High tension prevailed in Punganur, Chittoor district, at the nomination centre following clashes between YSRCP and TDP leaders and workers. Several YSRCP and TDP workers, along with police personnel, sustained injuries in the confrontation.
YSRCP Rajampet MP PV Midhun Reddy arrived at the nomination centre with party chairperson and ward member candidates. Police reported that he was accompanied by approximately 100 supporters in six vehicles.
The convoy allegedly violated State Election Commission (SEC) guidelines by entering within 100 metres of the centre. It is reported that the convoy knocked down barricades and gates, which triggered a confrontation with TDP candidates and supporters.
The incident escalated into stone-pelting and clashes involving sticks and rods. Police resorted to mild lathi-charge to disperse the groups and later escorted Midhun Reddy and the candidates to the nomination centre under tight security.
Tension also prevailed in Tirupati following a face-off between leaders of the two parties. These developments have further intensified the local election atmosphere.
These incidents pose a challenge to maintaining law and order during the election process in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Such clashes during elections undermine the spirit of democracy.
