Tense moments in Arlabanda over alleged poll rigging

Kurnool: High tension prevailed at Arlabanda village in Kosigi mandal of Kurnool district on Thursday following widespread allegations of polling irregularities and booth rigging at Booth No. 2 during the local body elections.

YSRCP leaders and cadres staged a demonstration outside the polling center, alleging that TDP leaders and party workers were resorting to electoral malpractices to influence voting outcomes. The protesting leaders accused the opposition of undermining democratic norms, demanding immediate administrative intervention and criminal action against those involved in the alleged malpractice.

In response to the formal complaint lodged by YSRCP representatives, election authorities immediately suspended the voting process at Booth No. 2 to inspect the premises and evaluate the situation. District election officials appealed to political parties and local villagers to maintain peace, assuring that a comprehensive inquiry would be conducted strictly as per election guidelines.

Security personnel were immediately reinforced around the polling booth and throughout Arlabanda village to prevent potential clashes between political workers. Confirming the administrative decision, Adoni Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO) Aruna Devi told The Hans India on Thursday evening that, following preliminary verification of the alleged irregularities, officials resolved to nullify Thursday’s process at Booth No. 2. She announced that fresh re-polling for the affected booth will be held on Friday, November 6, under heightened security cover.

Police units remain stationed across Kosigi mandal to ensure orderly conduct during Friday’s re-polling, while election observers continue to monitor the village to prevent further untoward incidents.

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Narendra Kr Varikuntla

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