Film actor Chiranjeevi stirred the political waters in Hyderabad during the promotion of Laila, a film featuring Vishwak Sen, as he reflected on the evolution of his former political party, the Praja Rajyam Party (PRP), which he claimed has now transformed itself entirely within the framework of the Jana Sena Party (JSP). Raising the slogan ‘Jai Jana Sena,’ Chiranjeevi’s remarks evoked enthusiasm from fans and supporters, clearly linking the two parties.
Chiranjeevi's assertion was met with enthusiasm by Jana Sena supporters, but it also ignited speculation from critics and political trolls. Many suggested this statement implied the JSP could soon follow PRP’s historical path of merging with another political party, similar to PRP’s past merger with the Congress. Ambati Rambabu, the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leader, pounced on this opportunity. He commented on Chiranjeevi's remarks, stating, "The transformation of PRP to JSP might indicate a future merger, echoing past shifts between parties." His statement stoked the fires of speculation around potential political realignments.
Responding vigorously to Rambabu’s comments, JSP leaders vehemently denied the allegations of any impending merger with another political party. Bolisetty Satyanarayana (Satya), General Secretary of Jana Sena, did not hold back, labelling Rambabu as 'a slave to Jagan,' accusing him of propagandizing unfounded rumors. Satya underscored the historical link between PRP and JSP, firmly declaring, "Jana Sena Party is an extension of PRP," and rejecting any claims of future consolidation.
Satya’s defense included insights about the foundational period of PRP and how Pawan Kalyan, the prominent figure behind JSP, played pivotal roles dating back to plans for the 2009 elections. He claimed the downfall of PRP was attributed primarily to weak management during electoral campaigns and insufficient media support, rather than lack of popular support.
Reminiscing about PRP’s evolution, Satya pointed out Pawan Kalyan's influential speeches, which he argued contributed to Kalyan being sidelined during the operational phase of PRP. "These emotional appeals, albeit sincere, impacted our ability to manage the party effectively," he noted, highlighting the various challenges PRP faced during its operational phase.
When JSP was established formally, such as during the milestone meeting held in Visakhapatnam, the leaders underscored the establishment of JSP as the continuing legacy of PRP. This event signified not just a rebirth but also the reinforcement of the party's guiding principles and identity, according to Satya.
Despite the rampant speculation about potential mergers, Satya dismissed such concerns outright. He asserted, "Pawan Kalyan will never dissolve this party; this is the people’s army," emphasizing his commitment to maintaining JSP’s independent identity and asserting its political significance.
Chiranjeevi’s decision to merge PRP with the Congress back then was portrayed as strategic. Satya defended this move, stating it was meant to secure the futures of Chiranjeevi’s associates, indicating the calculated nature of such political decisions. He believed it allowed for more stability and integration among allies within the political sphere.
Overall, amid swirling rumors from social media and the opposition, Jana Sena Party stands firm on its independent identity. Satya reiterated the core narrative of the party’s direction and its objectives, re-establishing JSP's commitment to its stated goals, signaling to supporters and critics alike its resolve to stand autonomously.