YSRCs multiple capitals decision foolish: Nara Lokesh

GUNTUR: Establishing multiple cities as capitals is one of the most foolish decisions of the YSRC government, TDP general secretary Nara Lokesh said in an interview with TNIE. Exuding confidence that he will win the Mangalagiri Assembly seat, the former IT minister said he implemented 29 welfare and development schemes for the people of the constituency in the past four years and 11 months. On lessons learnt after the 2019 defeat, Lokesh said the TDP began aggressively countering YSRCs false propaganda. Stating that the ruling party has failed to maintain a balance between welfare and development, he assured that the TDP will provide 20 lakh jobs to the youth, which will in turn improve the economy of the State by two-and-a-half times. With only a few weeks left for the elections, how is your election campaign in Mangalagiri? I covered 3,132 km as part of my Yuva Galam Padayatra across the State to know the peoples problems. Now, I am fully concentrated on my own Assembly constituency to reach out to the people. I am going on a Statewide tour next week to interact with the youth. Since the inception of Mangalagiri constituency, the TDP won the seat in 1983 and 1985 only. What made you choose Mangalagiri to contest in the first place? I am a third generation politician. I did not want to go for a safe seat. I always believe that one should take a tough seat, fight hard and win to prove oneself. I failed in my first attempt as I did not have enough time and I was not able to win the trust of people of Mangalagiri in 2019. Since the day I lost, Ive been working hard and serving the people of Mangalagiri to win their trust for the past four-years-and-11-months. I am confident that they elect me with a huge majority this time. After the 2019 defeat, what changes did you make in your election strategy? We are now able to aggressively counter the false propaganda unleashed by the ruling dispensation against us. They are very good at false propaganda. Well that is something probably we need to learn from them. How to tell a lie and convince people so effectively. When former minister YS Vivenkananda Reddy was assassinated, the TDP was blamed for it. When the CBI began inquiry, it is Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddys own family member YS Avinash Reddy, who is again contesting from Kadapa as an MP, was named in the chargesheet. Jagan has destroyed the State economically. There are no employment opportunities. Youth have become disillusioned and they are not able to focus on things. If you observe, the ganja menace has gone up substantially. There is a need to get them out of its influence, and provide a good ecosystem to the youth of Andhra Pradesh, reintegrate back and they will definitely get jobs and thats what we are aiming to do now. The YSRC has fielded Murugudu Lavanya, who hails from the weaver community, against you. How confident are you to win against the YSRC candidate? I have served all the sections of people in Mangalagiri without any discrimination. In the last four years, I have implemented 29 welfare and development schemes in the constituency with my own funds. I believe that I have reached out to the people, cutting across the caste and religious lines. The people will certainly give their massive mandate to me this time. What about the influence of local factor in the election? At the end of the day, it is a matter of fact that I was not born here. I was born and brought up in Hyderabad. Post bifurcation of the State, I shifted to Mangalagiri. I have been living here for the last eight years. My vote and my entire familys votes are registered here. So, Im as much local as everyone else in the constituency know. Actually, I believe that people will observe who has served them not local or local. What are the major issues of the people you observed at the ground level during your Yuva Galam Padayatra? The peoples answer to my question what are you expecting from the government? is Provide us jobs. Do whatever it takes to give us jobs. So, if you look at the promises we have given, our first promise in the manifesto is to create 20 lakh jobs, both in the private and public sector. Number two is, lack of basic infrastructure in every constituency. The YSRC government has completely neglected drinking water, roads and drainage system. When I was the Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Minister, CC roads were laid to a length of 25,000 km across the State. We will create better infrastructure everywhere to improve the quality of living. Third is the prevalence of ganja. It has destroyed families. Now, Andhra Pradesh has become the net exporter of ganja to other States. If ganja is found in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and other States, it has come from Andhra Pradesh. We will put an end to ganja menace in the first 100 days of our government. These are the three major issues that Ive noticed. You are saying that job creation will be your top priority. If we take the IT sector, many companies are laying off their employees. In this scenario, do you think is it possible to create more jobs in IT sector? IT is one of many sectors. If you look at Andhra Pradesh, it is clearly a large State. Coastal based economy can be promoted in a big way. Each district has a focus area. If you look at Anantapur, automobiles is its focus area, electronics manufacturing in Chittoor, renewable energy and cement in Kurnool, like that. Every district has a focus area and IT is probably focused in Visakhapatnam. So, we believe that we have the ecosystem already in place. A lot of companies got seated in our term and we can create a spin off companies in the entire ecosystem. We will create both blue and white collar jobs. It is not just focused on IT alone. There are huge opportunities in pharma sector in North Andhra. In IT, new jobs are being created through AI. Big Data is again a big sector. If you look at it, we had a specific policy for data centers and thats what we got Adanis for. We signed a project with them, unfortunately, it didnt go forward due to the current government. Thats the project, Im eager to restart, when the government changes. I think such sectors, if we focus on new sectors, we can create more jobs. After accusing YSRC of spending more money on welfare schemes and neglecting development of the State, the TDP has announced Super 6 and promised to double the allocation for the welfare schemes, which are very similar to what are already being implemented by the government. Is it correct? If you closely look at it, you know the difference. The monthly support that we promised to women, is not part of any current scheme. Provision of three free LPG cylinders a year is not part of any existing scheme. We have come up with our own manifesto after seeing the suffering of the people at the grass root level. The first of Super Six is to create 20 lakh jobs. That will enhance the economy by two-and-a-half times. What we are criticising this government is that it is making debts to spend on welfare. That is hurting the people. It is creating an inflation problem. Power charges have increased, taxes have gone up. Everything is going up. It should not be not like that. There should be a balance between welfare and development, and the TDP is known for it. If you look at the Deepam scheme, it was originally introduced by the TDP. Considering the existing financial position of the State, do you think balancing both welfare and development is practically possible? We had the same problem in 1995. In 1995, the State was in a huge debt. But the then Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, with his growth vision and planning was able to turn around the State. We are more than capable of doing it and people have seen it. Is there still any friction among leaders and cadres of TDP, BJP and Jana Sena Party? It is very common that small issues crop up in a family time and again. But, as the head of the family, the father and the mother sit together and resolve the issues. Similarly, all the leaders of three parties will sit and resolve the issues if any. I am not saying every marriage is perfect. In fact, lets put it in the other way, no marriage is perfect. Every marriage has its issues. Again it all depends on how you resolve the issues. Minor issues keep coming, small clashes and differences, but at the end of the day, we resolve these issues and move on. Because our agenda is very clear, and it is to develop the State. If we have to develop the State, it is only possible with the tripartite alliance. In the present political scenario, do you think the vote transfer will occur as successfully as expected? One 100%. We expect 100% vote transfer to avoid split in anti-incumbency vote to ensure the YSRCs defeat in the elections. Because, all the three parties are motivating their cadres explaining to them the importance and making sure even one vote doesnt go outside of the alliance. Unlike in other States, politicians in our State are using inflammatory language in their election speeches and even TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu. What is the need for it? I dont believe that Chandrababu Naidu is using inflammatory language, fundamentally. In fact, if you notice, he is one of the most balanced politicians in the country. He never takes anything for granted. There are certain brand annotations for every leader. For Jagan Mohan Reddy, it has been psycho as his brand annotation. And its because of his erratic behaviour. The three capital proposal is an erratic behaviour. Because you promised only one capital. While you were entering this premises, you saw Praja Vedika that had been destroyed by his government. It was legal, it was legally constructed, and he destroyed it. Because he is not of a stable mind. If you look at his policies, if you look at his behaviour, thats what we are explaining to the people. So, we are not using any inflammatory language during our electioneering to create a rift between castes, regions and religions. Thats not something the TDP is into. With elections just a few weeks away, when can we expect the joint manifesto from the tripartite alliance? Thats something we are working on. All of us are committed to Babus Super Six policy. Thats something and thats related after the discussions with JSP chief Pawan Kalyan. We have come together to discuss it. Subsequently, we had a detailed discussion with the BJP. Thats the cornerstone of our election manifesto and we are going to announce it soon. If TDP comes to power, would you like to serve as IT Minister for the second time, or are you interested in any other ministry? Ill leave it to the tripartite alliance leadership. The alliance leadership has to decide it. Its not for me to comment on that. My job is to serve the people. In power or out of power, we are trained by Mr Naidu to do one thing, serve the people. Even during the Covid-19 pandemic also, we were busy serving the people. That is what we are hardwired to do and we will continue to do. We are going to remain very focused. As Lokesh, Im very focused on serving Mangalagiri people, people of Andhra Pradesh and Telugu people at large. That is the motto of TDP. Watch the full video of the interview on TNIE Videos on YouTube

Heat Wave Sweeps Rayalaseema, Rains Lash ASR District

Commuters cover themselves with scarves to escape the heat wave in Nellore (Photo: Deccan Chronicle) Visakhapatnam : Some parts in Rayalaseema region of AP suffered searing heat conditions for the second time in the season on Sunday. ASR district, however, witnessed thunderstorms, which lashed Paderu and Chintapalli for the second day. Visakhapatnam region remained cool as the sky remained overcast for the entire day. Visakhapatnam registered a temperature of 35.4 degrees Celsius while Kalingapatnam recorded 35.1 degrees Celsius, making it the coldest place in the state for the day. A report from IMD Amaravati said two places in AP recorded more than 45 degree Celsius temperatures on Sunday, the first time in April this year. People across the state felt the pinch of the rise in mercury levels, compelling many people to remain indoors for the entire day. On Sunday (April 28), Nandyal was the hottest in the state with 45.6C, followed by Kurnool (45.2C), Anantapur (44.1C), Jangamaheswarapuram (44C), Kadapa (43.6C), Nandigama (43C), Tirupati (42.9C) and Amaravati (42.2C). The remaining parts of the state recorded maximum temperatures between 39C and 41C. On Saturday (April 27), Nandyal was the hottest in the state with 44.9C, followed by Kurnool (44.5C), Anantapur (43.7C), Kadapa (43.4C), Jangamaheswarapuram (43.2C) and Tirupati (42.9C). Mercury levels are likely to rise above 45C at many places in Rayalaseema region and in some parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh during the first week of May, said Dr. S. Karuna Sagar, scientist at IMD Amaravati. Many political leaders rescheduled their campaign timing from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. However, in north coastal Andhra, the campaign went on for the entire day, as the temperature remained moderate.

Jagan will secure bigger majority in Pulivendula: Bharathi

Anantapur: Y.S. Bharathi, the spouse of Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, exuded confidence on Sunday, stating that Jagan's upcoming victory in Pulivendula would surpass previous election results. Amidst a fervent campaign in Kadapa district, Bharathi engaged with diverse segments of the populace, witnessing overwhelming support for Jagan across the constituency. She emphasized Jagan's commitment to delivering on manifesto pledges, contrasting his approach with Chandrababu Naidu's history of unfulfilled promises. Bharathi reaffirmed her unwavering support for Jagan, continuing a tradition established by her late father-in-law, Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy and reiterated her dedication to serving the electorate.

Kadapa mans free coaching centre helps underprivileged realise goals

KADAPA: A dedicated social worker has been providing free coaching to underprivileged students in the rural areas of Kadapa district for over a decade, helping them secure admissions into prestigious educational institutions though entrance exams. Mommel Raju, a 41-year-old lab technician working at a blood bank in Pulivendula, has been running a free coaching centre under the banner of Snehitha Amritha Hastham service society since 2010. Driven by a desire to support underprivileged students, Raju established the centre to offer free training for the POLYCET and AP RJC- CET entrance exams, which are gateways to higher education. In an era where affluent families can afford expensive coaching for their children, Raju recognised the struggles faced by students from impoverished backgrounds. His vision was to level the playing field and provide equal opportunities to those unable to afford professional guidance. What started with a single teacher and 25 students has grown into a remarkable initiative, benefiting over 3,000 students across 14 years. Each year, approximately 250 students from Pulivendula and surrounding areas receive free coaching from a dedicated team of 35 experienced teachers from government and private institutions. The impact of this initiative has been profound. Students who have undergone training at the free coaching centre have consistently secured impressive ranks in the entrance exams, gaining admissions into prestigious government and private colleges. Their success stories have not only brought pride to their families but have also inspired countless others in the region. Madhavi and Prasanna, two students who benefited from the free coaching, expressed their heartfelt gratitude. As students from rural areas with limited resources, we were uncertain about our future after completing X grade. This free coaching initiative has been a guiding light, providing us with the necessary support and direction to pursue higher education, they stated. Raju expressed his sincere appreciation to the volunteer teaching staff, parents, and school authorities who have supported the initiative. Although we had limited time to prepare for the entrance exams, the dedicated teachers ensured comprehensive training to our students, he said. I extend my gratitude to everyone involved in making this initiative a success.

Andhra Pradesh Sizzles As Temperatures Spike

There is a severe water crisis. She had gone to fetch water, where she felt giddy and collapsed, said the deceased's uncle, as quoted in a report. (Representational image) There is a severe water crisis. She had gone to fetch water, where she felt giddy and collapsed, said the deceased's uncle, as quoted in a report. (Representational image) Visakhapatnam: Andhra Pradesh witnessed a scorching Saturday as Nandyal became the first location in the state to record a scorching 45C. This intense heat forced many residents across the state to seek refuge indoors.The India Meteorological Departments (IMD) Amaravati branch reported that other cities and towns were not far behind, with Kurnool reaching 44.5C, Anantapur at 43.7C, Kadapa at 43.4C, Jangamaheswarapuram at 43.2C, and Tirupati at 42.9C. The rest of the state experienced highs ranging from 39C to 41C. Theres a possibility of mercury levels exceeding 45C in many Rayalaseema areas and some coastal Andhra Pradesh (CAP) locations during the first week of May, warned Dr S. Karuna Sagar, a scientist at IMD-Amaravati. More locations in Rayalaseema and CAP are expected to be gripped by heat waves starting today due to persistent dry winds, Karunasagar added. The intense heat and humidity resulted in deserted streets in several parts of Rayalaseema and CAP, particularly in Nandyal, Kurnool, and a few other Rayalaseema towns.The IMD forecasts a continuation of heat wave conditions in Rayalaseema from April 28th to May 1st. Meanwhile, CAP can expect hot and humid weather with a slight chance of evening thunderstorms during the same period. With scorching temperatures and high humidity prevailing across most of the state, the IMD advises residents to avoid venturing outdoors between 11 am and 3 pm.

64 mandals in Andhra Pradesh likely to experience severe heatwave conditions today

VISAKHAPATNAM : Dry weather conditions persist in the State as severe heatwaves grip multiple mandals across various districts. On Saturday, 64 mandals, including three in Alluri Sitarama Raju, six in Anakapalli, two each in East Godavari and Eluru, one in Kakinada, 13 in Parvathipuram Manyam, 15 in Srikakulam, and 22 in Vizianagaram, are expected to experience severe heat waves, while 183 mandals are forecast to encounter heatwave conditions. The India Meteorological Departments Amaravati Centre reports that isolated places in Rayalaseema are likely to witness heatwaves on Saturday. Additionally, hot, humid weather is expected at isolated locations in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh (NCAP), Yanam, and South Coastal Andhra Pradesh (SCAP). Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph are also predicted in isolated parts of NCAP and Yanam. The heatwave conditions are expected to persist until April 30, with isolated places in Rayalaseema likely to experience heatwaves. Discomforting weather conditions are anticipated at isolated locations in NCAP, Yanam, and SCAP. On Friday, 41 mandals reported severe heatwaves, while 116 mandals recorded heatwave conditions. Nandyala registered the highest maximum temperature at 44.6 degrees Celsius, followed closely by Kurnool at 44, Anantapur at 43.4, Kadapa at 43.2, and Tirupati at 43.3 degrees Celsius. According to the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority, since April 1, four districtsAlluri Sitarama Raju, Nandyal, Parvathipuram Manyam, and Nellorehave reported the highest temperature of 45.8 degrees Celsius. Additionally, 26 other locations throughout the State have recorded temperatures exceeding 42 degrees Celsius.

