How Jagan Mohan Reddy’s deep ties with aide Vijayasai Reddy turned into bad blood
Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, the powerful leader of Andhra Pradesh’s YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), once shared a strong bond with his aide V. Vijayasai Reddy. Their relationship was built on decades of trust and loyalty. However, that close alliance has now turned sour, exposing the fragile nature of political friendships.
The Beginning of a Strong Alliance
Vijayasai Reddy’s connection with the YSR family began in the 1980s. As a Chartered Accountant, he served as a financial advisor to Y. S. Rajashekara Reddy, Jagan’s father and former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. Vijayasai’s role was vital. He managed party funds and handled complex financial matters with care. This built a foundation of trust between him and the YSR family.
When YSR died unexpectedly in 2009, Andhra Pradesh’s political scenario shifted dramatically. Jagan Mohan Reddy emerged as a new political force. Throughout these turbulent times, Vijayasai stood firmly by Jagan’s side. He became a senior strategist and managed party affairs when Jagan was imprisoned in 2012 due to allegations of disproportionate assets. His management helped the YSRCP survive and grow during these challenging years.
Legal Troubles and Rising Tensions
Despite their close bond, legal issues put their relationship under strain. Both Jagan and Vijayasai faced a disproportionate assets case from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The case accused them of illegal wealth accumulation during YSR’s tenure. Vijayasai was arrested but later released on bail. However, the investigation continued for years, casting a long shadow over both leaders.
In addition to this, Vijayasai faced accusations related to pressuring the owners of Kakinada SeaPorts. Reports claimed he tried to force them to sell their shares below market value. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) questioned him about these allegations. Such scrutiny fueled speculation about his influence and role in business deals tied to Jagan’s political interests.
Signs of a Fracturing Relationship
Over time, the once-solid relationship between Jagan and Vijayasai began to show cracks. While they publicly maintained unity, tensions brewed beneath the surface. Vijayasai reportedly felt sidelined by a powerful “coterie” around Jagan. This inner circle seemed to dominate decision-making and limited Vijayasai’s access to the Chief Minister.
Vijayasai’s attempts to speak directly with Jagan were often blocked by intermediaries. This created frustration and eroded the trust between them. The influence of the coterie grew stronger, leaving Vijayasai increasingly isolated within the party.
The Break and Public Fallout
The situation reached a breaking point in early 2025. Vijayasai announced his resignation from active politics. His statement shocked many. He cited a loss of trust in Jagan and blamed the coterie for ruining the party’s internal democracy. Vijayasai warned that Jagan’s political future was at risk if he did not remove these close aides.
This public criticism was rare and damaging. Vijayasai had long been seen as one of Jagan’s most loyal allies and a key strategist. His departure not only marked a personal split but also raised concerns about the party’s unity.
Impact on YSRCP and Andhra Politics
Vijayasai’s resignation has had significant consequences. Internally, it created a leadership gap within the YSRCP, especially in Delhi, where Vijayasai was the party’s main voice. His exit weakens the party’s presence on the national stage. Opposition parties have already seized on this development to question YSRCP’s stability.
The incident also highlights the risks of concentrating power in the hands of a few. Critics argue that Jagan’s reliance on a small group limits fresh ideas and alienates other leaders. This could harm the party’s long-term prospects.
Vijayasai’s Future and Political Landscape
Despite rumors, Vijayasai has denied plans to join other parties. He insists there is no going back to the YSRCP. His future remains uncertain, but he may play a role as an independent political voice or a social influencer in Andhra Pradesh.
The break between Jagan and Vijayasai serves as a reminder of how political alliances can change. Trust, loyalty, and shared goals bind leaders, but power struggles and internal conflicts can tear them apart.
Lessons from the Rift
The split offers important lessons. Political leadership requires managing both power and relationships carefully. Jagan must now decide whether to rebuild trust and open his leadership circle. Ignoring dissent may cause more damage.
For Vijayasai, leaving politics might mean starting a new chapter outside the party. His departure shows that even long-term alliances are fragile when trust breaks down.
Their story illustrates the complex nature of politics. It is not just about winning elections but also about maintaining strong, transparent bonds with allies.
