Hyderabad:
Two and a half years after Chiranjeevi launched his Praja Rajyam, the actor-turned-politician will take an important decision that could be a turning point in Andhra Pradesh politics.
The Congress is looking to Chiranjeevi to provide strength to the Kiran Kumar Reddy government, which is at the mercy of Jagan's rebel MLAs.
The meeting between senior Congress leader A K Antony and Chiranjeevi this week in Hyderabad has set the tone for political realignments in Andhra Pradesh. Chiranjeevi will now meet Sonia Gandhi in Delhi to discuss the contours of the road ahead for the Praja Rajyam and the Congress.
"We have assured that if there is any need, we will support this state government. They sent invitation to strengthen the relationship and to work together. There is no discussion on joining the cabinet till now. It will be decided after the discussions in Delhi," said C Ramachandraiah, Senior PRP leader.
Chiranjeevi's MLAs are likely to be offered three to four cabinet berths in Kiran Kumar Reddy's ministry. There is also speculation if Chiranjeevi will be accommodated in the UPA cabinet through the Rajya Sabha route. And finally whether Praja Rajyam will eventually merge with the Congress or have just an alliance.
"Whatever decision Sonia Gandhi and AICC takes, we in the state and the government will abide by it," said Kiran Kumar Reddy, Chief Minister, Andhra Pradesh.
The handshake with Chiranjeevi will ensure some stability to the state government in the event of Jagan deciding not to be a gentleman anymore and pull the rug from under Kiran Kumar Reddy's feet.
For Chiranjeevi too, this offers a political lifeline because the Praja Rajyam's strength of 18 MLAs is a poacher's delight.