Jagan Mohan Reddy Calls for Central Forces Deployment in Andhra Pradesh Local Elections

Tadipatri, October 18 (Daily Kiran) : Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy has demanded the deployment of central forces to ensure free and fair local body elections in the state. Speaking from Tadipatri, Reddy accused the ruling coalition of creating a climate of fear to prevent YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) candidates from filing their nominations.

He urged the State Election Commission (SEC) to intervene and provide security for candidates submitting their documents at nomination centers. Reddy alleged that the entire system, from the SEC to the police, is obstructing the nomination process under directives from Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, who he claims is “afraid of losing.”

During a meeting with SEC Chief Anil Chandra Punetha, Reddy warned that if candidates are not allowed to file their nominations, it would jeopardize the credibility of the election commission and its officials. “If the SEC engages in undemocratic activities that hinder nominations, it will be an unprecedented event in history,” he stated.

Reddy requested that the SEC ensure that any candidate wishing to file nominations can do so either online or at a central location in Amaravati. He also called for police security, with the relevant Superintendent of Police taking responsibility, to ensure candidates can submit their nominations without hindrance.

He pointed out that if candidates face such difficulties during the nomination phase, it raises concerns about the conditions during the actual voting. Therefore, he emphasized the urgent need for central forces to oversee the elections. Reddy urged the SEC to communicate with relevant officials in Delhi to facilitate this deployment.

Additionally, he mentioned plans to meet with the Governor to discuss the necessity of deploying paramilitary forces. Reddy expressed concern about the presence of TDP goons at nomination centers, claiming that police were assisting in their intimidation tactics. He described incidents where nomination papers were torn and candidates were prevented from filing their nominations, all occurring in the presence of law enforcement.

“The level of oppression is unprecedented. YSRCP candidates are facing attacks, false cases, and threats, all under police supervision,” he added. Reddy criticized the police for allowing TDP supporters to gather and obstruct YSRCP workers, despite regulations permitting a limited number of supporters inside the nomination centers.

He concluded by warning that those engaging in wrongdoing would face consequences in the future.