TD, YSRC Supporters Try to Storm Tadipatri ROs Office

ANANTAPUR: The TD and YSRC cadres tried to storm the Tadipatri returning officer (RO)s premises during the scrutiny of nominations on Friday. YSRCs team objected to spelling of the TD candidates name in the B. form vis-a-vis the one filed at the time of filing nominations. The ruling party team demanded that the candidature of JC Asmith Reddy be rejected. TD leader and Tadipatri municipal chairman J.C. Prabhakar Reddy raised objection over the nomination of the YSRC candidate, contending that the constituencys name has been spelt wrong. As the two groups started getting restive, police forces drove them away using lathis. The returning officer accepted the nominations of both the TD and YSRC. Devinenis nomination rejected Kadapa Lok Sabha returning officer has rejected the nomination of Devineni Shivashankar Reddy, an accused in former MP Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy murder case. Shivashankar Reddy had filed nomination as an independent candidate from Kadapa parliamentary constituency. The RO said Shivashankar Reddys nomination has been rejected as his affidavit is not as per norms of the Election Commission.

Police observer inspects strongrooms in Kadapa district

Avinash has done no wrong, says Jagan

PULIVENDULA(KADAPA) : Defending YS Avinash Reddy, the incumbent Kadapa MP and YSRCs candidate for the Parliament segment, Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy said, The people of this district know, who killed my uncle YS Vivekananda Reddy. Avinash has done nothing wrong, and I strongly believe that, so I gave the ticket to him to contest the election. Addressing a large gathering at the CSI grounds in Pulivendula, before filing his nomination on Thursday, the YSRC president asserted that Pulivendula will continue to grow forever. He noted that Pulivendulas success story is a reflection of his and his partys commitment to doing good and staying on the right path. Mocking the opposition leaders, he said, Unable to face me alone in the political arena, the TDP, JSP and BJP have united to conspire against me. Unfortunately, my two sisters (YS Sharmila and Sunita Narreddy) are being used as part of their conspiracy. Holding the Congress responsible for the bifurcation of the State and neglecting to include special category status in the State Reorganisation Act, Jagan asked the gathering if anyone would even vote for the party that divided the State. It was Congress which tried to hide YSR legacy. Congress didnt even receive as many votes as NOTA did, he pointed out. It may be pertinent to note that Jagans sister and APCC chief YS Sharmila is contesting against Avinash in Kadapa. This perhaps could be the reason why the Chief Minister attacked the Congress. Taking exception to TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu and his allies for often disparagingly describing Pulivendula and its culture, Jagan said, The culture of Pulivendula, Kadapa and Rayalaeema signify fearlessness. Jagan to address three public meetings from April 28 YSRC president and Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy will start his third phase of poll campaign from April 28. Jagan will be addressing three public meetings daily. On day one, he will address public meetings in Tadipatri, Venkatagiri and Kandukuru Assembly constituencies. On April 29, he will address gatherings in Chodavaram, P Gannavaram and Ponnur. Younger sisters have become part of Opposition conspiracy, alleges Jagan Accusing Naidu, JSP president Pawan Kalyan, and BJP State chief D Purandeswari of attempting to tarnish the legacies of YSR, he said, With their encouragement, some people (referring to Sharmila) are trying to paint themselves as the heirs of YSR. Charging the Opposition with trying to destroy Avinashs life, the YSRC chief said, My younger sisters have become part of the opposition conspiracy. They are hanging around with those who unfairly defeated Vivekananda in the MLC election. Stating that the people have to decide the successor of the YS Rajasekhara Reddy, he asked, After joining the party (Congress) that orchestrated conspiracies against YSR, do these persons think they are the heirs of YSR? How can those who now wear yellow sarees be the true heirs of YSR? Stating that voting for Congress is as good as voting Naidu, the Chief Minister said, Who will benefit if our votes are divided? It will be the TDP supremo and BJP. Striking an emotional chord with the people of Pulivendula, Jagan said, Pulivendula is my heartbeat, it is the very definition of development, trust, and success story. Today, the flowing waters of Krishna River in Pulivendula stand testimony to the unwavering determination of my father, the great leader YS Rajasekhara Reddy. Credit for the development of Pulivendula goes to him. If he took two steps, as his son I took another two steps to ensure that not just Pulivendula, but the entire State is developed, he said. Elaborating on the initiatives he has taken for the development of Pulivendula Assembly constituency, Jagan said, unlike in the past, 10 TMC of water is being stored in Chitravati Balancing Reservoir, benefiting the farmers of the region. Similarly, Paidipalem Reservoir is also filled. Yerraballi Lift irrigation works taken up at Rs 1,000 crore are under progress. The water grid project taken up at Rs 480 crore for drinking water is almost ready, he highlighted. The people of Pulivendula have for a long time wanted a medical college. We will start that college soon, he promised the people. I didnt assume the role of Chief Minister to accumulate wealth or advance my familys interests. God has bestowed upon me this position to serve the people, the YSRC Chief asserted.

Jagans remark on saree shameful: YS Sharmila

VIJAYAWADA: In a vehement rebuttal to the remarks made by her brother and YSRC president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, APCC chief YS Sharmila Reddy said her brother seems to have no shame for commenting on the colours of sarees worn by his sisters. Addressing a public meeting in Guntur on Thursday, she sought to know why Jagan has to stoop to such a low. Calling her brother uncultured for commenting on the colour of her saree, she demanded to know, Does TDP have any patent on yellow colour or has the party purchased it? Jagan seems to have forgotten that the display of his news channel was yellow colour, which was recommended by YS Rajasekhara Reddy as he believed the colour signifies a good omen. Responding to the Chief Ministers allegations that she reads out of a script prepared by TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu, she said, I dont need to read scripts prepared by others. It is Jagan who reads the script prepared for him verbatim. I am the daughter of YSR, and I dont have to lower my head before anyone. Sharmila, who is contesting the Kadapa MP seat against her cousin YS Avinash Reddy, opined that Jagan lowered himself before Prime Minister Narendra Modi and became his foster son. Has he ever spoken on the States interests? He is the heir of Modi and not YSR, she quipped and questioned Jagans silence over the violence in Manipur. Why did Jagan support Modi when so many Christians were being killed? she sought to know. Claiming that none of those who follow Jagan are his well-wishers, she said, Women, who spoke ill of YSR are now his sisters. Those who insulted YSR in the Assembly are his relatives. Refuting the allegations that the CBI included YSRs name in the chargesheet, Sharmila said the fact is that it was Jagan who, through his lawyer Sudhakar Reddy, included YSRs name in the chargesheet by filing a petition so that he could get bail in the case. She challenged Jagan to clarify on the matter. Earlier, the APCC chief addressed public meetings in Vijayawada and Sattenapalle. She criticised the YSRC government for rendering the State without a capital. Speaking to mediapersons in Pulivendula, Vivekananda Reddys daughter Suneetha Narreddy said that if her husband N Rajasekhar Reddy is an accused in her fathers murder, he should be arrested. Whoever is responsible, should be arrested. All I seek is justice for my father, she added. Pointing out that Pulivnedula was developed due to the efforts of YSR and Vivekananda Reddy, she asked why Jagan omitted the contribution of Vivekananda Reddy. Further, she demanded the Chief Minister to come clean on why he withdrew his demand for a CBI inquiry into Vivekas murder. A doctor by profession, Sunitha advised Jagan to remove the bandage on his forehead so that air can pass through or else it would get infected.

Jagan has 30,000 cash in hand for family

ANANTAPUR : Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has in his affidavit filed along with his nomination papers mentioned that his family, including him, wife and two daughters have 30,000 in cash with them. The CM filed his nomination papers with the returning officer of the Pulivendula Assembly constituency in Kadapa district on Thursday. Jagan Mohan Reddy has mentioned that he has 7,000 cash, while wife Bharathi has 10,022 and elder daughter Harshini has 9,000 and second daughter Varsha Reddy has 6,987 with them. As per the affidavit, the family does not own vehicles on their name, except a bulletproof vehicle registered in the name of Jagan Mohan Reddy following the directive of the home ministry. Though the bullet-proof vehicle is on his name, it is not owned by him, the Chief Minister clarified. Among other details are Jagan Mohan Reddy not owning any gold or diamond jewellery. His wife Bharathi has 6,427.79 grams of gold and diamonds worth 5.29 crore, elder daughter has 4,187.19 grams of gold and diamonds worth of 4.43 crore and younger daughter has 3,457 grams of gold and diamonds worth of 4.46 crore, as per the market value. The CM has paid income tax of 4.65 crore, while Bharathi has under protest paid IT of 1.56 crore. His daughters have paid 10.85 lakh and 10.39 lakh as advance tax. Movable assets of Jagan Mohan Reddy are worth 483.08 crore, while those of Bharathi are 119.38 crore. Harshini has movable assets of 22.94 crore and offshore assets worth 1.31 crore. Varsha has movable assets of 22.39 crore and offshore assets of 1.54 crore. The Idupulapaya land owned by the family is 39.52 acres, whose present worth is 1.54 crore.

Cash, Items of Rs 165.91 Crore Seized in AP After Release of Election Schedule

Vijayawada: Chief Electoral Officer Mukesh Meena has said cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals, free bees and other items worth more than Rs 165.91 crore have been seized since the announcement of the election schedule in AP. He said that as the general elections are slated for May 13 in the state, a strong vigil has been kept on the illegal transportation of cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals etc that might be distributed by candidates or parties to attract voters. Through inter-state as well as other check posts in the state, more than 20 enforcement agencies such as police, excise, income tax, forest, ED, NCB, RPF, customs etc are on constant vigil against illegal transportation of cash and goods for election-related canvassing. Illegally transported assets worth Rs 8.65 crore have been seized in the last 24 hours alone. The highest amount of Rs 30.66 crore was seized in Anantapur LS constituency and the lowest amount of Rs 1.15 crore in Narsapuram LS. The total amount seized till date was Rs 36.89 crore in cash, 6,62,402.65 litres of liquor worth Rs 20.32 crore, 52,28,218.94 grams of drugs worth Rs 2.78 crore, 14,73,734.46 grams of precious metals worth Rs 91.26 crore, 4,88,557 items worth Rs 2.90 crore, Freebies (freebies) and other items worth Rs 11.74 crore were seized, he said. In Tirupati (SC), Rs 19.37 crore was seized; Kakinada Rs 18.18 crore, Elur Rs 13.77 crore, Visakhapatnam Rs 12.50 crore, Rajampet Rs 6.96 crore, Vijayawada Rs 6.75 crore, Nandyala Rs 5.63 crore, Kadapa Rs 5.62 crore, Narasaraopet Rs 4.61 crore, Vizianagaram Rs 4.18 crore, Bapatla (SC) Rs 3.99 crore, Anakapalli Rs 3.72 crore, Rajahmundry Rs 3.62 crore, Srikakulam Rs 3.61 crore, Araku (ST) Rs 3.37 crore, Nellore Rs 3 crore, Machilipatnam Rs 2.87 crore, Guntur Rs 2.75 crore, Kurnool Rs 2.45 crore, Chittoor (SC) Rs 1.94 crore, Ongole Rs 1.93 crore, Hindupur Rs 1.63 crore and in Amalapuram (SC) Rs 1.52 crore.

AP CM Jagan gives clean chit to Avinash Reddy in Vivekananda Reddy murder case

Pulivendula: YSRCP chief Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy on Thursday gave a clean chit to his cousin and party Kadapa Lok Sabha candidate Y S Avinash Reddy in connection with the murder of Y S Vivekananda Reddy. Vivekananda Reddy was former Kadapa MP and the younger brother of former Andhra Pradesh CM Y S Rajasekhar Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

AP: YSRCP chief Jagan Mohan Reddy files nomination for Pulivendula

Amaravati: YSRCP chief and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy on Thursday filed his nomination for Pulivendula Assembly seat. Jagan Mohan Reddy was accompanied by the party candidate for the Kadapa Lok Sabha seat Y S Avinash Reddy and others. Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy filed his nomination papers in Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

YSRCP chief Jagan Mohan Reddy files nomination for Pulivendula seat in Andhra Pradesh

AMARAVATI: YSRCP chief and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy on Thursday filed his nomination for Pulivendula Assembly seat. Jagan Mohan Reddy was accompanied by the party candidate for the Kadapa Lok Sabha seat Y S Avinash Reddy and others. Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy filed his nomination papers in Pulivendula, officially submitted his candidacy to the Pulivendula Returning Officer, said a press release. Earlier on Monday, local YSRCP leaders from Pulivendula filed a set of nomination papers on behalf of the ruling party chief. Assembly elections will be held simultaneously with the Assembly polls on May 13. 'Will fulfil peoples dreams with schemes,' says Jagan Mohan Reddy

Vivekananda Reddys wife questions Jagans Kadapa MP candidate pick

Kadapa: YS Sowbhagya Reddy, wife of former minister, late YS Vivekananda Reddy who was murdered in 2019, wrote to Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, questioning his choice of candidate for the Kadapa Lok Sabha seat. Sowbhagya, in her letter, reminded Jagan Mohan Reddy that the pain he would have undergone when his father Dr Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

TDP candidate Madhavi Reddy files nomination for Kadapa Assembly seat, releases mini manifesto

Jagan to file nomination in Pulivendula on Thursday

Andhra Pradesh: Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy will file nomination papers for contesting from Pulivendula Assembly constituency in YSR district on Thursday at 11.25 am. With Memantha Sidham bus coming to end on Wednesday in Srikakulam district, Jagan will leave for Pulivendula from Gannavaram airport in a flight at 8.15 am on Thursday and reach Kadapa airport at 9.05 am to file the nomination papers. Before reaching the returning officers (RO) office at YSR junction, Jagan will address a public meeting at CSI grounds in Pulivendula. After completing formalities at ROs office, he will board a flight bound to Gannavaram and reach his residence at Tadepalli in Guntur district at 2.30 pm. After successful conduct of Memantha Sidham bus yatra, the YSRCP is chalking out action plans to hold at least two public meetings in each Assembly constituency as part of election campaign and sensitize people on the importance of reelecting the party to continue the welfare scheme and other development activities in the State.

Will TDPs risky bet in Kadapa prove fruitful to thwart YSRC hat-trick?

KADAPA: For the last three decades, Kadapa Assembly constituency has been represented by candidates from the Muslim community, irrespective of which party they belong to. Notwithstanding the trend, the TDP has fielded Reddapgari Madhavi Reddy, a Hindu. She is the wife of TDP politburo member R Srinivasulu Reddy. On the other hand, the YSRC has renominated sitting MLA and Deputy Chief Minister (Minority Welfare) SB Amzad Basha, who is vying to secure a hat-trick win. Political analysts have opined that the decision of the TDP to rope in a Hindu candidate might polarise the voters of the Kadapa Assembly constituency on communal lines. The constituency has a significant population of both Hindus and Muslims and they often dictate the outcome of any election. Keeping this in mind, the ruling YSRC, in a bid to maintain communal balance in the city, nominates Muslims to legislative posts and allocates Mayor seats to Hindus. Some of the top concerns of the voters in the constituency include the unaddressed drinking water woes, pending projects to beautify Bugganvanka stream and Old Kadapa Tank and construction of high-level bridges. The Rs 462-crore project proposed to divert water from Brahma Sagar to address drinking water problems in Kadapa is still at the initial stage. Additionally, works to construct service roads leading to the protection wall of Buggavanka, infamous as the sorrow of Kadapa, are yet to be taken up. Stormwater drainage works, which were taken up at a cost of Rs 69.20 crore, are yet to be completed. Amid this backdrop, incumbent MLA Amzad Basha has been campaigning to seek public mandate. He is going from door to door and explaining people how his party and him have strived to ensure welfare of the people of Kadapa, irrespective of caste and community. There are several more issues that need to be addressed and I assure you that once I get re-elected, I will strive to address all those issues on a top priority basis, he tells voters during his campaigns. Criticising the Deputy CM, Madhavi Reddy says, Amzad Basha, though part of the cabinet, has done nothing for Kadapa. All his focus has been on improving his and his relatives wealth. Every street in Kadapa is an example of negligence of the incumbent MLA. She and her husband Srinivasulu have been campaigning from the time the party nominated her. However, they have not been getting the support needed from TDP leaders VS Amir Babu, who aspired for a ticket for the segment, and Lakshmi Reddy, who sought a ticket for his daughter-in-law Uma. Srinivasulu is reportedly not making much effort to pacify them. Nonetheless, a keen contest is being expected between the two.

