Peddireddy Rama Chandra Reddy was one of the strongest power centres in Jagan Mohan Reddy’s government. He was the only minister who held his portfolio through all five years of the YSR Congress rule.
During that time, he often issued strong statements about defeating Chandrababu Naidu in Kuppam. He even took control of the Kuppam Municipality using what many described as money and muscle power.
After the 2024 elections, everything changed. Peddireddy was the only YSR Congress candidate to win from Chittoor district, while Chandrababu Naidu once again secured a huge majority in Kuppam.
Even after the defeat, Peddireddy stayed active in Opposition. But things took a turn when his son Mithun Reddy was arrested in the Liquor Scam. Instead of being kept in the district, Mithun was sent to Rajahmundry Central Jail, where he spent around 70 days.
During that time, Peddireddy and his family rented a house in Rajahmundry to stay close and send food to him daily — a situation similar to Chandrababu Naidu’s family during his arrest in the Skill Development Case.
Observers say the experience mellowed Peddireddy. Even after Mithun’s release on bail, he stayed unusually quiet and avoided making public statements.
Recently, an illegal liquor dump found in Malkalacheruvu caused a political storm. Following allegations against Thambalapalle Incharge Jayachandra Reddy, the TDP suspended him immediately. Reports claim Jayachandra Reddy is a follower of Peddireddy and was planted inside TDP to support Peddireddy’s brother, Dwarakanath Reddy, who contested from Thambalapalle on a YSR Congress ticket.
Dwarakanath won the seat by a narrow margin of 10,000 votes, which stood out since most alliance candidates had record-breaking majorities in the 2024 election.
Despite these serious allegations, Peddireddy has maintained silence. He hasn’t issued any clarification or denial, suggesting he wants to avoid conflict with the ruling party or government.
With his seniority and strong base in Chittoor, Peddireddy remains a valuable asset for YSR Congress. But his silence in the Opposition could prove to be a significant loss for the party.
