Amaravati/Hyderabad, Oct 17 (Maxim News): Police fired a round into the air to disperse rival groups after clashes erupted during municipal election nominations in Punganur, Andhra Pradesh, on Friday.
The violence occurred in Annamayya district as Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) supporters gathered near a nomination centre. Stone-pelting and attacks on vehicles were reported, leaving several people injured.
The clashes intensified after YSRCP MP P. V. Midhun Reddy arrived with party candidates to file their nominations. His convoy was reportedly attacked, and several vehicles were damaged.
Police personnel attempted to control the gathering before a Deputy Superintendent of Police fired one round into the air. Additional personnel were deployed to restore order.
Clashes Spread Across Rayalaseema During Nominations
Tensions were also reported in Rayachoti, where vehicles were set on fire and damaged near the YSRCP office. Police and fire personnel reached the area and brought the situation under control.
In Punganur, both parties accused each other of provoking the violence. YSRCP leaders alleged that their candidates were obstructed while attempting to file nominations.
TDP leaders, meanwhile, accused Midhun Reddy and his supporters of instigating the confrontation. Annamayya district police also alleged that the YSRCP convoy violated election guidelines and security restrictions. These claims remain contested.
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The violence occurred on the first day of nominations for municipal elections in Andhra Pradesh. Similar clashes and confrontations were reported in other parts of Rayalaseema, including Tirupati and Dharmavaram.
YSRCP leaders criticised the police response and demanded stronger protection for candidates. The party also sought central security deployment amid concerns over election-related violence.
Police stepped up security in sensitive areas as the nomination process continued. Further action will depend on the investigations into the clashes and complaints filed by the parties.
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