Did Chandrababu Naidu’s surprise route change trigger violence in Punganur?

In a shocking display of aggression, Punganur town in Andhra Pradesh was thrown into chaos during Telugu Desam (TDP) Chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu‘s visit, leading to the arrest of around 40 individuals. These arrests were made following alarming instances of stone-pelting and arson, leaving several police officers and political party supporters severely wounded.

Top officials weigh in on the disturbing incidents

DGP K. V. Rajendranath Reddy announced strict repercussions for those involved, emphasizing that the protestors not only pelted stones but also damaged a total of five vehicles, police vehicles among them. The DGP highlighted swift police action and revealed that CCTV footage is being scrutinized to ensure all culprits are identified. A statement from DIG Anantapur R.N. Ammi Reddy indicated that the troubling events might have been premeditated. He pointed out Nara Chandrababu Naidu’s rally had no official permission to enter Punganur, and the violence erupted after the TDP cadre rerouted their march, sparking a confrontation with law enforcement.

Violence erupts in Punganur during Chandrababu Naidu’s rally, numerous injured. Photo courtesy of Hemshah171095/Wikimedia Commons.

The consequence of the unexpected route diversion

DGP K. V. Rajendranath Reddy further explained the unexpected route diversion: “While around 400 police personnel maintained peace, the TD cadre’s sudden decision to enter Punganur rather than take a bypass led to clashes. This sudden change and the police’s intervention triggered aggressive responses including stone and bottle pelting.”

Critical injuries sustained amidst the chaos

Adding to the narrative, SP Y. Rishanth Reddy noted the challenges faced by the police during their efforts to control the volatile situation. Their attempts were met with severe aggression, culminating in injuries to both police personnel and supporters from both the TDP and YSRC.

Rising demands for accountability

In a bold move, AP Police Officers’ Association state president J. Srinivas Rao called for Chandrababu Naidu’s arrest, accusing the TDP chief of inflaming tensions with provocative speech and accusing him of undermining Punganur’s law and order.