Violent Clash Erupts During Andhra's ZPTC Campaign
YSRCP MLC’s convoy attacked in Kadapa election violence.
A violent confrontation erupted in Nalgondavaripalli village, Kadapa district, Andhra Pradesh, during the ZPTC by-election campaign in Pulivendula constituency, a political stronghold of former Chief Minister and Opposition Leader Jagan Mohan Reddy. On Wednesday, tensions flared as Telugu Desam Party (TDP) supporters allegedly pelted stones at the convoy of YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) MLC Ramesh Yadav, damaging his vehicle, police reported.
The clash left Yadav, YSRCP supporter Ramalinga Reddy, and two TDP leaders injured, all of whom were hospitalized for treatment. Heavy rainfall briefly de-escalated the situation, but tensions surged again when Reddy’s team reportedly entered Nalgondavaripalli, a restricted zone, without prior police approval, violating local law enforcement advisories.
A senior police official noted, “Ramalinga Reddy, assigned as booth in-charge for another area, had no direct connection to Nalgondavaripalli. His unapproved visit is under scrutiny.” The incident has heightened concerns in the faction-sensitive Pulivendula constituency, where the ZPTC by-election was triggered by the death of ZPTC member C Maheshwar Reddy two years ago, who was elected unopposed after TDP failed to field a candidate due to alleged pressure.
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With elections for Mandal Parishad Territorial Constituencies (MPTC), Zilla Parishad Territorial Constituencies (ZPTC), and Gram Panchayats set for August 10 and 12, the Election Commission has mandated that candidates coordinate with police to ensure peaceful campaigning. However, some leaders have disregarded security protocols, exacerbating tensions. Additional security has been deployed for prominent figures, including YSRCP Kadapa MP Avinash Reddy, though some have declined protection.
Police have restored calm and are restricting campaign activities to pre-approved areas to prevent further clashes. A case has been registered, and investigations are underway to address the violation of election protocols and the violent incident.
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