The YSR Congress Party launched the “One Crore Signatures” campaign with huge expectations. However, the initiative failed to gain the momentum the party hoped for. Many people now question whether YSRCP leaders even took the program seriously.
Campaign Struggles on Ground
Jagan Mohan Reddy announced the drive as a major fight against the TDP-led coalition government. He planned to collect one crore signatures and submit them to the Governor. He argued that the privatisation of government medical colleges would hurt poor students and damage the state’s healthcare sector.
Despite this big plan, the campaign did not work well in the field. Reports from several areas say the program fell flat due to a lack of coordination.
Internal Weaknesses Exposed
YSRCP wanted each Assembly segment to collect nearly 60,000 signatures. The goal was to create public awareness and increase pressure on the government. But the execution revealed several problems.
The campaign was delayed multiple times. When the deadline approached, the party rushed to finish the task. In almost 140 out of 175 constituencies, local in-charges barely participated. Many leaders who lost the 2024 election focused more on returning to their home regions than on current responsibilities. Their lack of interest also affected the cadres.
Party critics say leaders who were very active when YSRCP was in power now remain silent. They believe the high command must take this issue seriously.
Fake Signature Allegations Grow
Allegations about fake signatures have made the situation worse. Several insiders claim cadres filled out sheets using voter lists instead of reaching out to people. Some say nearly 90% of the signatures could be fake.
In many places, workers reportedly took forms home and wrote signatures themselves. Only a few leaders encouraged real public participation. Most sheets, according to internal criticism, were completed by cadres under pressure to meet the target.
Observers also point out that if leaders did not work sincerely as MLAs, their cadres will not show enthusiasm now.
Public Not Interested in Signature Movements
Many citizens prefer welfare schemes over signature protests. With the government actively running its “Super Six” programs, some people feared their benefits might be affected if they supported YSRCP activities.
Political analysts believe this sentiment reduced public involvement in the campaign.
What Lies Ahead?
The signed papers are now being moved to Vijayawada. Jagan will soon meet the Governor and submit them. However, a key question remains: How many signatures truly reflect the people’s voice?
YSRCP hoped to strengthen the party and put pressure on the government through this movement. Instead, the drive has raised doubts within the party and sparked debate in AP political circles.
For now, many see the “One Crore Signatures” movement as a symbolic effort that may not create the impact YSRCP expected.
