What does TDP's exit from NDA mean for Andhra politics?
What's the story
Andhra is entangled in the politics of intrigue.
Following his decision to withdraw from the NDA, Andhra CM Chandrababu Naidu has launched a frontal attack on PM Modi.
He has claimed that BJP used TDP's rivals to weaken the party and de-stabilize the state in an effort to create Tamil Nadu-type drama.
What is the TDP referring to? Here's more about it.
TDP-BJP relations
First off, how have Naidu's relations with NDA been?
Naidu-led TDP severed ties with NDA after being steamrolled by YSR Congress in 2004 Assembly elections.
However, before 2014 Assembly polls, Jaganmohan Reddy-led YSR Congress and BJP's popularity in Andhra's urban pockets forced Naidu to align with the latter. Riding on the Modi-wave, Naidu stormed to power.
But, he was dissatisfied with the portfolios given at Centre and lack of special aid to Andhra.
Do you know?
Was BJP also in talks with Jagan's YSR Congress?
Reportedly, BJP had continued back-channel communications with the opposing YSR Congress also. Jagan had supported BJP's presidential nominee. Further, he had given an explosive interview where he claimed that he is willing to support BJP, if Andhra is granted the special category status.
Intrigue
How are Naidu and Jagan trying to outsmart each other?
Now, Naidu and Jagan have been trying to outwit each other.
First, Jagan used the "special category status" card to claim that Naidu had compromised Andhra's interests.
Realizing the repercussions of this narrative, Naidu pulled his ministers out.
Then, even as Jagan was planning to bring in the no-confidence motion, Naidu turned the tables by exiting NDA and announcing the no-confidence motion.
Jagan's situation
How does this spoil the party for Jagan?
Naidu has pulled out of the NDA in a calibrated manner, placing the entire onus of the "divorce" on BJP's inability to understand its coalition partner's needs and colluding with opposition forces.
Now, if Jagan tries to align with the BJP, it will be seen as "a betrayal." He will now have to fight a lone battle in the next polls.
TN similarity
So, how is this similar to TN politics?
In TN, BJP allegedly tried to make inroads by orchestrating the patch-up between AIADMK's CM Palaniswami and rebel-leader Panneerselvam's factions. However, as governance suffered, BJP shifted its attention to new-entrant superstar Rajinikanth.
Similarly in Andhra, they apparently colluded with YSR. After that failed, Naidu insists that BJP has put its weight behind Jana Sena president Pawan Kalyan, who recently accused the CM of corruption.