Former YSR Congress minister Sidiri Appalaraju, once considered a politically fortunate figure, is now experiencing the harsher realities of politics after his defeat in the recent elections.
A practicing doctor in Palasa, Sidiri was spotted by Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy during the latter’s padayatra and was rewarded with an MLA ticket.
Riding the YSRCP wave, he not only won the seat but was also made a minister within a year — a rapid rise that brought him into Jagan’s inner circle. For four years, he served as a minister and was known for his assertive political style.
However, that very assertiveness created friction, not only with the opposition but also within his own party.
In Palasa, the YSRCP split into two factions, indirectly benefiting the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), which ultimately led to Sidiri’s defeat.
Post-election, things have only worsened for him. In a recent incident that shocked party circles, the Palasa CI allegedly used abusive language against the former minister.
What surprised many more was the silence from YSRCP leaders — both from the district and his own constituency.
No one stepped up to condemn the incident or support him, raising questions about whether Sidiri has now been politically isolated.
There is growing chatter that Sidiri must re-evaluate his political approach if he wants to remain relevant. For now, the former minister appears to be standing alone.
