The Palnadu district police have been continuing their search for those who indulged in violence, irrespective of their party affiliations, both on the day of polling on May 13 and in its aftermath.
Actually, more violent incidents took place in Palnadu district during and after Lok Sabha polls than anywhere else in Andhra Pradesh.
Under orders from the Election Commission of India (ECI)’s Special Investigation Team (SIT), constituted by the state government to inquire into 33 cases spread over three districts—Palndau, Anantapur and Tirupathi. Out of which, 22 incidents were reported from Palnadu district alone—Narasaraopeta (10), Macherla (8) and Gurazala (4). Of the total 33 cases involving all these people mentioned above, there were a total number of accused involved around 1,370 people out of whom only this area had come up with approximately 581 people who were indulged in these acts.
According to sources familiar with investigation process SIT is also investigating a case where YSRCP incumbent MLA and contestant from Macherla Pinnelli Ramakrishna Reddy was alleged to have vandalised a polling station wherein he destroyed EVMs and VVPAT machines while polling was underway at that time.
Subsequently, he allegedly left his home under house arrest headed for Hyderabad to escape anti-terrorist law enforcement agencies. Later however the Election Commission ordered his arrest so as to ensure that he be investigated over charges relating to damage caused on voting equipment. The search continued for two days when Mr. Ramakrishna Reddy approached the State High Court on May 23 seeking interim protect from arrest until June 5; an application which was allowed.
At this point SP Malika Garg informed media that they had already taken into custody thirteen persons whose part in crimes yet remained uncertain according to Sit. Moreover, 63 people were rounded up in the district for various crimes committed prior to and after the polling.
Preventive measures
To this extent, she mentioned that 74 people were bound over—Narasaraopeta (1), Sattenapalli (46) and Gurazala (27). In Narasaraopeta five persons had rowdy-sheets opened against them. According to her, five bound over individuals violated the laid regulations and consequently would be taken to court.
“Therefore, we will exercise close vigilance on these persons till all general elections processes are through,” he explained.
General election results will be announced on June 4th while the Model Code of Conduct ends on June 6th according to ECI guidelines.
