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YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leaders TJR Sudhakar Babu and Kasu Mahesh Reddy, former MLA, have strongly condemned the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) 's alleging "undemocratic actions" and "intimidation tactics" in the ongoing municipal by-polls.
Addressing the media separately, they alleged that TDP is undermining democracy through violence, coercion, and false cases, particularly in the context of municipal elections. They warned of the severe consequences of such actions for the state's democratic health. TJR Sudhakar Babu accused TDP for using force and intimidation to manipulate municipal elections, including securing vice-chairperson positions despite lacking a majority. He highlighted how TDP leaders "resorted to violence against YSRCP councillors, including kidnappings, house demolitions, and threats, to ensure their hold on power." He further emphasized the complicity of local police, who failed to intervene, allowing illegal activities to continue unchecked. He expressed concern that these tactics represent a dangerous disregard for constitutional principles. He warned that the people of Andhra Pradesh would soon deliver a fitting verdict against TDP's undemocratic practices. Kasu Mahesh Reddy echoed similar sentiments, criticizing TDP for its "hypocrisy" and descent into "regressive" politics. He recalled the 100 per cent victory YSRCP achieved in municipal elections under the leadership of former Chief Minister YS Jagan, contrasting this with TDP's failure to uphold democratic principles. Mahesh Reddy specifically highlighted the incidents in Pedakurapadu, where TDP leaders orchestrated attacks on YSRCP councillors, including the kidnapping and intimidation of councillors and even the ransacking of one councillor's house. He praised the resilience of 29th Ward Councillor Munira and her family for standing firm with YSRCP despite facing intimidation and threats. Further detailing TDP's undemocratic behaviour, Mahesh Reddy accused the party of threatening the Municipal Chairman in Pedakurapadu, warning him of dire consequences, such as locking down his factory, unless he complied with TDP's demands. He expressed deep concern about the growing "anarchy and false cases being filed by TDP across the state" and condemned the party for resorting to coercive tactics to secure power. The two leaders urged the people to remain vigilant. They united in the face of TDP's undemocratic practices, especially in the context of municipal by-elections, and to ensure that democracy in the state is preserved and protected. (ANI)
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