TDP flags violence, cash-for-votes in parishad polls

Amaravati: A TDP delegation on Thursday lodged a complaint with State Election Commissioner Anil Chandra Punetha, alleging large-scale cash distribution to voters and violent incidents involving YSRCP workers during the MPTC and ZPTC elections across the state.

The delegation, led by MLC Varla Ramaiah, included TDP State general secretary Parchuri Ashok Babu, AP Biodiversity Board chairman Neelayapalem Vijay Kumar and AP Brahmin Corporation chairman Buchi Ram Prasad.

The TDP representatives submitted 19 complaints covering alleged irregularities and violent incidents reported from 17 locations across the State. They also handed over a pen drive containing video evidence of the alleged attacks and election-related violence.

The party alleged that YSRCP activists entered polling booths carrying sticks and petrol bombs, intimidated voters and attacked TDP candidates. It further alleged that ballot boxes were brought out and damaged in full public view in some places.

The delegation sought action against those allegedly involved in cash distribution and attacks on MPTC candidates.

Speaking to the media after meeting the SEC, Varla Ramaiah alleged that the YSRCP was resorting to violence and money distribution out of fear of defeat in the parishad elections.

He claimed that cash was distributed indiscriminately among voters across the State from Wednesday night and demanded an investigation into the sources of the money. He also alleged that TDP MPTC candidates were physically attacked in several places, including Srikakulam.

Ramaiah accused YSRCP president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy of encouraging such activities to create an impression of the party’s political strength. He demanded registration of FIRs against those involved in violence, intimidation and electoral malpractices.

The TDP delegation urged the Election Commission and senior police officials to conduct a comprehensive investigation, identify those responsible and initiate stringent legal action. Ramaiah also called upon the YSRCP to contest future local body elections peacefully and on the basis of public support.

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The Hans India