YSRCP MP Seeks Independent Probe Into Andhra Civic Poll Irregularities
Maddila Gurumoorthy urges constitutional authorities to ensure free and fair elections, alleging intimidation, violence and obstruction during nomination proceedings.
- YSRCP MP seeks independent probe into poll allegations
- Complaints cite intimidation and nomination obstruction
- Supreme Court directs safeguards at nomination centres
- MP demands central forces and judicial oversight
GG News Bureau
Tirupati, 26th Oct: Tirupati MP Maddila Gurumoorthy has sought an independent inquiry into alleged irregularities, violence and obstruction during the ongoing urban local body elections in Andhra Pradesh, calling on constitutional authorities to safeguard the fairness of the electoral process.
In a representation to the President of India and the Governor of Andhra Pradesh, the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leader alleged that opposition candidates had faced intimidation, attacks, obstruction while filing nominations and destruction of nomination papers after the election process began on October 16.
Gurumoorthy cited incidents in Annamayya, YSR Kadapa, Chittoor, Tirupati and Anantapur districts. These included an alleged attack on Rajampet MP P.V. Midhun Reddy and party candidates in Punganur, incidents of vehicle arson and restrictions on the movement of opposition leaders.
The representation also raised questions over the alleged selective enforcement of prohibitory orders and the conduct of police personnel during the nomination process.
Supreme Court Intervention And Election Measures
The matter reached the Supreme Court on October 21, when it directed the State Election Commission (SEC) to examine complaints and supporting evidence, defer publication of the final list of candidates, and ensure adequate police protection and CCTV surveillance at nomination centres.
Following its review, the SEC extended the nomination period in four urban local bodies. The election process was also temporarily halted across all 100 urban local bodies in compliance with the court’s directions.
Gurumoorthy questioned whether the corrective measures were sufficient, arguing that candidates in other affected areas might also have been denied a fair opportunity to contest. He cited reports of wards receiving no nominations and allegations that several aspirants were prevented from submitting their papers.
Demand For Central Forces And Judicial Oversight
The YSRCP MP called for the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces in vulnerable areas and sought extensions of nomination and re-nomination deadlines wherever necessary.
He also urged the appointment of a retired High Court or Supreme Court judge to oversee the remaining electoral process. The representation called for an impartial investigation into the alleged involvement of officials and accountability wherever misconduct is established.
The allegations have added to the political confrontation between the ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP)-led NDA alliance and the YSRCP. The claims remain allegations, and an independent inquiry would be required to establish responsibility for any wrongdoing.
