Dhanunjaya Reddy: De Facto CM In Jagan’s Time

There are stories that an IAS who was in secretary post kept the Chief Secretary waiting. For that matter, anyone who had to meet Jagan, would have to meet him first. The person was Dhanunjaya Reddy who was the eyes and ears of ex CM Jagan. Now, he has been arrested in the AP liquor scam.

In short, Dhanunjaya Reddy was said to be the de facto CM during Jagan’s reign. The entire government ran under his directions and even MLAs, Ministers and MPs would have to wait for his approval. Dhanunjaya Reddy enjoyed such extensive powers, thanks to Jagan.

It is said even senior leaders like Botsa Satyanarayana were told to meet Dhanunjaya anna. He had the entire government machinery in his hands and was the kingpin behind various scams, money laundering and plum postings during Jagan’s government.

In 2019, as the results were being announced, Dhanunjaya Reddy appeared next to Jagan. He was made additional secretary and later elevated to secretary post. In fact, Jakkampudi Raja who quit the party said that Dhanunjaya Reddy and a few other officials totally ruined the system.

Dhanunjaya Reddy’s journey began with YS. He became a sarpanch due to his closeness to the YS family. Later, he got selected to DANICS service. Despite being in Delhi, he would oversee all the financial issues of the YS family. He later came to combined AP on deputation and was later promoted to IAS category.

From 2014-19, he held key posts under TDP government, but worked for YSRCP from the back, it is alleged. During YSR’s term, he would handle all key issues through whatsapp messages, it is said.

It is also alleged that Dhanunjaya Reddy played a key role in torturing, harassing the opposition leaders and cadre. He would give instructions to police about what
action to take, say YSRCP insiders.

His power was such that he is said to have played a vital role in the selection of candidates during 2024 elections.