KTR once asked why is it necessary for a Chief Minister to meet the public directly? His view was that if the system is functioning correctly, there should be no need for the CM to directly interact with people. Even Jagan Mohan Reddy followed the same in his last five years rule.
However, the real benefits of CM's direct engagement with people should be understood.
Irrespective of the system, by meeting people face-to-face, the Chief Minister can grasp the severity of their everyday problems and understand the challenges they face. This direct connection provides an opportunity to introduce necessary changes or new policies and gain public approval. Furthermore, engaging directly with the people boosts the Chief Minister's personal popularity.
For example, YSR used to meet the public daily at his camp office, personally handling applications and ensuring follow up through the CM's office. This approach not only enhanced YSR's charisma but also led to the conceptualization of beneficial schemes like Arogyasree, Fee Reimbursement and 108.
Later, the CM camp office in Begumpet was established, but it was rarely open to the public. Rosaiah had his own camp office and Kirankumar Reddy did not frequently meet the public. KCR expanded the camp office but limited it to crucial review meetings, avoiding the interactions with people.
Under Revanth Reddy's tenure in Telangana now, he renamed Pragatibhavan, allocating space for public complaints and part of it for Deputy CM Bhatti Vikramarka's residence. But, he manages affairs and interactions from his own house unlike YSR who handled from camp office. The need for a dedicated camp office remains clear. Direct interaction with the public, personal approach and self evaluation of governance are crucial, but there seems to be a lack of interest in pursuing this from Revanth's side.
Same is the case with Jagan Mohan Reddy as well. Be it ruling tenure or in opposition, the one who spends time with people only becomes relevant in politics. Otherwise, the people soon distance anybody emotionally, who is not interacting with them.
One of the main reasons for Jagan Mohan Reddy's defeat can be atributed to this. It should also be recalled that YSR came to power for second time with his practice of being with public even when he was Chief Minister.
KCR, Jagan Mohan Reddy and Revanth Reddy should learn lessons from YSR in this regard.
Madhunandan Akkishetty
