During the five-year tenure of YS Jagan Mohan Reddy as Chief Minister, he exercised power with a status befitting his position, often providing explanations in front of the media.
Government Advisor Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy frequently stepped in during important events or political developments in the state.
When the people of the state expected Chief Minister Jagan to respond and address the media, it was usually Sajjala who came forward.
Whenever the public sought the Chief Minister’s words, Sajjala would provide an explanation.
Moreover, in a TV channel interview, Sajjala revealed that Jagan is somewhat embarrassed to speak at press meetings. This tendency was evident not only during his tenure but also after stepping down from power.
Even when Jagan held a large-scale meeting with all the MLA candidates, it was observed that Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy and Jagan sat side by side and managed the affairs.
For five years, Sajjala was fondly called the "Sakala Sakhala Mantri (Minister of All Departments)" by his political opponents, but he was, in fact, exercised the power almost as the de facto Chief Minister.
However, it appears that Sajjala is now gradually being sidelined.
In very important matters where Jagan himself should come out and speak, as he remains silent, people expected Sajjala to step in and provide explanations on Jagan's behalf.
But the YCP is bringing forward other leaders, leading to speculation that Sajjala's influence is waning.
There is growing debate that the feedback given by Chief Advisor Sajjala, which failed to alert Jagan about the impending defeat and to steer the party to safety, is the reason for this shift. Currently, Sajjala is not given access even for important matters.
Pro-TDP newspapers published an article claiming that Jagan used 986 policemen for his security while he was Chief Minister. This was seen as a direct attack on Jagan.
Typically, Jagan or Sajjala would address such allegations, confirming that fake news was being propagated. But it is Perni Nani who came forward to address this issue.
However, Sajjala not talking even on this important matter suggests that he is being sidelined.
