Nomination Hurdles, Attacks Trigger Political Tensions Across Andhra Pradesh

The YSRCP has accused the ruling alliance of targeting its candidates during the local body election nomination process, alleging that intimidation, physical attacks and deliberate obstruction are being used to prevent opposition candidates from entering the electoral fray. The party claimed that nomination papers were torn at several locations and alleged that police personnel failed to intervene despite being present at the scenes. Describing the incidents as an attack on democratic rights, YSRCP leaders demanded a fair opportunity for their candidates to contest.

In P.C. Palli mandal of the Kanigiri constituency, the party alleged that Pedda Irlapadu MPTC candidate Polu Varalakshmi and Chintagumpalli MPTC candidate Madatala Sai Kumar were attacked when they arrived to submit their nominations. Their papers were allegedly snatched and torn, while they were prevented from entering the nomination centre. Kanigiri YSRCP in-charge Dr Daddala Narayana Yadav accused the ruling establishment of misusing the police machinery to suppress political competition.

In Tuni, YSRCP alleged that TDP leaders obstructed its candidates from filing nominations, prompting party workers led by former minister Dadisetty Raja to resist the alleged interference.

In Penumuru, Chittoor district, YSRCP leaders claimed that the vehicle of former Deputy Chief Minister K. Narayana Swamy was attacked and damaged while he was accompanying a ZPTC candidate. In Rompicherla, Palnadu district, police allegedly stopped former MLA Gopireddy from accompanying candidates to file nominations. The party further claimed that TDP workers attempted an attack and police later resorted to a lathi-charge against its candidates.

In Penukonda, YSRCP alleged that TDP leaders tore an MPTC candidate's nomination papers, prompting former minister Ushashri Charan to stage a protest. In Amalapuram Municipality's Ward 25, constituency coordinator Dr Pinipe Srikant accused police of acting in favour of TDP leaders and pressuring the YSRCP candidate to withdraw the nomination.

YSRCP leaders also pointed to the Supreme Court's intervention over alleged irregularities in the nomination process. MLC Kalpalathareddy said the party had lodged another complaint with the State Election Commission.

Former MLA TJR Sudhakar Babu claimed candidates were unable to file nominations in 459 wards, while YSRCP state spokesperson Bhumana Karunakar Reddy alleged that the state government, election authorities and police were working together to weaken the opposition party politically. The allegations have intensified the political confrontation over the conduct of local body elections.