State Election Commission Orders Action Against Police Over Alleged Election Irregularities

Andhra Pradesh State Election Commissioner Anil Chandra Punetha has directed senior police officials to take action against personnel from Palnadu and Annamayya districts over alleged negligence and partiality during the MPTC and ZPTC nomination process. In Annamayya district, allegations surfaced that police obstructed the filing of nominations at the Mulakalacheruvu Mandal Parishad Development Office. A special Deputy Collector conducted an inquiry and submitted a report concerning Circle Inspector K. Dastagiri and Sub-Inspector P. Ramakrishna. After reviewing the report, the State Election Commission wrote to the Kurnool Range Deputy Inspector General and the Annamayya Superintendent of Police on Saturday, directing them to initiate disciplinary proceedings against the officers.

The Commission also responded strongly to an incident reported outside the residence of former minister Vidadala Rajini. Following media reports alleging that Chilakaluripet Rural Sub-Inspector Priyanka pushed Rajini, the SEC directed the Palnadu Superintendent of Police to conduct an inquiry and take appropriate disciplinary action. The Commission further ordered that the officers concerned be immediately relieved of election-related and regular duties pending further action. The directions underline the Commission’s concern over allegations of police misconduct during the nomination process and its insistence on maintaining fairness and discipline during elections.