ZPTC By-Polls: Jagan Accuses TDP of Power Misuse

Quick Summary

• YSRCP president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy accuses Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and NDA government of engaging in “anarchic politics” during Pulivendula and Ontimitta ZPTC by-elections.
• Allegations include:

– Conspiracies, intimidation, misuse of official machinery to influence by-election results.
– Violence orchestrated by TDP leaders against YSRCP members, including alleged booth capturing.
– Binding over hundreds of YSRCP workers to intimidate them.

• Specific incidents cited:

– Attack on YSRCP leaders caused injuries to Amaresh Reddy and Saidapuram Suresh Reddy during a wedding event in Pulivendula on August 5.
– Attempted murder of MLC Ramesh Yadav and Velpula Ramalinga Reddy near Nallagondavaripalle; attackers allegedly included TDP supporters, with no police intervention reported.

• Police actions deemed biased, such as filing SC/ST cases against Velpula Ramalinga Reddy and others while neglecting action against the attackers.
• Alleged polling irregularities include shifting booths far from villages, deterring voter participation.
• Post-August 8 arrests: Twelve individuals detained regarding allegations tied to Velpula Ramalinga Reddy; claims emerged that some where already in custody during the cited incident.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The ongoing allegations surrounding the Pulivendula and Ontimitta ZPTC by-elections highlight significant concerns about the democratic process’s integrity. The accusations from YSRC president Jagan Mohan Reddy suggest potential misuse of political power, law enforcement bias, and election-related violence-all serious charges if substantiated.If voter participation is hindered due to alleged booth relocation or intimidation tactics, it undermines public trust in electoral fairness.Moreover, violent clashes between party cadres further escalate tensions within regional politics. It reflects a need for impartial investigation into claims from all sides to ensure justice prevails.

Maintaining democratic trust requires neutrality among political institutions like law enforcement during elections. Ensuring free-and-fair elections not only upholds constitutional values but also prevents escalating rivalries from overshadowing governance priorities at large.

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