AP Polls Marred by Violent Incidents, Many Injured

Vijayawada: The simultaneous Assembly and Parliament elections in Andhra Pradesh on Monday were marred by clashes between the YSRC and Telugu Desam activists. The clashes in several districts created tension and several partymen from rival sides were injured before the police could intervene and restore order. The polling started on a smooth note but disputes and clashes occurred in faction prone areas including the Palnadu region.

Tension prevailed in Rentala in Macherla constituency and Gurajala of Palandu district following clashes between the TD and YSRC activists. The rival sides used stones and sticks to target their opponents. Some persons were injured. Taking a serious view of the situation, the Election Commission directed the CEO, Mukesh Kumar Meena, to rush additional forces to Rentala and other places in Palnadu and ensure the smooth



elections.

The clashes were mainly registered in polling booths in Palnadu region and Tenali and Macherla constituencies during the voting. In Macharla, Veldurthi and Loyapalli of Palnadu, assaults were reported outside the polling stations. A young voter in Nizampatnam of Bapatla was injured following a dispute with the YSRC leaders. Sattenapalli, Mokkapadu, Rayvaram and Acchampeta also reported clashes and injuries to many.

The atmosphere was more tense in Gurzala, where TD leader Nellore Ramakotiah was attacked by the YSRC members. Kurnool and Prakasam districts saw similar incidents. YSRC men were accused of violence, intimidation and even kidnapping tactics. TD workers attacked the car of YSRC chief agent Umesh, the son-in-law of minister Ambati Rambabu ,while observing the poll process in Narnepadu of Muppallla mandal.