It looks like stage is set for the defection of Telugu Desam Party leader and former minister Shipa Mohan Reddy from Kurnool into the YSR Congress party.
Mohan Reddy, who met TDP president and Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday night, told him categorically that there was no question of withdrawing from the contest in the by-elections to Nandyal assembly seat which has fallen vacant due to the death of sitting MLA Bhuma Nagi Reddy.
“I contested the Nandyal elections in 2014 on TDP ticket. So, I will contest the elections again,” he made it clear to Naidu.
Mohan Reddy said he would not go against the wishes of his followers and cadre who want him to contest the elections.
“If I drop from the contest now, there will be severe revolt in the party cadres and it would ultimately damage the party,” he said.
Apparently, Mohan Reddy has made up his mind to quit the TDP, as Naidu told him that the ticket would be given only to the Bhuma family members.
“I will take a decision on my future course of action after discussing with my followers. But, my contest in Nandyal by-polls is certain,” he said.
Indications are that he might join the YSR Congress party in a day or two and file the papers on its behalf, whenever elections are held.
