In the wake of escalating political tensions in Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has issued a strong appeal for restraint and adherence to the rule of law. This comes after reports of violent incidents where Telugu Desam Party (TDP) cadre allegedly ransacked houses of YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leaders in Guntur and NTR districts.
Naidu Warns Against Violation of Law
Addressing the situation, Chief Minister Naidu emphasized that serious action would be taken against anyone found violating the law, regardless of their political affiliations. He expressed concern over the recent disturbances and stressed the importance of maintaining peace and harmony in the state.
Allegations of Conspiracy and Provocation
Naidu suggested that the YSRCP might be engaging in deliberate provocation through abusive and indecent comments, aiming to disrupt the state's tranquility. He accused the opposition party of attempting to spoil Andhra Pradesh's investor-friendly environment and divert public attention from ongoing investigations.
Specifically, Naidu referenced the TTD ghee issue, where the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)-led Special Investigation Team (SIT) has filed a charge sheet regarding irregularities that allegedly occurred during the YSRCP regime. He urged TDP cadres not to fall into what he described as traps set by the YSRCP to disturb public peace.
Response to Violent Protests
The chief minister took note of violent protests outside the residence of YSRCP leader and former minister Jogi Ramesh. In response, he held a teleconference with state party president Palla Srinivas Rao and cabinet ministers to assess the situation. During the discussion, it was revealed that police had registered a suo motu case following the incident at Ramesh's house.
Criticism of YSRCP's Political Culture
Naidu further criticized the YSRCP, alleging that criminalization of politics was a core aspect of their culture and that lawlessness marked their tenure. He contrasted this with the TDP's approach, stating, "We established the rule of law in 2014, and our culture is empowering and service to people."
He attributed the YSRCP's alleged abusive behavior to desperation, claiming they are being exposed daily and are frustrated to see reconstruction of what they once destroyed. "Law is supreme and the rule of law must be upheld at all times," Naidu asserted.
Party Leadership Reinforces Message
Following Naidu's appeal, state party President Palla Srinivas Rao conducted a separate teleconference with all MLAs and district-level party leaders. He instructed them to avoid any involvement in violent protests and to express opposition only through principled, constitutional, and democratic means.
Rao condemned what he called vulgar remarks by YSRCP members against TDP leadership, describing them as deplorable and unacceptable. However, he echoed Naidu's warning, advising party workers not to be provoked into actions that could compromise public order.
Background of the Conflict
The current friction between the ruling TDP and opposition YSRCP intensified after former YSRCP minister Ambati Rambabu made indecent comments about Naidu. This led to TDP workers allegedly pelting stones at Rambabu's house in Guntur.
The situation worsened with subsequent comments by Jogi Ramesh, another former minister from the YSRCP regime. These exchanges have created a volatile political atmosphere, prompting calls for calm from the highest levels of state leadership.
