Senior YSR Congress Party leader and former Andhra Pradesh minister Kodali Nani on Wednesday met party president and former chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy, putting an end to speculation about his possible defection to the Bharatiya Janata Party.
After the 2024 Andhra Pradesh Assembly election results, several YSRCP leaders maintained a low profile. Kodali Nani was also among those who remained politically inactive for a considerable period.
The former MLA from Gudivada had been facing health issues and underwent treatment in Mumbai. Even after recovery, he stayed away from active politics in his home constituency.
However, political speculation intensified in March this year after Kodali Nani visited major temples, including the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, Kanaka Durga Temple and Srikalahasteeswara Temple, along with Maharashtra BJP MLA Mohan Mate and their families.
The visits triggered widespread speculation on social media and in political circles that Kodali Nani was preparing to quit the YSRCP and join the BJP.
Amid these rumours, Kodali Nani on Wednesday shared photographs of his meeting with Jagan Mohan Reddy at the latter’s Tadepalli residence.
In a social media post, Nani said they discussed the current political situation, public issues and strategies to strengthen the party.
Political observers viewed the post as a clear indication that Kodali Nani intends to remain with the YSRCP and continue supporting Jagan Mohan Reddy.
Sources close to Kodali Nani said the temple visits were purely personal and based on political acquaintances and friendships between leaders from different parties.
They also pointed out that Nani has continued sharing YSRCP-related activities on his social media platforms, indicating his continued loyalty to the party.