Palegars Faction Feud Turning Old Story in Seema Politics

Anantapur: The centuries-old faction rivalry in Palegar is largely a thing of the past today, with attempts being made by some leaders for compromises and deals with their enemies, so as to eschew violence at various levels in Rayalaseema region. They are following the footsteps of the leaders from faction-hit families, who kept their children away from such practices. Thousands of children with faction backgrounds have changed course, abhorred violence and are now employed as software engineers or are handling white collar jobs in respectable professions. This has prompted the elders too to keep themselves away from faction rivalry during the past decade. Even top leaders like Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy, Kethineni Suryaprathap Reddy, Paritala, Maddelacheruvu Suri, Ramsubba Reddy, Adinarayana Reddy, and the Katasani family shunned faction rivalry and succeeded in persuading their followers to not get involved in faction feud. This changed for the better the lives of hundreds of faction-hit families. Faction violence had its roots in medieval history after the chieftains (palegars) of various villages and forts became independent rulers since 1565. This was after the Talikota battle, when faction rivalries had polluted the political system in the region. Faction leaders turned themselves into political leaders to outwit their rivals. Compromise deals and an urge on the part of some faction leaders to work in the same party along with rival leaders eventually led to a decline in faction feud even in the villages where the rivalries were often hard-edged. Top-level leaders realised that faction feud must be stopped at some level through compromise and this also involved, say, pardoning a rival who killed ones family members. For instance, former chief minister YS Rajasekhar Reddy never encouraged his aides to target those who had brutally killed his father, YS Raja Reddy, two decades ago. Recently, Sathish Reddy, TD leader from Pulivendula, who faced allegations in the case, joined the YSRC in the presence of YS Jagan Mohan Reddy at Pulivendula. The wheel has turned full circle. Jammalamadugu, a hard-core faction-hit area in Kadapa district, is an example of a compromise deal between rival faction leaders. The two and half decades-long rivalry between the families of former minister P Siva Reddy and his adversary Devagudi Sankar Reddy had spawned many violent incidents. P Ramasubba Reddy, a TD leader, had been convicted in a double-murder case during the Congress rule. He was an active leader of the YSRC. Former minister Adinaryana Reddy joined the TD but he is now contesting as the BJP candidate in Jammalamadugu. Kapatralla, a prominent faction village in Kurnool district, was adopted by the police some time ago. It yielded results and faction groups were being weaned away from rivalries. They are now concentrating their energies on the regions development. Dharmavaram MLA, K Venkatrami Reddy, an engineering graduate, had entered politics after his father Sureedu was hacked by rivals at Tadipathri. His uncle K Pedda Reddy, sitting MLA from Tadipathri, who was also maintaining a distance from faction rivalry, said the family had suffered a lot with faction feud in the past, and we will not encourage anyone to continue with such a mindset. The faction feuds in the region had led to the introduction of land mines, TV bombs, car bombs, ice cream bombs and high-end weapons like Ak-47 along with the traditional hunting sickles and crude bombs in the past four decades after such rivalries took on a political colour. The political links were flimsy in a majority of the cases. Factionists developed themselves as constituency level leaders and were elected as MLAs and MPs in course of time. Records say that at least 2000 men from the Congress, TD and other parties had been killed in the last four decades in Rayalaseema region. Analysts say faction culture was majorly suppressed for a decade and such instances are confined to only a few areas now. The elders, mostly Reddys, Kammas and Boyas, woke up to the consequences of faction rivalry and succeeded in providing quality education to their children. Most of them completed engineering graduation and settled in the software industry in Bengaluru or Hyderabad during the past decade. The victims are voluntarily engaging in the spread of awareness against faction fued in the villages. We are conducting such campaigns at all faction-hit villages, stated Appireddy Harinath Reddy, writer. Four children from Tagarakunta Prabhakars faction-hit family from Kanganipalle, completed education and got employment as software engineers. They are away from such activities of the past.

All eyes on Kadapa

The high-profile constituency is set to witness a battle between cousins

All eyes on Kadapa - The Hindu

All eyes on Kadapa The Hindu

Raghu Rama Krishna Raju Files Nomination as TD Candidate

Kakinada: Telugu Desam high command has officially endorsed K. Raghu Rama Krishna Raju as the party's candidate for the Undi constituency by issuing the B.Form to him in a ceremony led by TD chief N. Chandrababu Naidu. This decision comes after resolving internal disputes and convincing the sitting MLA Manthena Rama Raju to withdraw from the race, ensuring full support for Raghu Rama Krishna Raju. Rama Krishna Raju, a former MP from Narsapuram, submitted his nomination following a grand procession that commenced from Peda Amiram village in Kalla mandal and concluded at the Undi mandal headquarter. The procession showcased the unity and support from the party cadres. In his address to the gathering, Raghu Rama Krishna Raju emphasised the significance of the upcoming elections, describing them as a contest between the courage of the Godavari people and the egoism of Kadapa. He confidently predicted that after the polling day on May 13, the current Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy would refrain from appearing in public, presumably due to unfavorable survey reports. Meanwhile, Manthena Rama Raju, the former candidate for the Undi constituency, has been appointed as the Telugu Desam West Godavari district president. This appointment follows the promotion of former Rajya Sabha member Thota Sitharamalakshmi to the politburo member of the party.

One Set of Nominations Filed on Behalf of YS Jagan from Pulivendula

Anantapur: Pulivendula municipal vice chairman Y.S. Manohar Reddy filed a set of nomination papers on behalf of the Chief Minister and YSRC chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy as a candidate from Pulivendula assembly segment on Monday. The nomination was filed at the Puilivendula tahsildar office in Kadapa district. Accompanied by Pulivendula municipal chairman Varaprasada Reddy and other leaders, YS Manohar Reddy submitted a set of nomination papers. He said the CM will file another set of nominations on April 25 after leading a big rally that day. Manohar Reddy said the CMs Memantha Siddam Bus Yatra covered 21 districts so far. Manohar Reddy said the people of Pulivendula were eager to elect Jagan Mohan Reddy as their MLA and see him as CM of the state again. D Ravi Shankar, candidate of Jai Bharath National Party, submitted his nomination papers for the Puilivendula assembly segment. Meanwhile, G Rameswar Reddy filed nomination papers as candidate of Pyramid Party of India from Pulivendula on Monday. Bellam Kumar filed his nomination papers as the candidate of the BSP in Pulivendula. Meanwhile, Dastagiri, who is an approver in the Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy murder case, alleged that the police were resisting his attempt to file nominations as Jai Bheem party candidate on April 25. The authorities directed him to file the papers on another day as CM Jagan Reddy will be filing the papers that day. He stressed that there was no such rule for a candidate vis-a-vis filing of the nomination papers.

Congress releases final list with 28 names for AP polls

Vijayawada: The AICC on Monday announced the final list of candidates for AP elections, with 38 names for the Assembly seats. AICC general secretary K.C. Venugopal said the central election committee finalised these names. Additionally, the AICC changed the party candidates in 10 Assembly constituencies. With this, so far the Congress nominated 142 candidates for the Assembly. The party is in a poll alliance with the CPI and CPM. Out of the total 175 Assembly constituencies, the CPI and CPM are contesting in 16 and the Congress the remaining seats. Srikakulam, Visakhapatnam North, Vijayawada East, Ongole, Kadapa, Srisailam and Hindupur seats are the prominent constituencies. The Congress replaced candidate Padi Nagabushan Rao with Ambati Krishna Rao for Srikakulam. For Gajapathinagaram, Dola Srinivas would replace the previous nominee Gadapu Kurminaidu. Maripi Vidyasagar has been named for Bobbili. The others are Nellimarla - Saragada Ramesh Kumar; Visakhapatnam North - Lakkaraju Rama Rao; Chodavaram - Jagath Srinivas; Elamanchili - Tar Narsing Rao; P Gannavaram (SC) - Kondeti Chittibabu, Achanta - Nekkanti Venkata Satyanarayana; Vijayawada East - Sunkara Padmasree and Jaggayyapet - Karnati Appa Rao. The Congress also chose Manichala Sushil Raja in place of Cilaka Vijay Kumar for the Tadikonda (SC) Assembly constituency. Other Congress candidates: Repalli - Mopidevi Srinivasa Rao; Tenali - Sk Basheer; Guntur West - Dr Rachakonda John Babu; Chirala - Amanchi Krishna Mohan; Ongole -Turakapalli Naga Lakshmi (who replaces Butti Ramesh Babu); Kanigiri - Devarapalli Subba Reddy (replaces Kadiri Bhavani); Kavali - Podalakuru Kalyan; Kovur - Narapareddy Kirankumar Reddy (replaces N. Mohan); Sarvepalli P.V. Srikanth Reddy (replaces Poola Chandrasekhar); Gudur (SC) - Dr U. Ramakrishna Rao (replaces Vemayya Chillakkuri); Sullurpet (SC) - Chandanamudi Shiva (replaces Gadi Tilak Babu); and Venkatagiri - Panta Srinivasulu. Kadapa - Tumman Kalyal Aszal Alikhan; Pulivendula - Mulam Reddy Dhruva Kumar Reddy; Jammalamadugu - Brahmananda Reddy Pamula; Proddutur-Shaik Poola Mohammed Nazeer; Mydukur - Gundlakunta Sriramulu; Allagadda - Baragodla Hussain; Srisailam - Asar Syed Ismail; Banaganapalle - Gutam Pullaiah; Dhone - Garlapati Madhuleti Swami; Adoni - Golla Ramesh; Aluru - Naveen Kishor Arakatla; Kalyandurg P. Rambhupal Reddy; Hindupur - Mohammad Hussain Inayathulla (replaces V. Nagaraju); and Dharmavaram - Rangana Aswardha Narayana.

Crorepati candidates galore in Telugu states

Hyderabad: The Telugu states are seeing a surge in crorepati candidates vying to contest as MPs in both states and MLAs in the AP state polls. The richest candidate among them, so far, is Chevella BJP Lok Sabha candidate Konda Vishweshwar Reddy, who declared worth Rs 4,566 crore approximately. According to his election affidavit, Vishweshwar Reddy's wife K. Sangita Reddy is richer than him. Incidentally, some candidates who filed their affidavits on Monday declared assets of less than Rs 3 crore. Vishweshwar Reddy did bachelor's in electrical engineering from University of Madras, at Guindy in Chennai and MS Electrical Engineering from NJIT, New Jersey, US. According to an affidavit submitted to the returning officer (RO) on Monday, Vishweshwar Reddy listed Rs 1,178.72 crore properties, and those of Sangita Reddy at Rs 3,203.90 crore. Their son K. Viraj Madhav Reddy has assets worth Rs 107 crore, the affidavit said. Vishweshwar Reddy also has liabilities worth Rs 12.06 crore. In Andhra Pradesh, Narayana Ponguru, a Telugu Desam candidate from Nellore, declared properties worth Rs 806 crore. While Narayana listed assets worth Rs 214 crore, he said his wife Ramadevi Ponguru had assets worth Rs 592 crore. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy filed nominations from Pulivendula of Kadapa district and listed properties of Rs 700 crore. While his properties are worth Rs 535 crore, his wife Bharathi Reddy possesses assets worth Rs 165 crore according to the affidavit. YSRC Visakhapatnam Lok Sabha candidate Botsa Jhansi Laksmi said she owned assets of Rs 22 crore, Rs 11 crore for herself and her husband Botsa Satyanarayana. Malkajgiri Congress Lok Sabha candidate Patnam Suneetha Reddy declared properties worth Rs 2 crore in her election affidavit. She has liabilities a Rs 2.50 crore. Suneetha Reddy said she had passed Class 10 in 1990. Warangal Congress party Lok Sabha candidate Dr Kadiam Kavya, completed her MD (Pathology) from Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad, in 2013. Dr Kavya declared assets worth Rs 2.47 crore.

In Rest, Jagan Finetunes YSRC Manifesto, More Promises Likely

Visakhapatnam: Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy gave a break to his Memantha Siddham bus yatra and held discussions with senior leaders on the partys election strategies and manifesto here on Monday. The CM spent the day at his campsite in Madhurawada giving finishing touches to the election manifesto that he might release on April 26 or April 27. He would file his nominations at Kadapa on April 25. Among those present were education minister Botsa Satyanarayana and regional coordinator Y.V. Subba Reddy. The other senior leaders interacted with him online and gave their inputs. The Chief Minister is aiming to add some more welfare schemes to the manifestos list of promises to the voters. These would be aimed at the lower segments of the society. One such promise is likely to be subsidised cooking gas cylinders apart from further streamlining of the health services. In the last elections, the Navaratnas figured in the manifesto and the YSRC government successfully implemented almost all of these promises in the last five years. In addition to these, some more promises that Jagan Mohan Reddy made as CM during his course of rule were also fulfilled, a senior leader said. The manifesto will address the basic requirements of the people, said regional coordinator and Rajya Sabha member Y.V. Subba Reddy. Talking to the media, Subba Reddy said the YSRC would seek votes based on the services and the welfare schemes delivered to the people so far. After the Memantha Siddham bus yatra, the final campaigning would be organised in North Andhra. The CM would address public meetings in 15 Assembly constituencies in this final phase of the campaigning, he said. On Tuesday, the Chief Minister would resume his bus yatra from the Cricket Stadium at Madhurawada and reach Anandapuram junction where he will hold a meeting with social media hands. He will move to Jonnada in Vizianagaram district passing Tagarapuvalasa and have his lunch at Jonnada. Jagan Mohan Reddy will address a public meeting at Chelluru village and pass through Chintalavalasa, Bhogapuram and Ranasthalam and reach Akkivalasa, where he would rest for the night.

APCC Chief YS Sharmila declares assets worth Rs 132.56 crore, owes Rs 82.58 crore to brother CM Jagan Mohan Reddy

Andhra Pradesh Congress Chief Y S Sharmila has declared Rs 168 crore in family assets in her election affidavit for the Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency. She owes over Rs 82 crore to her brother and Chief Minister, Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy, and Rs 19.56 lakh to her sister-in-law. Sharmila's husband, Anil Kumar, owes her nearly Rs 30 crore. She clarified that the loan from her brother is her rightful share in the family property.

APCC President Sharmila Declares Family Assets Worth Rs. 182 Cr, Refutes Accusations of Debt to CM Jagan

APCC President Sharmila Declares Family Assets Worth Rs. 182 Cr, Refutes Accusations of Debt to CM Jagan Andhra Pradesh PCC chief Y S Sharmila owes over Rs 82 crore to her Chief Minister brother Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy, according to her election affidavit in which she has declared that her family owns total assets worth Rs 168 crore. According to the election affidavit filed by Sharmila, the state Congress chief also owes Rs 19.56 lakh to her sister-in-law and Jagans wife Bharathi Reddy. Sharmila filed her nomination on April 20 as the candidate from Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency. It has been included that Jagan Mohan Reddy gave a loan to me. For the sake of clarification, in society any brother should give away his sisters share in the property, because that is her right. It is the responsibility of the brother. ''There are some people who will give a pittance (of the rightful share) to the sister and show it as a loan. All our family members know about it, she had told media people when asked about her affidavit. The affidavit says that she owns total assets worth nearly Rs 133 crore, and her husband Anil Kumar owns assets worth Rs 49 crore. Sharmilas husband Anil Kumar also owes nearly Rs 30 crore to his wife, according to the affidavit. The Congress leader has declared Rs 97 lakh as her income for the assessment year 2023-24.

