Allegations of Polling Irregularities

Tensions were reported in Pulivendula during Andhra Pradesh’s urban local body elections on November 1, with YSRCP president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy alleging intimidation, booth rigging and obstruction of his party’s polling agents.

Jagan claimed that YSRCP agents were allowed inside only 10 of the municipality’s 80 polling booths, while agents at the remaining 70 booths were allegedly prevented from entering. He also alleged that voter slips were snatched and voters were obstructed.

Jagan Stages Protest, Seeks Repoll

After arriving in Pulivendula to cast his vote, Jagan staged a protest outside the Returning Officer’s office after officials reportedly did not allow him inside. He submitted a representation seeking cancellation of the polling process and repolling across all 80 booths.

Jagan said the affected polling agents should be heard and the allegations investigated. He also said he would cast his vote only if a repoll was ordered.

TDP Rejects Allegations

The Telugu Desam Party rejected Jagan’s claims and accused YSRCP supporters of attempting to disrupt polling and provoke unrest. TDP leaders also submitted complaints to the State Election Commission over alleged violations during the elections.

Election Authorities’ Response

The allegations and counter-allegations have placed the conduct of polling in Pulivendula under scrutiny. Any decision on repolling rests with the election authorities following examination of complaints and evidence.