YSRCP alleges large-scale irregularities in Pulivendula, Ontimitta ZPTC bypolls

The YSRCP has alleged that the TDP resorted to large-scale malpractice during the Pulivendula and Ontimitta ZPTC by-elections, terming it a “murder of democracy.”

Addressing the media on Thursday, YSRCP leaders Perni Venkataramaiah (Nani) and MLC Lella Appi Reddy alleged that non-local TDP workers were allowed to vote in the presence of district officials, while YSRCP supporters and polling agents were obstructed. They alleged that the police acted as a shield for the TDP, allowing outsiders from Jammalamadugu, Kamalapuram, and Proddutur to cast bogus votes.

They criticised the State Election Commission for ordering re-polling in only two polling stations at 2 a.m., long after the alleged rigging occurred, calling it eyewash. They demanded the release of CCTV and webcasting footage to expose what they described as systematic booth capturing and police collusion.

Mr. Nani said the absence of women voters in queues pointed to manipulation, questioning what Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu had achieved by such means. Mr. Appi Reddy vowed that YSRCP would take the issue to the people, reaffirming the party’s commitment to free and fair elections.

He said the party lodged 35 complaints with the SEC, made 17 personal visits, and sent 18 emails highlighting the “irregularities,” but no action was taken. He alleged that voter slips were seized, vehicles vandalised, and YSRCP leaders attacked, while the party’s Pulivendula candidate, Hemant Reddy, was prevented from casting his vote.