Congress announces candidates for 28 more Assembly seats in Andhra Pradesh

Amaravati: The Congress on Monday announced the names of 28 more candidates for the upcoming Assembly polls in Andhra Pradesh and also replaced candidates in 10 constituencies declared earlier. The Central Election Committee of the party announced candidates for Srikakulam, Visakhapatnam North, Vijayawada East, Ongole, Kadapa, Srisailam, Hindupur among others. According to a press release Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

YSRC & TDP fight dissidence to win big in Kadapa

KADAPA: With elections fast approaching, campaigning has intensified in Kadapa district. However, it seems that the TDP has fallen behind in electioneering as the party leadership is busy pacifying disgruntled seniors, who are ready to quit over not being considered for contesting the elections. Following in their footsteps are the second-rung leaders, giving a new headache for the TDP high command. Though the TDP had issued press statements claiming that members of the YS family would join the party, there has been no such development so far. However, the YSRC has succeeded in poaching prominent leaders from the yellow party such as SV Satish Reddy, former deputy chairman of AP Legislative Council and rival of YS Rajasekhara Reddy, and former MLA R Ramesh Kumar Reddy. Additionally, second-rung leadership too has joined the ruling party. Talks are on with former Kamalapuram MLA G Veera Shiva Reddy and in all likelihood, he will be shifting to YSRC from TDP. In 2019, YSRC made a clean sweep as it emerged victorious in the Kadapa Parliamentary constituency and the seven Assembly segments Kadapa, Mydukur, Badvel, Proddatur, Kamalapuram, Pulivendula and Jammalamadugu. Incumbent MP and YSRCs candidate for Kadapa LS seat, YS Avinash Reddy, along with the Parliamentary coordinator K Suresh Babu, is pulling out all stops to ensure that there is no change in the status quo. On the other hand, TDP politburo member R Srinivasulu Reddy is the only visible leader across the district, while all others are limited to their respective constituencies. Six of YSRCs candidates for the seven Assembly constituencies are vying for a hat-trick win. They are: Party president and Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy (Pulivendula), Deputy Chief Minister SB Amzath Basha (Kadapa), S Raghurami Reddy (Mydukur), Dr Dasari Sudha (Badvel), Rachamallu Sivaprasad Reddy (Proddatur) and P Ravindranath Reddy (Kamalapuram). Congress is fielding Afzal Khan for the Kadapa Assembly seat. He was YSRC party secretary and joined the grand old party recently. Meanwhile, the TDP has fielded R Madhavi Reddy, wife of politburo member R Srinivasulu Reddy. Though the couple are actively campaigning, they are not getting adequate support from party leaders VS Amir Babu, who aspired for the ticket, and Lakshmi Reddy, who sought a ticket for his daughter-in-law Uma. Srinivasulu Reddy is reportedly not making much effort to pacify the miffed leaders. YSRCs Raghurami Reddy, though an elderly legislator, is actively canvassing in Mydukur. He is not getting the needed support from Mydukur municipal chairman M Chandra. Putta Sudhakar Yadhav, contesting for the third time on the TDP ticket is also making every effort to wrest the seat from the YSRC. He is focusing on wooing YSRC activists into the TDP fold. In Badvel, YSRCs Dr Sudha has support of former MLC DC Govinda Reddy and others. The NDA has fielded BJPs Bojja Roshanna, a close aide of TDP constituency in-charge K Vijayamma. Vijayamma and her son Ritesh Reddy are making every effort for Roshannas victory. YSRC candidate in Proddatur, Sivaprasad Reddy is not getting the support of MLC Ramesh Yadav. Hence, Rachamallu is making every effort to get the support of the Yadav community. However, dissidents in the YSRC like K Shiva Chandra Reddy and K Babu have joined the TDP. TDP candidate and veteran leader N Varadharajulu Reddy is facing a similar trouble as former MLA M Linga Reddy and constituency in-charge G Praveen Kumar Reddy are not supporting him. In Kamalapuram, YSRC has re-nominated P Ravindranath Reddy. TDP second-rung leader K Sainath Sharma joining the YSRC has given him much support. Former MLA G Veerashiva Reddy is peeved over the TDP top brass nominating Putta Chaitanya Reddy, son of Putta Narasimha Reddy. He is ready to switch over to the YSRC. In Pulivendula, the YSRC is making every effort to ensure that the majority with which Jagan wins is not less than 96,000, the margin of victory in the last election. Satish Reddys inclusion in YSRC is an added advantage. TDP candidate B Tech Ravi, however, is not getting the expected support from the MLC Bhumireddy Rambhupal Reddy. In Jammalamadugu, incumbent M Sudheer Reddy is making all efforts to retain it, but not getting the expected support from MLC P Ramasubba Reddy. On the other hand, BJP candidate C Adinarayana Reddy has limited himself to meetings with party workers. Six YSRC candidates vying for hat-trick win Six of YSRCs candidates for the seven Assembly seats are vying for a hat-trick win. They are: Party president and CM Jagan Mohan Reddy, Deputy CM SB Amzath Basha, S Raghurami Reddy, Dr Dasari Sudha, Rachamallu Sivaprasad Reddy and P Ravindranath Reddy

Heat Conditions in AP Continue Despite Rains

Visakhapatnam: Heat conditions are continuing in Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra Pradesh despite the light rains that lashed the state during the last 24 hours. Several locations in Rayalaseema recorded above 42C on Sunday, though many parts of the state had overcast skies but no significant rain. IMA Amaravati senior scientist Dr. S. Karuna Sagar said Kurnool and Tirupati stations recorded 42.6C, the highest temperature in the state, followed by Kadapa 42.5C, Jangamaheswarapuram 42.5C, Nandigama 42.4C, Nandyal 42.2C, Anantapur 42C, Nellore 41.7C, Gannavaram 41.6C and Amaravati 41C. People of Kurnool and a few other places in Rayalaseema experienced heatwave conditions on Sunday, while the remaining parts of the state remained hot and humid. From Monday to April 25, IMD has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds with a speed of 4050 kmph likely at isolated places over north coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam. Hot, humid, and uncomfortable weather conditions will prevail over coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema during the same period. Thundershowers accompanied by lightning lashed a few parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema region on Saturday night. People in Paderu of ASR district got relief from hot weather conditions after Paderu recorded one cm of rainfall.

Jagan Revitalising YSRC Through Siddham Yatra, Attracting Opposition Leaders

Vijayawada : Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy's Memantha Siddham Yatra has largely revitalised the YSRC party, as 150 leaders of various opposition parties and over 1,05,000 grassroots activists joined the ruling party at the Panchayat/Ward levels in the past 20 days. Jagan Reddy changed candidates in 85 seats in the present elections. Hence, speculations were rife about disappointed leaders leaving the party. Rather, things turned more in favour of the YSRC. Only a few leaders left the party while large bands of leaders and activists from other parties joined YSRC. Jagan Reddy has changed the pawns of election campaign dynamics by starting the bus yatra in the initial phase of the election campaign. YSRC leaders recalled that Telugu Desam founder NT Rama Rao had effectively used his Chaitanya Ratham for election campaigns and later Chandrababu Naidu conducted road shows by bus in select places. Telugu film hero and actor K Chiranjeevi also used a van in the election campaign, but only to address public meetings. For the first time, Jagan Reddy continuously used the bus for the election campaign and for the first time introduced Ramp Walk at the public meetings, which turned out to be a big attraction. A substantial influx of leaders and grassroots activists -- from ex-MLAs to mandal-level leaders to the YSRC was witnessed just days before the elections ever since the start of the Memantha Siddham yatra on March 27 from Idupulapaya in Kadapa district. In the past 20 days of the yatra, approximately 150 prominent leaders from TD, JanaSena, BJP and Congress have publicly declared their support for the YSRC in the presence of the CM. Additionally, 83 leaders had joined the party prior to the yatra, bringing the total number to 250. This significantly strengthened the party's grip not only in specific regions but throughout the state. Interestingly, over 105,000 grassroots activists at the Panchayat/Ward level have also joined the YSRC in the last 35 days, underscoring the party's expanding influence across the entire political spectrum. Political analysts say that Jagan Reddy changed candidates in 85 assembly and parliament seats for this election, which was likely to cause a tumult within YSRC. But Jagan Reddy effectively managed dissent. This shattered the hopes of the Opposition parties. Only a few leaders from the YSRC joined other parties. Minister Ambati Rambabu and other YSRC leaders said that a majority of people are supporting Jagan Reddy as the next CM. A majority of the pre-poll surveys have predicted a YSRC win in the elections. There was huge support from the masses to Jagan Reddys Memantha Siddham Yatra. This is prompting leaders from other political parties to join the YSRC, which would be an added advantage to Jagan Reddy in the present elections.

All set for Kalyanotsavam of Lord Kodandarama Swamy and Goddess Sitha

Anantapur: Elaborate arrangements were made for the Kalyanotsavam of Lord Kodandarama Swamy and Goddess Sitha at Vontimitta in Kadapa district, it being a state-sponsored event, on Monday. As part of the annual Srirama Navami Brahmotsavalu at Vontimitta, the celestial marriage of lord will be held in full moon light at night, unlike in other temples including at Bhadrachalam. Traffic will be diverted at Vontimitta and the High Way road. Only vehicles carrying the devotees would be allowed in on Monday. Kadapa SP Siddarth Kausal said traffic diversion will be effective from 6am till the completion of celestial marriage at night. Vehicles from Kadapa to Tirupati will be diverted from Alamkhanpalle Junction via Utukur Circle and Rayachoti towards Tirupati. Vehicles coming from Tirupati towards Kadapa will be diverted from Renigunta through Rayachoti, instead of Vontimitta road. Heavy vehicles from Rajampet will be diverted through Rayachoti and motorcycles route will be diverted via Salabad, Ibrahimpet and Madhavaram to avoid traffic problems at Vontimitta temple. The SP said a total of 15 parking places were set up in and around the Vontimitta temple premises for the use of devotees. About five special parking places were set up near Salabad while 10 plots were readied for parking in the places around the venue of Kalyanotsavam. TTD has been conducting the annual brahmotsavalu since 2015 -- after state bifurcation. Vontmitta was recognised as the official venue for the celestial marriage of Lord Srirama after Bhadrachalam was made a part of Telangana. As huge crowds are expected for the celestial marriage of the Lord, TTD and Kadapa district administration have made the necessary arrangements. TTD and state government officials will present traditional silk clothes and talambralu to the lord during the fete.

A ragpicker-turned-banker

VIJAYAWADA: Life was no bed of roses for Seelam Sandeep Kumar, who was abandoned by his parents at the age of six. What kept him going was his dream of some day working in the bank that he looked at every day while scavenging for food from a dustbin near a restaurant in Vijayawada. His mother, Parvathi was from Kadapa district. She married Sunil, a native of Kolkata. Sandeep was born in Mumbai and raised in Kolkata. However, his mother brought him back to Kadapa when he was just 3, due to harassment by her husband. Parvathi handed over a six-year-old Sandeep to her relatives and left without a word. Sandeep had faced abandonment, rejection and neglect at a very young age. His relatives refused to send him to school, citing financial constraints. He then resolved to earn money to pay for his education. He boarded a train to Tirupati, climbed the Alipiri steps, and ate prasadam distributed by other devotees for sustenance. Language was a challenge as Sandeep was fluent in both Marathi and Bengali and not Telugu. He earned money by selling coconuts at the Dwajasthambam in Tirumala. Unfortunately, it was stolen while he was asleep. After having starved for three days, a devotee offered him a free meal token for Anna Prasadams at the temple. He came to Vijayawada on learning that the Navajeevan Bala Bhavan in the city provided accommodation to orphans. He then began working at a hotel near the railway station. Sandeep found himself right back at square one after the person he entrusted his earnings with fled the orphanage. He then began working with labourers near Eluru canal. He had sustained injuries in a road accident and was admitted to a hospital for treatment. Following this, he joined an Orphan School in Pezzonipet with the help of Thomas Kaushy, founder of Navajeevan. He excelled in the Class X exams at RCM High School. During his free time, he swept train carriages and collected plastic as a ragpicker. Sometimes, he also had to beg to make ends meet. He was able to join Sarada College for intermediate education. Unfortunately, he failed the exams. While dealing with the curveballs life threw at him, Sandeep learnt how to dance. This helped him earn money as he began teaching dance. When a film director encouraged him to test his luck in the film industry, he went to Hyderabad and became an assistant to a dance master in Hyderabad. As Sandeep did not find any success even three years after working in the film industry, he returned to Vijayawada from Hyderabad. As he began settling down in life, he met Rajeswari and later married her, but not without facing challenges. Rajeswaris parents refused to get her married to an orphan. To prove that he was not an orphan, he searched for his mother across the country and luckily found her in Salem, Tamil Nadu. He thus gained the approval of Rajeswaris parents and married her. They are now parents of two children, Sahasra and Harshi. After getting married, he pursued an MBA through distance education while working part-time and gaining knowledge of the stock market. He secured a job at Kotak Bank (Securities wing) in Vijayawada. Reflecting on his journey, the 37-year-old reminisces, Now, as I gaze through the banks windows, I can see the spot near Sweet Magic where I once scavenged for discarded cakes In a bid to give back to the society, Sandeep, along with his friends from Navajeevan, formed a WhatsApp group titled Fruits from Navajeevan to support orphans like him. Sandeep told TNIE, We have mobilised funds to provide support to those facing challenges like we did. We are committed to ensuring that no child is deprived of education due to financial constraints.

Vivekananda Foundation: A beacon of hope for people in need

KADAPA: In a world often marred by self-interest, there are individuals like P Ramatulsi, who shine brightly with their dedication in serving humanity. The 30-year-old woman has become an integral part of society, embodying the ethos of love, dedication and service. Standing alongside the marginalised, Ramatulsi serves as a pillar of support through her involvement with the Vivekananda Foundation. Established by her husband, Papijenni Ramakrishna Reddy, in 2010, the foundation has been a beacon of hope for countless individuals in need. Despite her young age, Ramatulsis contributions to society are commendable. She devotes her time not only to conduct social service programmes, but also to organise motivational classes for female students. Recognising the importance of education, the foundation provides exam kits to Class X students, ensuring they have the necessary tools to excel academically. The journey of Ramatulsi and her husband, Ramakrishna Reddy, is one of sacrifice and unwavering commitment to serving humanity. Despite facing financial constraints, they have dedicated themselves to the noble cause of social service. Their efforts have touched the lives of thousands, providing educational support, career guidance, and essential resources to those in need. Their efforts have touched the lives of thousands, providing educational support, career guidance, and essential resources to those in need. In 2020, fuelled by their passion for service, Ramatulsi and Ramakrishna Reddy embarked on a new venture - the establishment of Vivekananda Ashram. Despite initial challenges and lack of financial support, they laid the foundation stone of the ashram with a pledge of gold ornaments, a testament to their resolve. Now, Vivekananda Ashram stands as a sanctuary for the elderly and vulnerable, offering love, care, and dignity to all who seek refuge within its walls. Her compassionate leadership ensures that residents are treated not as burdens but as cherished members of the community. For Ramatulsi, service is not just a duty but a way of life. Alongside her husband and two sons, she resides in the Ashram, dedicating herself wholeheartedly to the well-being of its residents. Despite the challenges they face, their commitment remains unwavering, driven by a deep desire to bring happiness and solace to those in need.

YS Sharmila & husband Anil Kumar own assets worth over Rs 181 crore

GUNTUR: Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) chief YS Sharmila on Saturday filed her nomination to contest from the Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency. She paid tributes to her father and former Chief Minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy at the YSR Ghat in Idupulapaya and held a roadshow in the constituency before filing her nomination. As per the affidavit filed with the Election Commission, her familys assets stand at Rs 181.81 crore, including moveable and offshore assets worth over Rs 168 crore, and immovable assets worth Rs 13.35 crore. Sharmila owns majority of the movable assets worth over Rs 132 crore, while her husband Anil Kumar owns assets worth Rs 49.24 crore. Of the total immovable assets, the couple have self-acquired assets worth Rs 5,76,58,365 and inherited assets worth Rs 7,58,92,180. Additionally, Sharmila and Anil own jewellery worth over Rs 95 lakh. While the APCC chief owns gold jewellery worth Rs 3,69,36,000 and gemstones worth Rs 4,61,90,688, her husband owns jewellery worth Rs 1,24,20,461. The couple also own shares worth Rs 1.52 crore in XS Hydro Energy Private Limited and Rs 1.54 crore in Bionutricia India Private Limited. The familys overall liabilities are Rs 1,18,58,90,981 from individuals and family members. Sharmila has taken a loan of Rs 82,58,15,000 from her brother and Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy and Rs 19,56,682 from her sister-in-law YS Bharathi. Of the total liabilities of Rs 35,81,19,299, Anil Kumar has taken a loan of Rs 29.99 crore from Sharmila and Rs 40 lakh from his mother-in-law YS Vijayamma. According to the affidavit, Sharmilas name appears in as many as eight FIRs pertaining to different cases. Meanwhile, Jana Senas candidate for Nellimarla Assembly constituency Naga Madhavi Lokam also filed her nomination papers on Saturday. With assets worth Rs 898.78 crore, she is one of the richest candidates from the State. Madhavi and her husband VNV Prasad Lokam own movable assets worth Rs 8,56,57,51,232. Of the total, her husband owns majority of the assets worth Rs 8,05,66,41,641. He owns a Ford Explorer, an automobile worth Rs 6.76 lakh, which was purchased in 2014. They also own majority of shares in Miracle Software Systems, Miracle Metals, Miracle Educations, and various other entities. They own immovable assets worth Rs 42,25,78,030. Madhavi has jewellery, including gold worth Rs 1,24,99,800, silver worth Rs 88,500 and diamonds worth Rs 34,40,135. The total liabilities of the couple stands at Rs 5,39,75,352. There are no pending criminal cases against her. Founder-president of Praja Shanti Party Anand Kilari, popularly known as KA Paul, filed his nomination for Viskahpatnam Parliamentary constituency. He owns assets worth Rs 1,72,739. Paul has Rs 49,000 cash in hand and Rs 1,23,739 (Rs 70,000 + Rs 53,739) deposited in two separate bank accounts. Apart from this, all other details including income, moveable assets, immovable assets and liabilities have been mentioned as not applicable.

