YSRCP Slams 'Rigging' in Andhra Local Polls; Submits Evidence to SEC
YSRCP leaders submit audio and video evidence to the SEC alleging police intimidation and rigging in Andhra Pradesh local-body polls.
The political climate in Andhra Pradesh has reached a boiling point as the YSRCP has formally approached the State Election Commissioner (SEC), alleging widespread local-body poll irregularities. Party leaders have submitted a trove of audio and video evidence, claiming that the state's official machinery is being weaponized to intimidate opposition candidates and manipulate election outcomes.
Serious Allegations of Police Intimidation
YSRCP MLC Lella Appireddy and former MLA TJR Sudhakar Babu led the charge, presenting evidence of what they describe as systematic interference by law enforcement. The party has specifically demanded the immediate suspension of Gudur DSP Narasimha Murthy and strict action against Nellore CI Seetharam.
To back their claims, Appireddy played audio recordings for the media. One recording allegedly features the DSP contacting YSRCP leader Eddula Narendra Reddy to discuss the withdrawal of candidates. In another clip, former Mayor Azeez is purportedly heard speaking with CI Seetharam in the presence of a candidate, discussing monetary inducements to influence the electoral process.
Chaos and Violence Across Districts
The allegations of misconduct extend beyond phone calls, with the YSRCP detailing a series of disturbing incidents across various regions:
- Nuzvid: Reports of masked men brandishing knives to create an atmosphere of fear.
- Anantapur: Allegations of interference during nomination appeals at the RDO office.
- Palnadu: Claims that nominations were fraudulently filed in the names of YSRCP candidates.
- Tadipatri: Reports of physical attacks targeting party members.
Lella Appireddy further alleged that many legitimate nominations were either obstructed or arbitrarily rejected. He urged the SEC to remove "outsiders" deployed to intimidate voters and called for an immediate crackdown on officials misusing their authority to ensure a level playing field before polling concludes.
YS Jagan Mohan Reddy Hits Out at Ruling Coalition
Adding weight to these complaints, YSRCP president and former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has accused the ruling coalition of undermining the very foundations of democracy. Speaking to party cadres in Amaravati, Jagan claimed that the government is resorting to undemocratic tactics because it is terrified of facing the electorate after failing to deliver on its promises.
"Elections should be held on a level playing field where all players should be given equal opportunity," Jagan asserted, alleging that the current local-body elections are being rigged through the misuse of official machinery.
The Threat of Legal Escalation
The YSRCP has made it clear that they will not let these alleged irregularities slide. While they are currently seeking the intervention of the State Election Commissioner to ensure free and fair polls, the party has warned that it is prepared to take the battle to the highest level. Lella Appireddy stated that the YSRCP would approach the Supreme Court if necessary to pursue legal action against electoral misconduct.