B. Y. Ramaiah questions SEC’s inaction on TDP coalition attacks

Kurnool, Oct 17: YSRCP spokesperson B. Y. Ramaiah questioned the State Election Commission’s failure to act on complaints, supported by evidence, about violence and obstruction during local body elections.

 Speaking at the party’s district office in Kurnool, he said the Commission must act independently and impartially, but its inaction appeared to favour the ruling coalition.

Ramaiah accused Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu of relying on intimidation because he lacked the confidence to face voters. He said TDP workers were threatening YSRCP candidates, attacking them and snatching nomination papers at filing centres while police remained silent. He cited incidents in Kadapa, Punganur, Rayachoti, Pulivendula and Tirupati and demanded a thorough, impartial inquiry.

He also referred to the attack on MP P. V. Mithun Reddy and attacks on MPs Y. S. Avinash Reddy and Gurumoorthy. In Rayachoti, he said, offices were attacked and vehicles set on fire. He called for an inquiry into allegations that police damaged vehicles and into reports of weapons being used, with the findings made public.

Ramaiah said YSRCP would continue its democratic and legal fight under Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy’s leadership. He urged the Commission to protect candidates’ right to contest and ensure every stage, from nominations to counting, is transparent and fair. He said candidates would not be deterred by threats and that voters would answer the government at the polls.