264 Nominations Filed on Day-3 in AP

Vijayawada : On the third day of filing nominations, 264 candidates submitted 303 sets of nominations for both Parliamentary and Assembly constituencies across the state on Saturday. Regarding Parliamentary constituencies, 37 contestants filed 40 sets of nominations. Additionally, 227 contestants submitted 263 sets of nominations to contest Assembly constituencies. Some prominent individuals who filed nominations today to contest from Parliamentary Constituencies include Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy representing YSRC from Ongole and Y.S. Sharmila Reddy representing INC from Kadapa. Those from Assembly Constituencies include Botsa Satyanarayana representing YSRC from Cheepurupalli, Vallabhaneni Vamsi Mohan representing YSRC from Gannavaram, Bonda Umamaheswara Rao representing TD from Vijayawada Central, and Vidadala Rajani representing YSRC from Guntur West.

APCC chief files nomination at Kadapa parliament, urges voters to back her - The Times of India

APCC chief files nomination at Kadapa parliament, urges voters to back her The Times of India

YS Sharmila Files Nomination from Kadapa Lok Sabha Seat

Guntur: YS Sharmila, the Andhra Pradesh Congress chief and the party's candidate, filed her nomination from the Kadapa seat on Saturday. Earlier this year, Sharmila joined the Congress and merged her party, the YSR Telangana Party, into the Congress. Before filing her nomination papers, she held a roadshow in the constituency. The Kadapa Constituency will vote in the fourth phase of the Lok Sabha election on May 13. The Kadapa seat comprises seven Assembly segments: Badvel, Kadapa, Pulivendla, Kamalapuram, Jammalamadugu, Proddatur, and Mydukur. Currently, the Kadapa seat is represented by YS Sharmila's cousin, Avinash Reddy. In the 2019 election, Y.S. Avinash Reddy of the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party received 7,83,499 votes. Chadipirala Adi Narayana Reddy from the TDP got 4,02,773 votes, while Gundlakunta Sreeramulu from the Congress received 8,341 votes. The Assembly and Lok Sabha elections in Andhra Pradesh will be simultaneously held on May 13, with the counting of votes scheduled for June 4. Andhra Pradesh has 175 Assembly seats and 25 Lok Sabha seats. In the 2019 Assembly elections, the YSRCP won with a majority of 151 seats, while the TDP secured 23 seats. In the Lok Sabha polls, the YSRCP won 22 seats, while the TDP managed to secure only three seats. Delhi Weather Update: Scorching Heat Continues, Relief Expected Soon Low Voter Turnout Worries NDA Leaders in Bihar Female YouTuber Dies After Jumping from Second Floor of PG Accommodation in Delhi

Bus Carrying Policemen Returning from Chhindwara Election Duty Overturns in Madhya Pradesh, 21 injured

Rajgarh: Yesterday, at around 4:15 am, a bus carrying policemen who had completed election duty in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, was involved in a collision near Neem Pani Dhaba. The bus, en route to Rajgarh via Betul, overturned after colliding with a truck, resulting in injuries to 21 individuals. Out of the 21 injured policemen, 12 were admitted to Shahpur Community Health Centre, while the remaining nine were taken to Betul District Hospital for further treatment. Upon receiving information about the accident, police officials, including the Betul Superintendent of Police and Additional Superintendent of Police, immediately reached the accident site to oversee the rescue operations. Authorities from Betul Kotwali police station and Ganj police station, along with other police personnel, also rushed to Betul District Hospital to ensure that the injured received prompt medical attention. The accident occurred following the conclusion of polling for the six parliamentary seats in Madhya PradeshSidhi, Shahdol, Jabalpur, Mandla, Balaghat, and Chhindwarawhich took place on Friday. YS Sharmila Files Nomination from Kadapa Lok Sabha Seat BJP's Victory in Rajya Sabha Elections Challenged in Himachal Pradesh High Court Delhi Weather Update: Scorching Heat Continues, Relief Expected Soon

CBI Team Probes Alleged Crimes Against Women and Land Grabbing in Sandeshkhali, West Bengal

Kolkata: A Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) team visited Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal on Saturday to investigate alleged crimes against women and cases of land grabbing. The team individually spoke with the alleged victims, documenting their allegations. The investigation comes after the Calcutta High Court ordered the CBI to probe allegations of crimes against women and land grabbing in Sandeshkhali. The High Court directed the central investigating agency to create a dedicated portal/email ID for lodging complaints to ensure confidentiality. In compliance with the High Court's order, the CBI established a dedicated email ID, sandeshkhali@cbi.gov.in, to receive complaints. Additionally, the agency received several complaints on its dedicated email ID. A 10-member CBI team visited Sandeshkhali, with one group visiting the houses of victims in the Sundarikhali area and documenting their allegations individually. Another group of the team visited Sandeshkhali Police Station and spoke with local policemen regarding the investigation. An official stated, We are in Sandeshkhali to speak to villagers in connection with crimes against women and land-grabbing. We are noting down their allegations. The High Court's order came in response to a batch of pleas, including a suo motu case initiated by the High Court based on media reports of alleged incidents of sexual assault and land grabbing in Sandeshkhali. Numerous women in Sandeshkhali alleged that they were sexually assaulted and their lands were grabbed by suspended Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Shahjahan Sheikh and his supporters. Sheikh, who was on the run for over 50 days, was arrested by the West Bengal Police amidst allegations of crimes against women and land grabbing. The High Court clarified that any agencyWest Bengal Police, CBI, and Enforcement Directorate (ED)had the authority to arrest him. Sheikh had been evading arrest after a mob attacked ED officials in Sandeshkhali on January 5 while they were conducting a search of Sheikhs premises in connection with an alleged ration distribution scam case in West Bengal. Bus Carrying Policemen Returning from Chhindwara Election Duty Overturns in Madhya Pradesh, 21 injured YS Sharmila Files Nomination from Kadapa Lok Sabha Seat BJP's Victory in Rajya Sabha Elections Challenged in Himachal Pradesh High Court

Massive Fire Engulfs Warehouse in Ghaziabad's Khoda Area

Lucknow: A massive fire broke out at a warehouse in the Khoda area of Ghaziabad on Saturday morning, creating panic among the locals. Upon receiving the information, multiple teams of the fire brigade rushed to the spot to control the flames. Chief Fire Officer Rahul Pal stated that the firefighting operations are currently underway, and fortunately, no casualties have been reported so far. We received information about a fire at a godown in Khoda Colony this morning. Immediately, three fire brigade teams from Vaishali fire station, two from Sahibabad station, and three from Kotwali station were rushed to the spot. Additionally, a fire brigade team from Noida Sector 58 station was called in to assist in the firefighting operation. Efforts to douse the fire are underway, CFO Pal said. Further details about the incident are awaited as the firefighting operation continues. CBI Team Probes Alleged Crimes Against Women and Land Grabbing in Sandeshkhali, West Bengal Bus Carrying Policemen Returning from Chhindwara Election Duty Overturns in Madhya Pradesh, 21 injured YS Sharmila Files Nomination from Kadapa Lok Sabha Seat

YS Sharmila Owes Jagan Rs 82 Crore, As Per Affidavit

Hyderabad: Andhra Pradesh Congress unit president YS Sharmila owes CM Jagan Mohan Reddy Rs. 82.5 crore as revealed in her election affidavit. YS Sharmila, in her affidavit declared her family's total assets worth Rs. 182 crore. The Congress candidate from Kadapa also owes YS Bharathi Reddy, CM Jagan's wife Rs 19.5 lakh, as stated in the affidavit. While, YS Sharmila's husband, Anil, owes Rs 40 crore to Sharmila. The Congress chief filed her nomination from Kadapa earlier today. Sitting MP and her main challenger YSRCP's Avinash Reddy also filed his nomination yesterday. Both the candidates are hopeful and confident of their victory in the constituency.

YS Sharmila owns Rs. 82 crore to CM Jagan

Hyderabad: Andhra Pradesh Congress unit president YS Sharmila owes CM Jagan Mohan Reddy Rs. 82.5 crore as revealed in her election affidavit. YS Sharmila, in her affidavit declared her family's total assets worth Rs. 182 crore. The Congress candidate from Kadapa also owes YS Bharathi Reddy, CM Jagan's wife Rs 19.5 lakh, as stated in the affidavit. While, YS Sharmila's husband, Anil, owes Rs 40 crore to Sharmila. The Congress chief filed her nomination from Kadapa earlier today. Sitting MP and her main challenger YSRCP's Avinash Reddy also filed his nomination yesterday. Both the candidates are hopeful and confident of their victory in the constituency.

Lok Sabha polls: Andhra Pradesh Congress chief YS Sharmila files nomination from Kadapa - The Economic Times

Lok Sabha polls: Andhra Pradesh Congress chief YS Sharmila files nomination from Kadapa The Economic Times

Lok Sabha polls: Andhra Pradesh Congress chief YS Sharmila files nomination from Kadapa

YS Sharmila filed Kadapa nomination, merging YSR Telangana Party. Held roadshow. Kadapa votes on May 13. Seat held by Avinash Reddy. TDP candidate received votes in 2019 election.

Lok Sabha polls: YS Sharmila files nomination from Kadapa seat in Andhra Pradesh

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AP Congress chief Sharmila files nomination from Kadapa

Andhra Pradesh Congress President Y S Sharmila on Saturday filed her nomination for the Kadapa Lok Sabha seat. Sharmila was accompanied by Sunitha Narreddy, her cousin and daughter of Y S Vivekananda Reddy, who was murdered in the run-up to the 2019 polls. Filed the nomination as Kadapa MP candidate. Kadapa people did not forget Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

AP: Avinash Reddy shares Vivekananda murder case details in affidavit

Amaravati: YSR Congress Partys candidate for Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency Y. S. Avinash Reddy has two criminal cases against him including the case relating to the murder of his uncle and former minister Y. S. Vivekananda Reddy. Avinash Reddy, who filed his nomination as YSRCP candidate for the May 13 election, revealed the details of Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Andhra Congress Chief YS Sharmila Files Nomination For Kadapa Seat - NDTV

Andhra Congress Chief YS Sharmila Files Nomination For Kadapa Seat NDTV

Andhra Congress Chief YS Sharmila Files Nomination For Kadapa Seat

Andhra Pradesh Congress President Y S Sharmila on Saturday filed her nomination for the Kadapa Lok Sabha seat.

TDP MLA Balayya files nomination from Hindupur

Anantapur: Aiming for a hat-trick win from Hindupur constituency, film star and sitting MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna of Telugu Desam filed his nomination from the Hindupur Assembly segment on Friday. Balakrishna is aiming for a victory for the third consecutive time from Hindupur, a home turf of TD founder and late Chief Minister N.T. Rama Rao's family since 1985. Before filing his nomination, Balakrishna offered pooja at the historic Lord Hanuman temple at Sugur, on the outskirts of the Hindupur town. Accompanied by Hindupur Lok Sabha TD candidate B.K. Parthasarathi, he then proceeded to tahasildar office with a huge rally. Party leaders and cadres from Hindupur area gathered in large numbers. Meanwhile, a total of 18 nominations were received in seven Assembly segments of Satya Sai district on Friday. Madakasira TD candidate Sunil Kumar, Kadiri YSRC candidate Maqbul, TD candidate Kandikunta Prasad, Rapthadu YSRC candidate T Prakash Reddy and others filed their nominations. In Kadapa district, sitting MP YS Avinash Reddy filed his nomination papers for Kadapa Lok Sabha segment at Kadapa collectorate on Friday. A total of 14 nominations received from Kadapa district.

Avinashs performance as an MP lacklustre: Chadipiralla Bhupesh Subbarami Reddy

Chadipiralla Bhupesh Subbarami Reddy has emerged as a vocal critic of Kadapa MP YS Avinash Reddy, terming his performance lacklustre. Named as the TDP nominee for Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency, he asserts that the YS familys prolonged reign has yielded scant development in Kadapa district. In an interview with SNagaraja Rao, Ch Bhupesh Subbarami Reddy promises to bring about a meaningful change in the district, if elected What kind of response you are getting from people in the election campaign? We have noticed a significant anti-incumbency against the YSRC during our campaign, particularly concerning unfulfilled promises of the YS Jagan Mohan Reddy government and rising prices of essential commodities. Our Super Six Manifesto has garnered tremendous support, indicating voter dissatisfaction with the ruling partys poor performance. We are confident that voters will rally behind us and ensure our victory in the elections. The YSRC claims to have directly deposited crores of Rupees into beneficiaries bank accounts under welfare schemes, and describes them as its star campaigners. How do you respond to its assertion? The ruling partys welfare schemes are marred by allegations of financial exploitation, offering minimal relief compared to the economic burden placed on people through increased prices and taxes. People are disenchanted with the YSRC governments performance and ready to voice their discontent in the polls. What is your main criticism of the sitting YSRC MP? I believe that Avinash Reddy and the ruling YSRC have failed the district on multiple fronts. They have not fulfilled promises related to industrial development, such as establishing a steel plant and constructing the Kadapa-Bangalore railway line. This neglect is a betrayal of the peoples trust, especially considering the YS familys longstanding dominance in the region. How do you compete with the two-time MP? Avinash Reddys tenure as an MP has been lacklustre with minimal development initiatives in the district. Voters are disillusioned with his poor performance, providing us with an opportunity to secure their support. Our focus on addressing key issues and delivering on promises will resonate with voters and ensure our victory. What are your priorities for the growth of Kadapa? I will prioritise execution of infrastructure projects such as the Kadapa steel plant and the Kadapa-Bangalore railway line. The district has immense potential for industrial growth, and I want to harness it by attracting huge investments and promoting job creation. Additionally, Ill prioritise supporting farmers and unemployed youth through various initiatives aimed at enhancing their livelihood. In Kadapa, there is significant Muslim population. Will TDPs pact with BJP have any negative impact? Our alliance with the NDA has been historically successful and will not jeopardise our chances of victory. Weve consistently worked to address the needs of all communities, including Muslims, through various development initiatives. Under the leadership of TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu, well ensure that interests of all the people are better safeguarded.

Six Sons, Two Daughters of Ex-CMs in AP Election Fray

Vijayawada: The sons of at least six former chief ministers of Andhra Pradesh are in the 2024 election fray for the Assembly and Lok Sabha fights this time. Daughters of two former CMs are also testing their luck. Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy is in the fray from Pulivendula, continuing the legacy of his father Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy. Jagans sister Y.S. Sharmila is contesting the Kadapa Parliament seat on a Congress ticket. Former chief minister N.T. Rama Raos daughter Daggubati Purandeswari as BJP state president is contesting from Rajamahendravaram. NTRs son Balakrishna is in the fray for the Hindupur Assembly seat. Ex-CM, Chandrababu Naidus son Nara Lokesh is in the Assembly fray in Mangalagiri. Former CM Nadendla Bhaskar Raos son Nadendla Manohar is fighting the Assembly poll from Tenali on a Jana Sena ticket. Ex-CM Kotla Vijayabhaskar Reddys son Kotla Jayasurya Prakash Reddy will be contesting the Assembly poll from Dhone constituency. Former CM N. Janardhan Reddys son N. Ramkumar Reddy will be testing his political fortunes from the Venkatagiri Assembly constituency on the YSRC ticket. Political heirs like former MLA Kurugundla Ramakrishna's daughter Lakshmipriya is in the fray in Venkatagiri. Vijayashree, daughter of former minister Nelawala Subrahmanyam, is testing her luck on behalf of TD in Sullurpet. Former minister Palle Raghunath Reddy's daughter-in-law Palle Sindhura is TD nominee for Puttaparthi. Ex- MLA Shilpa Mohan Reddy's son Shilpa Ravi is contesting on behalf of the YSRC in Nandyala. Ex-minister Bhuma Nagi Reddy's daughter Bhuma Akhilapriya is contesting the polls in Allagadda.

