The Andhra Pradesh Assembly’s monsoon session began on Thursday with high expectations, as the government planned to introduce and pass four key bills. Both Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan had appealed to all legislators to attend, while Speaker Ayyanna Patrudu also reminded members of their responsibility to participate in the crucial discussions.
As expected, the YSRCP skipped the session entirely, continuing its boycott of Assembly proceedings. But the surprise came from within the ruling alliance itself. Out of the 164 coalition MLAs, less than 45 were present in the House on the opening day.
Visibly frustrated, Speaker Ayyanna Patrudu pointed out the empty seats, remarking that not even 40 members were in attendance. Analysts says that, it could simply be a case of leaders underestimating the importance of the first day’s proceedings.
Whatever the reason, the low attendance has raised questions about commitment and accountability of absent MLAs. For a government that often criticizes the opposition for staying away from debates, such absenteeism within its own ranks has not gone unnoticed. All eyes are now on Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, who will have to ensure stronger discipline among his legislators in the coming days to avoid embarrassment.
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