YSRCP Activist's Death Ignites Political Firestorm in Andhra Pradesh
The death of a YSR Congress Party activist in Andhra Pradesh has sparked a major political controversy. The incident occurred in Palnadu district during the Makar Sankranti festival celebrations. It has created significant tension between the ruling Telugu Desam Party and the opposition YSRCP.
Details of the Tragic Incident
M Salman, a resident of Pinneli village in Gurazala Assembly constituency, died on Thursday morning. He had been battling for his life in hospital for three days following an alleged assault. According to police reports, Salman suffered grievous injuries during the attack. He slipped into a coma before succumbing to his wounds.
YSRCP leaders claim TDP workers and local leaders attacked Salman when he visited his wife in the village. They allege this happened because he felt threatened and had temporarily left the area. The party asserts this attack represents a pattern of violence against their activists since the TDP came to power in June 2024.
Political Accusations and Denials
Former YSRCP MLA from Gurazala, Kasu Mahesh Reddy, made serious allegations about the incident. He stated that party cadres and local leaders face daily attacks and death threats. Reddy claimed these assaults often occur in police presence, similar to what happened with Salman.
YSRCP state coordinator Sajjala Rama Krishna Reddy echoed these concerns. He described the incident as following a familiar pattern of attacks on party activists. Reddy accused the ruling coalition of misusing power and the police system. He alleged they target political opponents with illegal cases and harassment.
The YSRCP has promised full support to Salman's family during this difficult time.
TDP's Response and Police Position
TDP spokesperson Deepak Reddy offered a different perspective on the situation. He dismissed the allegations as fallout from personal rivalries rather than political violence. The party maintains this was not an organized political attack.
Local police authorities presented another angle to the story. Inspector Ponnuru Bhaskar stated he and his team were unaware of the attack on Salman. He explained they were busy overseeing security arrangements for the Sankranti festival in the area.
Broader Political Context
This incident highlights the ongoing political tensions in Andhra Pradesh. It comes at a sensitive time during festival celebrations when security concerns are heightened. The allegations and counter-allegations reflect the deep political divisions in the state.
Both parties have traded accusations about political violence since the change in government. The YSRCP claims systematic targeting of their workers, while the TDP denies these allegations. This case adds another chapter to the contentious political narrative in Andhra Pradesh.
The situation remains tense in Palnadu district as political leaders from both sides monitor developments. The incident has drawn attention to the broader issue of political violence in the region. It raises questions about security for political workers across party lines.
