Pulivendula, Andhra Pradesh: Tension gripped Pulivendula in Kadapa district on October 17 after clashes broke out during the nomination process for urban local body elections. Supporters of the ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the opposition YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) were involved in the unrest, raising concerns about the peaceful conduct of the election process. Police fired six rounds into the air, used tear gas shells and resorted to a lathi-charge to control the situation. Several people were reportedly injured in clashes at different locations across Kadapa district.
According to reports, the trouble began when YSRCP candidates and their supporters arrived at the nomination centre while TDP candidates were already inside. Police reportedly asked the YSRCP group to wait until the other candidates completed the filing process. Tensions increased when a large group attempted to move towards the centre, leading to a confrontation with the police. Kadapa MP YS Avinash Reddy staged a protest and alleged that YSRCP candidates were being prevented from filing their nominations. He also called for the State Election Commission to intervene.
The police said restrictions were in place to prevent large gatherings and maintain order during the nomination process. Kadapa District Collector Sridhar Cherukuri and Superintendent of Police Shelke Nachiket Vishwanath visited the area to review the situation. Officials said security had been increased at nomination centres and warned that violations of election-related rules could lead to legal action.
The violence was not limited to Pulivendula. Clashes and stone-pelting were also reported in Kadapa town, Mydukur and other areas of the district. Both TDP and YSRCP leaders accused each other of creating trouble during the nomination process. With the final day for filing nominations approaching on October 18, authorities faced the challenge of ensuring that all eligible candidates could submit their papers without fear or obstruction. The incidents have raised questions about election security and the need for a fair and peaceful nomination process.