YS Jagan Accuses Chandrababu Government of Undermining Democracy in Local Body Elections

YSR Congress Party president and former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has launched a sharp attack on the Chandrababu Naidu-led government over the ongoing local body elections in the state. Speaking at a media conference at the YSRCP central office in Tadepalli, he alleged that the ruling government, police and State Election Commission had joined hands to hijack the electoral process. Questioning whether the elections were genuine polls or merely selections, Jagan claimed that irregularities had occurred at various stages, including nominations, scrutiny, withdrawals, polling and counting. He also presented photographs and videos of incidents that he alleged involved intimidation, attacks, rigging and the obstruction of opposition polling agents.

Jagan further alleged that opposition candidates were prevented from contesting in several municipal and local body seats, polling agents were denied entry into booths, and discrepancies were found in the reported voting figures. He also questioned the implementation of Supreme Court directions on CCTV surveillance at polling and counting centres. Raising concerns over alleged attacks on journalists and the handling of complaints, he called for greater transparency and protection of democratic rights. Urging people to raise the slogan “Save Andhra, Save Democracy,” Jagan praised party leaders and workers who stood their ground despite pressure. He concluded by saying that Chandrababu had won the elections but lost morally, while the YSRCP had lost the polls but won the people's support. These allegations were made by Jagan during the press conference.