YSRCP Claims 'Political Vendetta' as Leaders Attacked Before Local Polls
YSRCP leader Gudivada Amarnath claims party members and security personnel were attacked ahead of Andhra Pradesh local body polls.
Tensions are escalating in Andhra Pradesh as the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) has raised serious allegations of physical violence and intimidation against its leaders and workers. Ahead of the upcoming local body elections, the party claims that a wave of attacks is being orchestrated to prevent opposition candidates from contesting freely.
Violence in Rayachoti and Punganur
YSRCP leader and former minister Gudivada Amarnath has brought these issues to light, stating that party representatives facing the elections are being targeted across the state. He specifically highlighted incidents in the Rayachoti constituency of Annamayya district, where several vehicles belonging to party members were reportedly damaged.
A more severe incident was reported in Punganur involving senior YSRCP leader and Member of Parliament, Mithun Reddy. According to Amarnath, an attack took place while Mithun Reddy was en route to file the nomination for a party candidate. The clash reportedly involved not only party leaders but also former Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel who were assigned to Reddy's security.
The consequences of the Punganur clash were significant:
- Two to three YSRCP leaders were allegedly assaulted.
- One security jawan sustained a serious injury to the head.
- Another jawan suffered an injury to the eye.
Accusations of 'Red Book' Governance
Gudivada Amarnath did not mince words in his critique of the current administration. He accused the state government of deliberately creating a hostile environment to ensure that the local body elections only benefit the ruling party.
Amarnath described the current regime under Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and his son as "Red Book" governance. He alleged that the state has seen a complete breakdown of law and order over the last two to two-and-a-half years, characterized by political vendettas and systemic attacks on individuals.
Calls for Central Intervention
Given the volatile situation, the YSRCP is seeking help from higher authorities to ensure the democratic process is not compromised. Amarnath has made a formal appeal to the Central Government, demanding the immediate deployment of Central forces to maintain law and order during the polling process.
Furthermore, acting on behalf of YSRCP president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, Amarnath urged Andhra Pradesh Governor S Abdul Nazeer to step in. The party is demanding that the Governor ensure the elections are conducted in a free, fair, and peaceful manner, spanning across Kadapa, Rayalaseema, Coastal Andhra, and North Coastal Andhra.