Dynasties: Children of Senior Politicians Testing Luck in AP Elections

Vijayawada: More than 30 political heirs are testing their fortunes in the 2024 polls under the banner of various parties in Andhra Pradesh. Leading the pack are Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, Nara Lokesh and Daggubati Purandeswari. They span parties like the YSRC, Telugu Desam, Congress, Jana Sena and BJP. Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy continuing the legacy of his father Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy, his uncle Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy and his mother Y.S. Vijayalakshmi who won the Pulivendula MLA seat, is contesting from Pulivendula for the third time. TD chief Chandrababu's son Nara Lokesh entered the ring once again in Mangalagiri of Guntur district. Lokesh lost to YSRC candidate Alla Ramakrishna Reddy in the last election. Political heiress Murugudu Lavanya, daughter of former MLA Kandru Kamala and daughter-in-law of former MLA Murugudu Hanumantha Rao, is contesting the polls on behalf of YSRC against Lokesh. Sirisha, daughter of former MLA Gauthu Shyamsundara Shivaji, is contesting under the TD banner from Palasa in Srikakulam district. In Rajam, former TD MLA Tale Bhadraiah's son Dr Rajesh is making his political debut on behalf of YSRC. Former Union Minister Pusapati Ashok Gajapathiraju's daughter Aditi is contesting on behalf of TD in Vizianagaram, which was earlier won by Ashok twice and one time by Vijayarama Gajapathi. JC Asmit Reddy, son of former MLA JC Prabhakar Reddy, is contesting on behalf of TD in Tadipatri of Anantapur district, a seat that was won by Prabhakar Reddy one time and JC Diwakar Reddy six times. Tenali has two political successors in the ring. Former chief minister Nadendla Bhaskara Rao's son Nadendla Manohar is contesting on behalf of the Jana Sena. Annabatuni Sivakumar, son of former minister Annabatuni Satyanarayana, is contesting for the YSRC. Manohar won the Tenali seat twice and his father Bhaskar Rao one time. Similarly, Siva Kumar won the seat in the 2019 elections and his father Satyanarayana won this seat two times. Two-times Guntur East MLA Md Mustafa has pressed his daughter Noori Fathima into the poll fray. Putta Pratap Reddy, son of former MLA Putta Narasimha Reddy is contesting the elections from Kamalapuram, Kadapa district. Ravindranath Reddy, uncle of chief minister Jagan Reddy, is contesting here on behalf of YSRC. In Pedana of Krishna district, former minister Kagita Venkata Rao's son Krishnaprasad is contesting as TD nominee. Uppala Ramu, son of YSRC's late senior leader Uppala Ram Prasad, is in the fray on behalf of YSRC. In Machilipatnam, MLA Perni Nani's son Perni Kittu is contesting on behalf of the YSRC, while ex-minister Nadakuditi Narasimha Rao's son-in-law and ex-minister Kollu Ravindra is contesting from TD. Varla Kumar Raja, son of TD senior leader Varla Ramaiah, is contesting the Pamarru MLA seat. Yanamala Ramakrishnadu's daughter Yanamala Divya is contesting in Tuni on a TD ticket in the Eluru parliamentary constituency. Minister Karumuri Nageswara Raos son Sunil is contesting the polls from the YSRC and TD leader Putta Sudhakar Yadav's son Putta Mahesh is in Eluru LS fray. Sudhakar Yadav is contesting from Maidukuru. In Kurnool, former MP TG Venkatesh's son TG Bharat is the TD nominee. Former deputy CM KE Krishnamurthy's son KE Shyambabu is contesting from TD in Pattikonda. Former MP Mekapati Rajamohan Reddy's son Mekapati Vikram Reddy is contesting from YSRC in Atmakur. Bojjala Sudhir Reddy, son of former minister Bojjala Gopalakrishna Reddy, is in the fray in Srikalahasti. Mohit Reddy, son of current YSRC MLA Chevireddy Bhaskara Reddy, is in the field in Chandragiri. In Tirupati, Bhumana Abhinay Reddy, son of current MLA Bhumana Karunakar Reddy, is fighting the polls.

Lok Sabha Polls: 20 File Nominations in Kadapa and Anantapur

Anantapur: At least 20 nominations were filed by candidates of political parties in Kadapa and Anantapur districts on the first day on Thursday. Among them, Kadapa Lok Sabha candidates of the YSRC, Mithun Reddy, TD candidate C Bhupesh Reddy, Jammalamadugu BJP candidate Adinarayana Reddy, Mydukur YSRC candidate Raghurami Reddy, Uravakonda TD candidate Payyavula Kesav, Anantapur urban YSRC candidate Ananta Venkatrami Reddy and several independents and other parties filed their nominations on Thursday. As candidates felt this was an auspicious day, a majority of them filed their nominations though their spouses and family members and they are planning to file another set of nominations alongside a huge rally on other days. Sources said the first nomination was filed in the state in the name of Uravakonda assembly TD candidate Payyavula Kesav by his wife at the Tahasildar office of Uravakonda in the district.

Viveka case: Oppn told not to comment against Jagan

KADAPA: The Kadapa district principal district court on Thursday issued interim orders restraining AP Congress Committee president YS Sharmila, her cousin Narreddy Suneetha, TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu, JSP chief Pawan Kalyan, and others from making defamatory comments against Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy and YSRC Kadapa MP candidate YS Avinash Reddy in regard to the assassination of former minister YS Vivekananda Reddy five years ago. The court directed the respondents to refrain from calling Avinash Reddy the murderer of his uncle Vivekananda Reddy and also that Jagan is shielding him. The YSRC had its Kadapa district president K Suresh Babu file a petition before the principal district judge, seeking orders from the court to restrain the respondents from making insinuations against Jagan and Avinash with respect to Vivekas murder. Besides Sharmila, Suneetha and Naidu, TDP national general secretary Nara Lokesh, BJP State chief Daggubati Purandeswari, JSP chief Pawan Kalyan and TDP leader M Ravindranath Reddy were also made respondents. The petitioner said that the Viveka murder case was handed over to the CBI and Avinash Reddy was enlarged on bail in the case. Respondents told to remove objectionable comments The case is pending before the CBI court, Nampally in Telangana. Suresh Babu argued that the respondents during their election campaign, made scurrilous, false and defamatory allegations against Jagan and Avinash Reddy in public, and they were published in print, electronic and social media platforms. Directing the respondents to refrain from making derogatory remarks against Jagan and Avinash Reddy, the court asked the respondents and their supporters to remove all the objectionable comments previously made against the YSRC, its president Jagan Mohan Reddy and Avinash Reddy on print, electronic and various social media platforms with immediate effect. The court also directed the respondents to refrain their party cadres and their contesting candidates from making any personal attacks and criticise rivals based on unverified allegation or distortions or regarding pending cases in the competent court of law. The court also directed the respondents to maintain decent levels in public discourse, strictly adhere to the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) in force now in view of the general elections and focus on their own party agenda. They could, however, criticise the failures of other parties, if any. The case was posted for further hearing on April 30.

Andhra Pradesh: 39 MP, 190 MLA nominees file papers

VIJAYAWADA: The election process has begun in the State with contestants of the major parties filing their nominations amid massive rallies. Prominent among those who filed their nominations on Thursday, are NDAs Y Sujana Chowdary, and Kadapa MP candidate Bhupesh Reddy of TDP, YSRC candidate for Hindupur Joladarashi Shantha, Rajampet YSRC candidate PV Midhun Reddy, TDP Lok Sabha candidate for Narasaraopet Lavu Srikrishna Devarayulu. On behalf of TDP general secretary Nara Lokesh, TDP, BJP and JSP leaders submitted nomination papers at the municipal corporation office in Mangalagiri. In Nellore, YSRC candidate Nallapareddy Prasanna Kumar Reddy and TDP contender Vemireddy Prashanthi Reddy filed their nominations for Kovur Assembly segment. YSRC candidate Ramireddy Pratap Kumar Reddy filed his nomination in Kavali and Kotamreddy Sridhar Reddy of TDP in Nellore rural segment. TDP Chittoor parliamentary segment candidate D Prasad Rao, Challa Ramachandra Reddy of TDP for Punganur filed their nominations. G Bhanu Prakash filed his papers in Nagari, MC Vijayananda Reddy of YSRC and GC Jagan Mohan of TDP filed their nominations for Chittoor Assembly seat. According to the Election Commission, on day one of filing nominations, a total of 39 nominations were filed for parliamentary constituencies, and 190 for Assembly segments. Later in the day, addressing a press conference, Chief Electoral Officer Mukesh Kumar Meena said the gazette notification for both Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections was issued on Thursday, which also marks the commencement of receiving nominations. As per the election commission guidelines, nominations will be received from 11 am to 3 pm at the prescribed place in the prescribed format. Scrutiny of nominations will be done on April 26, and the last date for withdrawal of nominations is April 29. After that, the final list of candidates will be released and a ballot paper will be prepared. Election will be held on May 13 and results will be out on June 4, he explained. The CEO said the timings of the polling for all the Assembly segments except six in Araku parliamentary constituency will be held from 7 am to 6 pm. Polling will be held for Araku, Paderu and Rampachodavaram from 7 am to 4 pm and for Palakonda, Kurupam and Saluru from 7 am to 5 pm. The maximum limit of election expenditure by a candidate for a parliamentary constituency is `95 lakh and for an Assembly segment `40 lakh. The Election Commission has appointed a general observer, a police observer, and an expenditure observer for the State as special observers. Besides them, there will be 50 general observers, 18 police observers, 25 expenditure observers for parliamentary constituencies, and 50 expenditure observers for Assembly seats, he added. On voting from home, he said, according to the newly amended Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961, optional facility of postal ballot will be provided to persons who are employed in essential services, senior citizens (above 85 years of age), and Persons with Disability. Before that from April 18 to 22, consent of these voters for the home voting facility will be taken. Only for those who gave their consent, this facility will be provided. They will be referred to as absentee voters. There are 2.12 lakh 85-year and above-aged voters and 5.30 lakh PWD voters in the State, the CEO added.

Kadapa youth leaves high-paying job, cracks UPSC

KADAPA: Kadapa youth has accomplished a remarkable feat by securing 475th rank in the UPSC Civil Services Examination. G Hariprasad Raju, a resident of Balaji Nagar in the district, despite holding a lucrative job with an annual salary of Rs 50 lakh at Microsoft, he chose to pursue his dream of serving the nation through civil services. The journey of Hariprasad, son of G Venkata Subbamma and K Nagendra Varma, began with his early education at Nagarjuna High School, Kadapa city, followed by Rabindra Bharati High School, where he excelled academically. Through a merit scholarship, he completed his intermediate at Bhashyam Institution. Hariprasad Raju further pursued Computer Science and Engineering at IIT Kharagpur, where he distinguished himself. Despite the allure of a high-paying job, Hariprasad Raju remained steadfast in his goal of achieving civil services. In his first attempt, he narrowly missed the mark but was concurrently selected for the position of Customs Officer by the Staff Selection Commission. Undeterred, he continued his pursuit and ultimately secured the 475th rank in the UPSC Examination.

No mention of YS Viveka case during campaign: Kadapa court tells parties

ANANTAPUR : A Kadapa district court on Thursday issued ad-interim injunction and instructed leaders of the Opposition not to make any mention of the Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy murder case now with the CBI court during the ongoing election campaign. This followed a petition by YSRC Kadapa district president K. Suresh Babu. The Opposition parties including APCC chief Y.S. Sharmila and Vivekananda Reddys daughter Dr Suneetha Nareddy along with TD, JS and BJP leaders were blaming and defaming Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and Kadapa MP Y.S. Avinash Reddy, by citing this case, the petitioner complained. Kadapa Principal District Judge G. Sreedevi issued the ad-interim injunction orders. The YSRC leader, in his petition, mentioned seven persons N. Chandrababu Naidu and Nara Lokesh of the TD, Pawan Kalyan of the Jana Sena, APCC chief Y.S. Sharmila, Vivekananda Reddys daughter Dr Narreddy Suneetha, BJP state chief D. Purandeswari and Pulivendula TD candidate Ravindranath Reddy (B. Tech Ravi) who were accusing even the CM though he was in no way connected to the case. The court emphasised that such accusations were prejudicial to the ongoing legal proceedings and violated the fundamental principles of justice. The court's decision followed an analysis of the documents filed by the petitioners/plaintiffs, particularly videos and newspaper cuttings from social media platforms, print and electronic media. It was observed unsubstantiated claims were being made on Avinash Reddy's alleged involvement in the murder of his uncle Vivekananda Reddy, and there were accusations of the Chief Minister shielding him. This court is of considered opinion that when a case is pending before a competent court for adjudication, no one is entitled to step into the shoes of the court with no authorisation and give their verdict and term any of the persons so involved in such case as murderer/guilty person according to their whims and fancies. the court stated. The court highlighted concerns regarding the interference of political parties and media in legal matters, stating that they have assumed the role of a 'public court' (janata adalat), thereby jeopardising the presumption of innocence until proven guilty and the principle of 'guilt beyond reasonable doubt'. The court warned against the dangers of media trials and underscored the importance of upholding the integrity of the justice system. As the Vivekananda Reddy murder case is pending before the CBI court in Nampally, the Kadapa district court restrained any propagation labelling Avinash Reddy as the murderer of his uncle and any assertions regarding Jagan Mohan Reddy shielding him through any medium, including print, electronic, and social media platforms. The respondents/defendants were directed to remove objectionable remarks made against the YSRC, Jagan Mohan Reddy and Avinash Reddy from electronic and social media platforms immediately. They were also instructed to refrain from personal attacks or criticisms based on allegations or distortions regarding pending cases in competent courts of law, adhering strictly to the prevailing Election Code of Conduct in AP as issued by the Election Commission. This ad-interim injunction will remain in force until April 30.

