DGP Warns of Strict Action Against Violence and Nomination Obstruction in Local Body Elections

The Director General of Police (DGP) has warned that strict action will be taken against anyone involved in violence or attempts to obstruct the filing of nominations in the local body elections. According to the DGP’s office, 31 incidents were reported across 13 districts of Andhra Pradesh on Thursday during the MPTC and ZPTC election nomination process. Of these, 22 involved violence, clashes or disturbances to law and order, while nine were related to the snatching, tearing or damaging of nomination papers. Anantapur district recorded the highest number, with eight incidents, including three violent incidents and five involving damage to nomination papers. Three violent incidents each were reported in Annamayya, Kadapa and Prakasam districts. Tirupati recorded three such incidents, while Chittoor, Sri Sathya Sai and Palnadu districts reported two each. Nellore, Kurnool and Markapuram recorded one violent incident each. Cases involving the destruction of nomination papers were also reported in Nandyal and Eluru. Police identified 16 instances of nomination papers being snatched, torn or damaged. Six incidents involved stone-pelting or attacks with stones and sticks. Four vehicles—two cars and two motorcycles—were set on fire. Two houses were attacked and damaged, including one that was demolished using an earthmover. In another incident, shots were fired into the air.

A police vehicle transporting candidates to a nomination centre was also attacked with stones, leaving a constable with a serious head injury. Two people, including a candidate contesting the election, were reported to be in critical condition. The DGP’s office stated that 16 cases had been registered, while the process of registering cases in 11 other incidents was underway. So far, 54 suspects have been identified, and police are examining videos, CCTV footage and photographs to identify others involved. The police said candidates belonging to the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), Communist Party of India (Marxist) and an independent candidate had faced attacks or obstruction. The DGP’s office emphasised that action would be taken uniformly against anyone committing offences, irrespective of political affiliation. Attacks on police personnel performing election duties would be treated seriously, with cases to be registered under Section 132 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and other applicable provisions. District Superintendents of Police and Police Commissioners have been directed to complete pending case registrations and arrest the accused. Additional forces are to be deployed at sensitive nomination centres and villages to ensure the safety of candidates, election staff and the public. People facing threats, obstruction or violence have been advised to call 100 or 112 or approach the nearest police station.