On the second day of Odarpu Yatra in Srikakulam district, Kadapa MP YS Jagan Mohan Reddy reached Tekkali amid joyous cheers from his supporters.
The sleepy little town was awakened on Friday with a great rush of people and supporters of late YS Rajasekhar Reddy to see the youth leader. Women, youth and students besides Congress cadres came in large numbers to greet Jagan at the Tekkali Railway Gate where he unveiled the statue of his late father YS Rajasekhar Reddy. Many local leaders offered floral tributes at the statue.
Seeing the throng of the people Jagan expressed his gratitude and humbly lifted both his hands saying: ‘‘My father is not dead. He is still in your hearts. It is clear to me now from the love and affection you have showered on me. I cannot repay your love in material terms…’’
Former Minister Konathala Ramakrishna participated in the meeting. Jagan later proceeded to Kothapeta in Kotabomalli mandal and addressed a gathering of villagers.
Earlier around 3 a.m. a massive crowd awaited Jagan at Palasa where he unveiled a statue of Dr YS Rajasekhar Reddy. Later Jagan went to Parlapadu village in Nandigama mandal in the wee hours to sympathise with the bereaved family of Nirmala who died immediately after learning about the death of YSR. Jagan hugged the family members and promised to stand by them.
Jagan is scheduled to unveil a statue of YSR at Narasannapeta and address a gathering after the Kothaeta visit. Later, he will visit Saravakota, Jalumuru and Polak in the Assembly constituency. On his way back at Bhairy Junction Jagan will address a roadside gathering.
As part of the Odarpu Yatra, Jagan is scheduled to visit Hukumpet village in Gara mandal to meet the bereaved family of Paruwada Janardhan Janakiram (Janakayya). He will also address a meeting in the village.