Madhavi Reddy hopes to become the first non-minority MLA in Kadapa after three decades

TDP last won the seat two decades back

Viveka muder case: Kadapa court refrains political parties from making derogatory comments against Jagan and Avinash - Deccan Herald

Viveka muder case: Kadapa court refrains political parties from making derogatory comments against Jagan and Avinash Deccan Herald

11-day Vontimitta Rama Navami Brahmotsavams commences

TIRUPATI: The annual Sri Rama Navami Brahmotsavams commenced on a grand note at Sri Kodanda Ramalayam in Vontimitta with Dwajarohanam on Wednesday. In Vontimitta, the entire temple premises reverberated with rhythmic Vedic mantras from the Pancharatra Agama. The Garuda flag was hoisted on the temple pillar in the auspicious Mithuna Lagnam amidst holy chanting. Each deity, including Asta Dikpalakas, Vishwaksena, and Panchabhutas, was appeased and invited to take part in the mega-religious event by rendering a specific raga and tala. Various talams like Akhya talam, Varuna talam, Eka talam, Adi talam, Jampala talam, Bhringini talam, Rupaka talam, Gamdharva talam, and Nandi talam, besides ragas like Anandavardhana Ragam, Suruti Ragam, Nadanamakriya, and others, were played melodiously on Nadaswaram. Speaking on the occasion, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Joint Executive Officer (JEO) Veerabrahmam said the annual utsavams commenced with grandeur and the celestial Sita Rama Kalyanam will be held on April 22 between 6.30 pm and 8.30 pm. The TTD continuously served delicious Annaprasadams to thousands of visiting devotees during the Brahmotsavams. Drinking water and buttermilk were continuously provided to the devotees who came for darshan. The TTD also erected German sheds and arranged coolers at the temple premises for the devotees comfort. Breakfast is served at 7 am every day, and from 6.30 to 7 pm, rice, sambar, rasam, buttermilk, green tea, curry, and sweet pongal are offered. TTD has deployed around 50 Annaprasadam department staff to cater to the devotees needs by preparing delicious delicacies. On the other hand, the Sri Rama Navami festival was observed with celestial fervor at the Sri Kodanda Rama Swamy temple in Tirupati. processional deities decked up for 11-day Rama Navami Brahmotsavams at Sri Kodanda Ramalayam in Vontimitta Snapana Tirumanjanam was also observed for the deities of Sri Sita Rama Lakshmana and Hanumantha in the morning. In the evening, Asthanam was performed, during which Sri Pedda Jeeyar Swamy of Tirumala presented new Vastrams to the presiding deity as well as the Utsava deities. Lord Rama was taken on a celestial ride on Hanumanta Vahana in the evening. Elsewhere, the Snapana Tirumanjanam for the deities of Sri Sita Lakshmana Anjaneya sameta Sri Ramachandra Murty was conducted on Wednesday at Ranganayakula Mandapam in Tirumala temple as part of the Sri Rama Navami festival. Tirumala Pontiff Pedda Jeeyar Swamy, EO AV Dharma Reddy, and other officials were present. Voluntary service of Srivari Sevaks gains popularity The role of Srivari Sevaks rendering voluntary service in Vontimitta Sri Kodanda Ramalayam is gaining popularity akin to Tirumala. Hundreds of sevaks are enthusiastically coming forward to participate in serving fellow devotees in various areas such as Annaprasadam, distribution of buttermilk and water, managing pilgrim crowd during the annual Brahmotsavams at Vontimitta. The popularity of the State festival of Sri Sita Rama Kalyanam at Vontimitta Kodanda Ramalayam has spread across Andhra Pradesh. With this, the devotees not only from Kadapa and Annamaiah districts, but also from Kurnool, Rajamahendravaram and other districts are seen participating voluntarily as Srivari Sevaks. The TTD has invited services of 500 sevaks everyday, while drafted another 1,200 exclusively for Sri Sita Rama Kalyanam on April 22. Besides, another 300 are deployed for the preparation of Talambralu. hundreds of devotees thronged the temple in Tirupati on Wednesday

Doctors in fray to gauge peoples pulse

VIJAYAWADA: Medical professionals getting elected to the legislative bodies is not new. Andhra Pradesh has a history of several doctors contesting the elections and successfully entering the State Assembly. Who can forget that former Chief Minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy was a doctor by profession? This time too, several doctors are contesting the Lok Sabha and Assembly seats. Here are some names Seediri Appalaraju He did his MBBS from Rangaraya Medical College in Kakinada and MD from Andhra Medical College in Visakhapatnam. Practised for 10 years as a doctor, before taking the plunge into politics in 2019. He joined the YSRC, contested Palasa Assembly seat, won, and became a minister in YS Jagan Mohan Reddys Cabinet. Now, he is contesting the same seat on YSRC ticket Tale Rajesh This 43-year-old candidate hails from a political family. His father Tale Bhadrayya represented Palakonda twice as an MLA. He did MBBS, DNB (Orthopedic Surgeon), and worked at Durgabai Deshmukh Hospital. He joined the YSRC and is now contesting the Rajam Assembly seat Chetti Tanuja Rani A medical professional with a specialisation in epidemiology, Rani holds a medical degree from the International School of Medicine-International University of Kyrgyzstan. Before her political journey, she served as a medical officer in ASR District Medical and Health Office in Paderu. Daughter of former BSNL officer Syam Sunder and nurse Varalakshmi, Tanujas political entry marks a significant transition. Her father-in-law is Araku MLA Chetti Palguna, and her husband Vinay is an active member of the ruling party. She is contesting from Araku, the largest Lok Sabha constituency in Andhra Prades on YSRC ticket Dasari Sudha Dasari Sudha She did her MBBS from Kurnool Medical College in 1999 and worked as a doctor in a private hospital in Kadapa. Her husband Dr G Venkata Subbaiah was Badvel MLA and died of illness in 2021. She contested on YSRC ticket in the byelection and won with a thumping majority. Byreddy Sabari Her father Byreddy Rajasekhar Reddy is a former minister. She worked as a gastroenterologist at Yashoda Hospital in Hyderabad and earned acclaim for her surgical expertise. She started her political career with the BJP, and recently joined TDP. She is contesting from the Nandyal LS seat. Sathi Suryanarayana Reddy Sathi Suryanarayana Reddy A medical professional, who did his MS in General Surgery from University of Mysore, plunged into politics and joined the Congress in 2011. He joined the YSRC in 2014, and unsuccessfully contested from Anaparthi. In 2014, he won the seat and the YSRC has fielded him again from Anaparthi. Guduri Srinivas A noted pulmonologist, he did his MBBS from Rangaraya Medical College, Kakinada, and was a gold medalist. Later, he did his DLO (ENT and MD (Pulmonology). He worked as a Professor of Pulmonary Medicine at GSL Medical College for 10 years. He established a 100-bed Cardio Respiratory Centre -- Vijaya Bharathi Chest Institute in Rajahmundry. Taking a plunge into politics, he joined the YSRC. He is contesting the Rajahmundry Lok Sabah seat now. ME Sunil Kumar He is a medical professional from a political family. Sunils father K Eranna is a former MLA from Madakasira belonging to the TDP. Sunil, who did his BDS from Vijayanagara Institute of Medical Sciences, worked as a doctor in a government hospital in Hindupur. Deciding to follow the footsteps of his father, he joined the TDP. He is in the election fray from Madakasira constituency. M Sudheer Reddy Hailing from a political family, he did his MBBS from Adichunchanagiri Institute of Medical Science, Mandya, Karnataka. Later, completed his Diploma in Anesthesia. Nephew of ex-minister MV Mysura Reddy, he joined the YSRC in 2011 and contested for the first time from Jammalamadugu in 2019 and won. He is in the election fray from the same segment.

Sri Rama Navami Celebrated with Zeal Across Andhra Pradesh

Kakinada: Sri Rama Navami was celebrated with fervour and traditional gaiety across Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday. Devotees thronged temples and pandals and participated in the divine celebrations commemorating the birth of Lord Rama. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams marked the festivities with a ceremonial Dhwajarohanam at the Sri Kodanda Rama Swamy temple in Vontimitta, Kadapa district, signalling the commencement of the annual Brahmotsavams. The temple is set to celebrate the auspicious Sri Sita Ramula Vari Kalyanam on April 22. At the hill shrine of Lord Venkateswara in Tirumala, TTD observed Sri Rama Navami Asthanam ritual. After the daily rituals, temple priests performed the sacred Snapana Tirumanjanam to the idols of Lord Sri Rama, Lakshmana, Sita, and Hanuman. Later in the day, the deity was taken out in a procession through the mada streets on Hanumantha Vahanam. Later, the pundits read out Sri Rama Jananam in Sri Rama Navami Asthanam, which took place near Bangaru Vakili inside the hill temple at around 10pm. The Sri Kodanda Rama temple in Tirupati witnessed similar celestial fervour, with a Snapana Tirumanjanam performed in the morning and an Asthanam in the evening. The Pedda Jeeyar Swamy of Tirumala presented new Vastrams to the presiding and Utsava deities, followed by Rama's celestial ride on Hanumantha Vahana. Meanwhile, Hindu shrines across the state celebrated the Sri Sita-Ramulavari Kalyanam in a grand manner, attracting devotees in large numbers. Priests elucidated the significance of Rama Navami, emphasizing the enduring legacy of Lord Rama's righteous rule. Spiritual fervour marked the celebrations at the famous Kodanda Ramalayam at Rama Mandiram, Seetha Ramachandra Swamy temple (Governorpet), and other Sri Rama temples in Vijayawada and its surroundings. Rama Navami pandals were erected in various localities, where priests distributed Panakam and Vadapappu as prasadam to the devotees. Similar grand celebrations were held in the Sri Sitaramanjaneya Swamy and other Ram temples in Mangalagiri, Ramanama Kshetram, Kodanda Ramalayam, and other temples in Guntur, as well as in Nandigama, Aitavaram, Mylavaram, Nuzvid, Penamaluru, Machilipatnam, Gudivada, Gannavaram, and other areas. Visakhapatnam witnessed a vibrant celebration of Ram Navami, with traditional ceremonies and public events organized by various temples and associations. The Ambika Bhag (part of Kanaka Mahalakshmi temple), Simhachalam temple, commissioner's office, and Ramalayam temple within the city police barracks hosted the 'Sri Rama Kalyanam' ceremonies. The Marwadi association also organised a Shoba Yatra, a procession commemorating the occasion, filling the streets with devotional fervour. The Srirama Navami Festival was celebrated in Godavari districts. The Sitha Rama Kalyanams were held in every Vaishnava and Shiva temples, by following the traditions and customs. Many devotees thronged the temples and took Prasadams and auspicious rice of the Kalyanam. The temples were decorated with illuminations and garlands. Many political leaders participated in the Srirama Kalyanam in their respective constituencies.

Mercury in AP Continues to Rise, Touches 43.5 Degrees Celsius in Kurnool

Anantapur: Andhra Pradesh is on the boil again with mercury levels rising on Wednesday and touching 44 degrees Celsius in Nandyal district, followed by 43.5 in Kurnool and 43.44 degrees Celsius in Anantapur district. Many temperature gauges across the state have crossed the 42 degrees Celsius mark. Temperatures, which had come down a couple of days ago, have started rising again by an average four degrees above the normal at several points in the state, particularly in the Rayalaseema region. Tarimela in Singanamala mandal in Anantapur district recorded 43.44 degrees Celsius. Tadipatri registered 43 degrees, official sources said. Jangamaheswarapuram recorded 43.2 degrees Celsius and Kadapa 42.2 degrees. Mercury levels had touched 45 degrees last week in Anantapur and Kurnool districts. However, they fell to 39 degrees three days ago. Elsewhere in AP, Narasapur area recorded 34.9 degrees Celsius while Vizag recorded 35.2 degrees; these being the lowest temperatures recorded on Wednesday. Scientists say the failure of the previous South West Monsoon has resulted in high mercury levels in the Rayalaseema region.

Local Bigwigs Trouble New Faces in Nandikotkur Poll Fray

Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh chairman Byreddy Siddharth Reddy said that during 2014-19, Lokesh and Naidu were involved in a scam of Rs 250 crore in the grant of a contract to Siemens. The father-son duo stole a large amount of the government or public money. (Image Source: facebook) Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh chairman Byreddy Siddharth Reddy said that during 2014-19, Lokesh and Naidu were involved in a scam of Rs 250 crore in the grant of a contract to Siemens. The father-son duo stole a large amount of the government or public money. (Image Source: facebook) Kurnool: Domination by local leaders is causing inconvenience to candidates of both the YSRC and Telugu Desam in the reserved constituency of Nandikotkur in Nandyal district. It has become a common practice for local leaders to exert influence on candidates and create troubles if they refuse to budge. During the last tenure, SAAP chairman Byreddy Siddartha Reddy of the YSRC held sway as legislator in both party activities and development matters. This resulted in disputes between retired IPS officer and MLA Thoguru Arthur and Siddartha Reddy, ultimately leading to Arthur's resignation from the party. Arthus is now the Congress candidate. Following the resignation of the sitting legislator, the YSRC announced the candidacy of Dr Sudhir Dara, a newcomer from Kadapa district. As Arthur had a strong cadre base in the constituency, the newcomer is facing difficulties in garnering support from the YSRC leaders and cadres. A similar situation prevails in the TD. The party nominated newcomer G. Jayasurya, said to be a follower of Mandra Sivananda Reddy, from the same constituency. Sivananda Reddy is a realtor who sought the MP seat from Nandyal, but TD preferred Byreddy Shabari as the alliance candidate, after she switched loyalty from the BJP. Previously, she served as the district president of the BJP. When Telugu Desam senior leader and Hindupur legislator Nandamuri Balakrishna visited the constituency recently, flex boards were displayed without the photo and mention of the party's Lok Sabha candidate Shabari. This caused protests within the party. Some leaders boycotted Balakrishna's programmes. TDs Nandikotkur candidate Jayasurya is said to have followed the directions of Mandra Sivananda and faced backlash from the party cadre. Leaders attributed this to the anti-party activities of Sivananda Reddy, who failed to secure the party's LS ticket from Nandyal. The Nandikotkur reserved constituency comprises seven mandals, including Nandikotkur, Pagidyala, Jupadu Bungalow, Kothapalle, Pamulapadu and Midthur. It was a general assembly segment until 2009, when it became reserved. In 2004, Gowru Charita Reddy from the Congress represented the constituency; and Byreddy Rajasekhar Reddy also served as a legislator from there after the 1994 and 1999 polls. Labbi Venkata Swamy from the Congress won the polls in 2009, followed by Isaiah Yekkaladevi from the YSRC in 2014, and retired police officer T. Arthur in 2019, both representing the YSRC. This time, Dr Sudhir Dara is contesting from the ruling YSRC, Gitta Jayasurya from the opposition, and the recent legislator Arthur is representing the Congress. Political observers anticipate a triangular contest. Arthur is having wide contacts in the constituency while the other two parties strive to garner voter support.

Vontimitta Brahmotsavams Begin With Ankurarpanam

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has made extensive arrangements for the grand annual Brahmotsavam at Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple at Vontimitta in Kadapa district being held from Wednesday, April 17, to April 25 including the celestial marriage on April 22.Marking the initiation of the Brahmotsavam, temple priests performed the Ankurarpanam on Tuesday. This is the first time after the states bifurcation that the head of government Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy will not be offering silk clothes and pearls to Lord Kodandarama Swamy on the day of celestial marriage on April 22 because of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). Vontimitta has been selected for performance of the official Sitarama Kalayanam in Andhra Pradesh after the historic Bhadrachalam became part of the Telangana state. TTD and Kadapa district administration have made elaborate arrangements for the Brahmotsavams. Separate queue lines, cool shelters, colourful rangolis and flower and electrical decorations have been arranged. To avoid irritants of the past, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams has deputed cooks and staff from Tirumala to Vontimitta for preparing Prasadam and for Annadanam. There will be daily Vahana Sevas in the mornings and evenings along the Mada streets of the Vontimitta temple town. There will also be cultural programmes by the artists of Annamacharya Project and Hindu Dharma Prachara Parishad. Following are daily Vahana Sevas and other events at the Vontimetta temple. April 17 Dhwajarohanam in Mithuna lagna and Sesha Vahana in the evening April 18 Venugopala Alankaram and Hamsa Vahanam at night April 19 Vatapatrasai Alankaram and Simha Vahana April 20 Navneeta Krishna Alankaram and Hanumanta Vahanam April 21 Mohini Alankaram and Garuda Vahanam in the evening April 22 Shiva Dhanurbhanga Alankaram in the morning and Sri Sitarama Kalyanotsavam and Gaja Vahanam in moon light April 23 Rathotsavam April 24 Kaliya Mardhana Alankaram and Aswa Vahanam April 25 Chakra Snanam and Dhwajavarohanam in the evening April 26 Pushpa Yagam

Kadapa MP Avinash Defends Self in Vivekas Murder

Anantapur: Kadapa MP Y.S. Avinash Reddy on Tuesday made it clear that he is not involved in any criminal activity related to the murder of former MP Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy. I rushed to the spot only after receiving a phone call from Sivaprakash Reddy, brother-in-law of Vivekananda Reddy, he underlined. Addressing a press conference in Kadapa, Avinash said he had remained silent during the past few days even though APCC president Y.S. Sharmila and Dr. N. Sunitha, daughter of Vivekananda, kept targeting him. He maintained that he is now talking about the case, as evidence is being fabricated against him. The MP pointed out that Vivekananda Reddy had campaigned for him a day before he had been murdered. He disclosed that the murdered former MP had wanted to do justice for his second family by selling his properties diamonds and immovable assets. He made it clear that he has faith in the judiciary and will come out clean, as he has no role in the case at any level.

