Restrictions on media and candidate entry questioned in Nandyal

Nandyal: Allegations of selective police enforcement during the local body election nomination process have sparked intense political controversy in Nandyal, with opposition leaders and journalists questioning the impartiality of the law enforcement administration.

Under State Election Commission guidelines, only two individuals are permitted to accompany a candidate into the designated nomination center. Furthermore, tight restrictions have been imposed on media representatives, preventing reporters and photojournalists from entering nomination centers to cover candidate filings. Local journalists expressed deep concern over these curbs, stating that media restrictions hinder their ability to discharge professional duties and keep the public informed.

However, opposition parties raised sharp objections over alleged preferential treatment accorded to ruling party figures.

They pointed out that Minister NMD Farooq’s son was permitted to process to the nomination center accompanied by hundreds of supporters in a massive rally, seemingly violating rule limits without encountering police opposition.

Opposition representatives questioned whether senior police officials were aware of these blatant code violations while strictly enforcing restrictions on ordinary candidates and media personnel.

Demanding immediate corrective action, opposition leaders urged the district police administration to maintain absolute neutrality and enforce election regulations uniformly without showing favoritism toward ruling party candidates.

They stressed that impartial enforcement of election guidelines and granting fair access to the press are essential prerequisites for guaranteeing a free, fair, and transparent municipal election process across

Nandyal district.

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The Hans India