Date: August 16, 2024

Bengaluru Frequent Trips by Jagan – A Growing Trend

Despite facing mounting criticism from political opponents for his frequent trips between Bengaluru and Vijayawada, YSR Congress Party president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy appears unfazed. As the weekend approached, Jagan once again packed his bags and headed back to Bengaluru. This marked his sixth visit to Bengaluru in just two months, stirring speculations and debates across political circles.

A Shift in Base: Why Bengaluru?

After a heavy defeat in the recent Andhra Pradesh assembly elections, Jagan Mohan Reddy seems to have shifted his primary base from Tadepalli in Andhra Pradesh to his palace. His regular trips between the two cities have drawn sharp criticism, with detractors claiming that the former chief minister is now acting more like a part-time politician. The frequent travels have also led to jokes from NDA supporters, who mockingly suggest that Jagan should get a “weekly pass” for his constant movement between Bengaluru and Vijayawada.

Jagan’s Frequent Trips to Bengaluru: Political Strategies or a Retreat?

In recent months, Jagan’s trips have been the subject of speculation. Earlier this week, Jagan landed in Vijayawada after spending a couple of days in Bengaluru. He visited Vizag for a two-day trip, reportedly to devise strategies for the upcoming MLC election. After participating in Independence Day celebrations on Thursday, Jagan wasted no time in flying back to Bengaluru before the weekend arrived.

A Drastic Shift in Approach

This new pattern of frequent trips is in stark contrast to Jagan’s past five years as Chief Minister. During his tenure, Jagan largely remained stationed in his Tadepalli palace and only occasionally traveled to Hyderabad. Surprisingly, Bengaluru was never part of his frequent destinations. Yet, since his electoral loss, the YSR Congress leader has made Bengaluru his second home.

Part-Time Politician?

Opponents argue that Jagan is no longer focused on Andhra Pradesh politics and has, instead, taken up a part-time role in the political landscape. However, sources close to Jagan suggest that his visits may be part of a larger strategy to stay politically relevant while also exploring alliances for future political moves.

Despite the criticism, Jagan continues his regular Bengaluru sojourns, seemingly unconcerned with the noise being made by his political adversaries. For now, Jagan’s actions suggest a focus on rebuilding his political career and laying the groundwork for the next chapter in Andhra Pradesh politics.