Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, the Pulivendula MLA and leader of the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YCP), has reportedly decided to indirectly boycott the upcoming sessions of the Andhra Pradesh Assembly. Jagan, who held the position of leader of the house between 2019 and 2024, has chosen not to attend the current budget session. This decision has raised eyebrows and triggered political speculation about the reasons behind his absence.

A TDP spokesperson recently shared a post on social media, claiming that Jagan had set forth five demands before the government, which he said were necessary for his participation in the assembly. These demands, according to the TDP, are as follows:

1. Protocol on Par with the Chief Minister: Jagan allegedly requested that he be accorded the same level of protocol as the Chief Minister, which includes privileges that are typically reserved for the state's highest officeholder.

2. Z+ Category Security and Traffic Clearance: Jagan is said to have demanded Z+ category security, along with traffic clearance for his entire route whenever he travels to and from the assembly.

3. Additional Bulletproof Cars: In line with his security concerns, Jagan reportedly asked the government to provide additional bulletproof vehicles, with the associated costs to be borne by the state.

4. Recognition of YCP as the Opposition Party: Another demand was that YCP be formally recognized as the opposition party in the assembly, which would include the allocation of three rope parties (security personnel) specifically for his protection as the opposition leader.

5. Government Funding for Staff Allowances: Jagan also reportedly sought that the government cover the allowances, travel, and related costs for his OSD (Officer on Special Duty), secretary, and other staff members.

According to the TDP spokesperson, these demands were presented by Jagan in exchange for his participation in the assembly sessions. While these claims have been made by the TDP, it remains to be seen whether these demands are genuinely from Jagan himself or if they are politically motivated allegations. The YCP’s response to these allegations will likely shed more light on the situation.

This political development adds to the ongoing tension between the ruling YCP and the opposition TDP, with both sides continually exchanging barbs over political and procedural issues. It will be interesting to see how the YCP addresses these demands and whether Jagan’s absence from the assembly will affect the dynamics of the legislative sessions moving forward.