It has not even been a week since senior Congress leader and former minister Sake Sailajanath joined the YSR Congress Party in the presence of party president and former Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy.
Yet, within such a short period, Sailajanath has made certain remarks that are said to have caused considerable irritation to Jagan Mohan Reddy. The comments were about Jagan’s family, particularly his mother, Vijayamma, and sister, Sharmila.
Speaking to reporters in Anantapur, Sailajanath said that Vijayamma is still active in politics and has a fair understanding of political affairs.
“She should take up the leadership responsibilities of the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP),” he suggested.
He was responding to a question from journalists about the differences within Jagan's family.
Sailajanath expressed his deep respect for the late Y S Rajasekhara Reddy and said it was painful for him, as an admirer, to witness such disputes between siblings. He expressed hope that these issues would be resolved in due course.
“I am confident that Jagan will eventually sort out his differences with his sister Sharmila,” Sailajanath added.
Naturally, such comments from Sailajanath would be an irritant to Jagan, who is currently embroiled in a serious legal battle against his mother and sister.
Just a few days ago, Vijayamma and Sharmila filed counter-affidavits in the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), countering Jagan’s claims regarding the transfer of shares in Saraswati Power.
Vijayamma told the court that she was experiencing significant mental agony due to the legal battle against her own son, who, she alleged, was trying to usurp the family’s properties.
Sharmila also made harsh statements against Jagan, quoting her recent interaction with former Rajya Sabha member V Vijay Sai Reddy.
Sharmila accused Jagan of lacking character, credibility, values, and integrity, further alleging that he was being unjust to her children. She even claimed that Jagan had made statements questioning her character.
It is well known within YSRCP that Jagan does not tolerate any positive comments about Sharmila.
He has been clear that he doesn’t want anyone else from the family to remain active in politics, which is why he had Vijayamma step down from her role as the YSRCP honorary president.
Unsurprisingly, Jagan did not take it kindly when Sailajanath offered unsolicited advice, suggesting he reconcile with his sister and encourage his mother to take up a leadership role in the party.
