Rahman's decision to leave the YSRCP comes at a time when the party's base in Visakhapatnam seems to be weakening rapidly. Recently, over ten party corporators have shifted their loyalties, joining either the TDP or the Jana Sena Party (JSP). This shift in allegiance has resulted in a significant loss for the YSRCP in the standing committee elections. The alliance, composed of TDP and its allies, secured a clean sweep, winning all ten panel chief posts, while the YSRCP failed to secure any positions. This recent setback further emphasizes the growing discontent within the YSRCP and the potential for a significant shift in the political landscape of Visakhapatnam.
Rahman's resignation, coupled with the exodus of other leaders and the party's recent electoral losses, raises questions about the future of the YSRCP in Visakhapatnam. As the party grapples with internal dissent and mounting criticism, it remains to be seen how it will address the growing dissatisfaction within its ranks and whether it can regain its foothold in the region.