JC Prediction: Babu @ National, Lokesh @ AP

JC Divakar Reddy was once one of the most affluent and active politicians in Andhra Pradesh. He is fondly referred to as “JC Thatha” by the TDP cadres on social media as his interviews tend to have funky content and direct commentary.

Despite being not so active in politics, these days due to age factor Diwakar Reddy occasionally gives interviews to the media. In one such interview, the veteran firebrand projected the future of Andhra Pradesh politics using his experience and gut feeling.

Reddy said that Chandrababu might not be continuing as the chief minister for five years tenure. “I’m saying this, not because someone else will take up the CM post by forcing Chandrababu. But instead, Chandrababu himself will step down from this position and look at national politics. He has the expertise and credibility to go to national politics.”

The interviewer was pleasantly surprised by the statement from the senior politician, and he asked who would be the next chief minister of Andhra Pradesh, then. “It is only natural that ChandraBabu’s son Lokesh becomes the next chief minister. Once Babu goes to national politics, it is Lokesh, who will have to look after Andhra Pradesh. This might happen before the coming election.”

When asked if Pawan Kalyan would have a say in this matter, Divakar Reddy gave a polite response. Reddy said he does not know enough about Pawan Kalyan to assess his political stand, and hence he cannot comment on the reaction of the deputy chief minister.

It can be noted that Divakar Reddy is one of the senior most politicians in the Telugu states with nearly 5 decades of experience. His projections might seem bold at this point in time, but they certainly carry their own share of credibility. But whether this will actually turn out to be the case in reality is a question that will linger for the next 3-4 years.