CBI probe in Viveka murder case has loopholes: Kadapa MP

VIJAYAWADA : Asserting that he was innocent and in no way connected to the murder of former minister YS Vivekananda Reddy five years ago, Kadapa MP YS Avinash Reddy said that he and his family suffered for the past three years under false allegations. In a point-to-point rebuttal to N Suneetha, his cousin sister and daughter of YS Vivekananda Reddy, who made startling allegations against Avinash on Monday, the Kadapa MP said he is unable to understand why he and his family were wantonly targeted. Disputing the claims of Suneeta and YS Sharmila that his family and YS Vivekananda Reddys family were having a feud running between them, Avinash Reddy said nothing can be far from the truth. Had it been true then why Viveka uncle would campaign for me? Most importantly why would I be contacted immediately after his death, he asked. He further asserted that the CBIs investigation has been compromised and is full of loopholes. How can a person, who testified that he had murdered, be made into an approver and allowed to roam free on bail? How can Suneethas statements before CBI and SIT keep on changing? he questioned. Elaborating further, Avinash said in her initial statement Suneetha said she learned of the letter found at the crime scene from her husband N Rajasekhara Reddy which was a letter purportedly written by her father mentioning driver Prasad as suspected killer. She told CBI that it was forwarded to her husband through Vivekananda Reddys PA Krishna Reddy. She further said she was afraid and suspected that the letter might have been fabricated to blame Prasad and that he might be killed after the letter came out, he added. However, she took a U-turn in her statement a month later and distanced herself from the issue of the letter, he added Recalling what happened on the day of the incident, Avinash Reddy said that when he was on his way to Jammalamadugu for campaigning, he received a call from Shivaprakash Reddy, who is the blood brother of Sowbhagyamma, Vivekananda Reddys wife, that Viveka sir had died and asked him to come. I received the phone call at around 6.26 am and I reached there by 6.30 am. Went inside, saw the body, came out and informed the police, and expressed my suspicions, he clarified. According to him, Yerragangi Reddy came at 7.10 am and by that time, hundreds of people were present there. Why would I steal the evidence? If I had that motive, would I not do it, when there were only a few people when I reached there? Making illogical allegations, I am being dragged into a case that is in no way related to me, Avinash expressed. On Google Takeout, being shown as evidence, he said even Google itself says the programme is unreliable and it can also be fabricated. He observed that an investigation is being carried out on hearsay evidence of Dastagiri, who in the first place is an accused. He also disputed the records of WhatsApp messages that night and said he was sleeping at that time and had not attended to the phone in the first place. Even when my mobile is in the ideal state it receives messages and none of them were from Gangireddy and there were no outgoing messages, Avinash pointed out. He briefed that the statement from P Rajasekhar, working in Vivekananda Reddys house, clearly shows that A1 to A4 in the case were very close to the former minister and that Sowbhagyamma forced him to go to Kanipakam after the murder. Further it was also evident that for two years before his murder, Viveka uncle was neglected by his family and was under stress that he over consumed alcohol and overused cigarettes, the Kadapa MP stated. On the issue of the heart attack, Avinash said he never said that, and the statement given to SIT by Suneetha and her husband says that Krishna Reddy informed them of Vivekas death and that the body was lying in the bathroom with injuries on the body. As Viveka was a heart patient, they assumed that he might have died of a cardiac arrest and asked Krishna Reddy to tell the same. It was Suneetha and her husband who had hidden the evidence and facts, he alleged. The Kadapa MP also said there was never an issue regarding the Lok Sabha seat. I was made Kadapa MP in 2014 and again in 2019. Viveka uncle even on the day before his death while campaigning for me and going door-to-door covering 300 houses, asked people to vote for his sonsJagan and Avinash, who are like Ram Lakshman. Where all these illogical allegations are coming, I dont understand, he said. Avinash alleged that his cousin sisters Sharmila and Suneetha are reading the script of TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu and acting as per his directions.

Eight from AP do well in Civil Service Exams

Union Public Service Commission's headquarter. (Photo: Official source) Union Public Service Commission's headquarter. (Photo: Official source) Visakhapatnam: Eight candidates from Andhra Pradesh secured impressive ranks in the UPSC Civil Services Examination, the results of which were announced on Tuesday. Among the successful candidates, Bhanusree Lakshmi Annapurna Pratyusha secured the 198th rank. She had held the first rank in the AP Public Service Commission Group-1 exam. Hailing from the Kalla mandal area in the West Godavari district, Pratyusha completed her education from Delhi University in Economics Hons. She belongs to a family of modest means. Her father is a government school teacher and her mother a housemaker. Among the other UPSC qualifiers from Andhra Pradesh are Pradeep Reddy (382nd rank) from Kadapa district, Hari Prasad Raju (475th rank) from East Godavari district with a background in medicine and Govada Navyasree (995th rank), an engineer with a B.Tech degree, currently an administrative officer at the DMHO of state government. The list also includes K. Srinivasulu (526th rank) from Nandyal district, Marripati Nagabharat (580th rank) and P. Bhargav (590th rank) from Visakhapatnam, and Hanita Vemulapati (887th rank), Visakhapatnam. Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy congratulated all the qualifiers, particularly Ananya Reddy of Telangana who secured the third rank, Nandala Saikiran (the 27th rank) of Telangana and Merugu Kaushik (the 82nd rank) of Telangana, along with all Telugu speaking aspirants who cracked the prestigious civil services exam. The Chief Minister wished them the best for a fulfilling career in their service to the nation.

CBIs probe into Vivekananda Reddys murder farcical, alleges Avinash Reddy

The investigating agency compromised with slain leaders daughter Suneetha Nareddy and accused-turned-approver Shaik Dastagiri, alleges the Kadapa MP

Telangana HC reserves orders on plea to cancel Avinashs bail

HYDERABAD : Justice K Lakshman of the Telangana High Court has reserved orders in a petition filed by Shaik Dastagiri, an accused-turned-approver in YS Vivekananda Reddy murder case, seeking the cancellation of anticipatory bail granted to YSRC MP YS Avinash Reddy. Dastagiri alleged threats and intimidation by the latters henchmen to influence his deposition in favour of the MP. The Central Bureau of Investigati0n (CBI)had earlier filed a counter to Dastagiris petition, with its counsel arguing that Avinash Reddy wielded considerable influence and had managed to sway certain witnesses in the case. The CBI highlighted several complaints lodged by Dastagiri, alleging threats to himself and his family members, asserting that Avinash Reddy had breached the conditions of his bail. Responding to the courts inquiries, counsel for the CBI said that they had alerted the police to take necessary action based on Dastagiris complaints. Additionally, it was revealed that Suneetha Reddy, Vivekananda Reddys daughter, too contested the anticipatory bail granted to Avinash Reddy before the CBI could file its petition. Meanwhile, it was disclosed that Dastagiris father was attacked by 3-4 assailants in Kadapa on March 8. Senior counsel T Niranjan Reddy, representing Avinash Reddy, argued that Dastagiri was already under protection through the witness protection scheme. Niranjan Reddy highlighted the lack of relevance of Suneetha Reddys challenge and reiterated that the court had granted anticipatory bail to Avinash Reddy after a thorough examination of the case.

AP police develop AI tool to easily access election literature

KADAPA : Kadapa police, under the guidance of Chief Electoral Officer Mukesh Kumar Meena, took up an initiative to develop an artificial intelligence (AI) tool called Election Mitra (www.electionmitra.in). An AI-based search tool, Election Mitra can help stakeholders get required information from thousands of pages of election-related literature in a fast, user-friendly and authentic manner by allowing them to interact with the database in natural human language. The tool has incorporated information contained in more than 25,750 pages of source literature in the form of election-related manuals, handbooks, compendiums, circulars, press notes, notifications and Model Code of Conduct. It has also incorporated police related-literature like the Indian Penal Code, the Criminal Procedure Code, Evidence Act and all special and local laws such as the SC/ST Act, Representation of Peoples Act and Excise Act, the AP Police Manual and other documents like draft SOPs. Election Mitra tool will help officials easily refer to and obtain any required information at any time from this vast body of literature. The proposal for such an AI based tool was first mooted in the review meeting conducted by the ECI on January 9, 2024, with district election officers and district superintendents of police. UNIQUE FEATURES OF AI TOOL Accuracy and reliability of results: Election Mitra gives only authentic information along with exact references to the source documents. There is no chance of errors or false answers. Data protection & sovereignty: All data processing of Election Mitra is done in India-based servers and at no point does the user data leave Indian jurisdiction, unlike ChatGPT and Copilot. It has been developed by Kadapa District Police in collaboration with EvaDay Techmercial, a Hyderabad-based startup funded by the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India and Meta Corporation (the owner of Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp) WHO CAN USE IT Election returning officers, police officers, election observers, senior district level officers, various nodal officers for different election related functions, legal advisers etc Common citizens interested to get authentic information about the election process

YSRC, TDP nominees in Rajampet constituency face non-cooperation from dissident leaders

KADAPA : Contestants of the ruling YSRC and the tripartite alliance in Rajampet Assembly constituency of Annamayya district seem to be facing non-cooperation from the aspirants, who have been denied party tickets, in the poll campaign. Sitting YSRC MLA Meda Mallikarjuna Reddy did not get the ticket this time, but he was compensated by the party leadership by sending his brother Meda Raghunath Reddy to the Rajya Sabha. However, unhappy over being sidelined in the party, he is not extending any cooperation to YSRC contestant Akepati Amaranth Reddy, sources said. Former MLC Bathyala Changal Rayudu, who unsuccessfully contested from Rajampet in 2019, expected to get the TDP ticket this time too, but party chief N Chandrababu Naidu gave it to Sugavasi Balasubrahmanyam. Peeved, Changal Rayudu has refused to cooperate with the TDP official candidate. Not losing heart, the former MLC is said to be making every effort to prove that he is the right candidate as there is still time for last minute changes. Rajampet consists of Rajampet, Siddavatam, Vontimitta, Nandalur, Veeraballe and T Sundupalle mandals. The total number of voters in the constituency is 2,37,191, including 1,21,430 women and 10 transgenders. In the 2019 elections, Mallikarjuna Reddy defeated Changal Rayudu by a huge margin of 35,272 votes. In 2014, too, Mallikarjun Reddy won from the segment, but on TDP ticket. Taking stock of the situation Rajampet MP and YSRC Lok Sabha candidate PV Midhun Reddy held discussions with the Meda brothers, and Amarnath Reddy to resolve the issue. But Mallikarjun Reddy is said to have complained against Amarnath Reddy that the latter was trying to suppress his supporters by giving them no importance in party matters. Amarnath Reddy camp alleged that Mallikarjun Reddy had started sending his followers into the TDP. On the other hand, Changal Rayudu is continuing his Intintiki Bathyala programme promoting himself as the TDP candidate, creating a confusion among the electorate. Sugavasi is said to be ignoring Changal Rayudu, leading to an ungainly situation for the TDP and NDA Lok Sabha candidate N Kiran Kumar Reddy. People of Rajampet are waiting to see how this political drama will end before the filing of nominations.

'People of Kadapa know what kind of a person I am,' says Avinash Reddy expressing confidence in a hat-trick win

S Avinash Reddy, Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddys cousin brother and two-time MP from Kadapa parliamentary constituency, is confident of securing a third consecutive win. Kadapa has been a bastion of the YS Rajasekhara Reddy family for the past three-and-a-half decades. YSR himself served as an MP of Kadapa for four terms, while his younger brother YS Vivekananda Reddy held the seat for two terms. In an interview with S Nagaraja Rao, YS Avinash Reddy shares his vision to develop Kadapa. What are your winning chances for the third consecutive term from Kadapa? As promised, the YSRC government has implemented both welfare schemes and development programmes in the State and as well in Kadapa. I have utilised MPLADS and CSR funds from several corporate firms on various development works in all the Assembly segments falling under the Lok Sabha constituency. Furthermore, I have taken the initiative to get funds from the State government for implementing several projects in the Lok Sabha segment. We have brought Century Ply, JSW Steel, Kopparthi Electronic Manufacturing Cluster, and other major companies to the district, aiming to generate revenue to the government besides large scale employment for local youth. What are your plans to develop Kadapa Lok Sabha segment? Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddys aim is to develop Kopparthy Mega Industrial Park on the lines of Sri City, which stands as a beacon of industrial growth. With the government offering special subsidies and ensuring access to essential resources, all eyes are on Kopparthys potential to boost industrial development. The governments initiatives are expected to attract huge investments, signalling a major boost to the regions economy. Concerted efforts are being made to facilitate the establishment of industries in the industrial park. What are your initiatives to solve the drinking water problem? We have observed severe water scarcity in the upland mandals of the district. The State government has provided water to villages in Muddanur mandal through GNSS Canal by executing a lift irrigation scheme at a cost of Rs 8.50 crore. Similarly, seven tanks in villages in Kalasapadu mandal are now drawing water from Telugu Ganga Canal. About 60% of works of the reservoir in Giddangivaripalli village have been completed so far. We have set a target to provide irrigation and drinking water facility to each and every village in the parliamentary constituency. When will the construction work of Kadapa Steel Plant commence? JSW group has already obtained environmental clearance for the project. The Centre has been involved in the technological aspects of the steel plant. With an outlay of Rs 4,500 crore, the steel plant will be set up with a capacity of one million tonnes. The construction work is likely to commence soon. JSW is expected to produce steel in the first phase by Ugadi in 2026. What is the progress of Kadapa-Bengaluru railway line project? Land acquisition issues have been hindering the progress of the proposed railway line. We have proposed a plan to change the alignment with Pendlimarri to Puttaparthi via Vempalle and Pulivendula, which will connect Bengaluru. The project is expected to be on the path of progress soon. Will Vivekas murder case affect your winning chances in the election? People of Kadapa know what kind of a person Im. I have never encouraged any crime. This case is purely with presumptions, assumptions and creations. There are absolutely no facts in the case. My sister Suneetha and some influential people from New Delhi have targeted the YSRC, and are trying to create a rift within the YSR family. I have taken so much pain in the last three years with the allegations levelled against me. My father Bhaskar Reddy at the age of 74 has been in judicial remand for the past one year, and my family members are suffering a lot. Yet I ensured, Im always among the people to solve their problems.

Severe heatwave likely to hit 63 mandals of AP today

VISAKHAPATNAM : The prevailing hot weather conditions across the State are likely to persist, with a heatwave expected to be recorded for the next three days. According to the India Meteorological Department Amaravati Centre forecast, isolated places in North Coastal AP (NCAP), Yanam, and South Coastal AP (SCAP) are likely to experience heatwave conditions, while Rayalaseema may face hot, humid, and discomforting weather. The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) has identified 63 mandals, including three in Alluri Sitarama Raju, four in Anakapalle, two in East Godavari, one in Eluru, three in Kakinada, 13 in Parvathipuram-Manyam, 15 in Srikakulam, and 22 in Vizianagaram, are likely to record severe heatwave conditions. Additionally, 130 mandals are expected to experience heatwave conditions. As many as 38 mandals recorded severe heatwaves and 75 mandals recorded heatwaves on Monday. Nandyal recorded the highest maximum temperature of 43 degrees Celsius, followed by Kurnool at 41.8 degrees Celsius, Nandigama at 40.8, Jangamaheshwarapuram at 40.6, Tirupati and Kadapa at 40.4, and Anantapur at 40.3 degrees Celsius. IMD forecasts above-normal southwest monsoon The IMD has released its long-range forecast for the southwest monsoon, predicting above-normal rainfall for Andhra Pradesh from June to September. This forecast attributes the anticipated rainfall to moderate El Nio conditions currently prevailing over the equatorial Pacific region. Climate models suggest a transition to neutral conditions at the beginning of the monsoon season, followed by La Nia conditions in second half of the season. Nandyal records highest temp of 43C As many as 38 mandals recorded severe heatwaves and 75 mandals recorded heatwaves on Monday. Nandyal recorded the highest temperature of 43C, followed by Kurnool at 41.8, Nandigama at 40.8, Jangamaheshwarapuram at 40.6, Tirupati at 40.4C

Vontimitta Brahmotsavams begin on April 16 with more preparations

Anantapur: The stage is set for the grand Sri Rama Navami Brahmotsavam celebrations at the Lord Kodandarama Swamy temple in Vontimitta, commencing Tuesday. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has pulled out all the stops for this years festivities. The temple premises and surrounding Mada Streets have been adorned with vibrant decorations, creating an atmosphere of devotion. TTD has implemented several improvements based on insights from previous years' Brahmotsavams. To ensure a comfortable experience for devotees, a state-of-the-art shed with German technology has been erected in front of the Ramalayam. TTD has also set up Annadanam counters to provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the festivities. Expert cooks and teams from Tirumala have been specifically deputed to prepare the 'anna prasadam' for the devotees. Following feedback from last year, TTD and the Kadapa district administration have taken joint initiatives to address shortcomings, particularly at the Kalyana Vedika of Lord Kodandarama Swamy. This year, meticulous arrangements have been made to ensure a smooth and seamless experience for devotees attending the celestial wedding ceremony scheduled for April 22 night. Additional infrastructure upgrades include a dedicated kitchen to prepare prasadam specifically for the Kalyanotsavam. For the convenience of devotees, underground electricity supply, a separate sump for drinking water, and a new road leading from the railway station to the Kalyana Mandapam have all been established.

Attack strengthened my resolve to serve people: Jagan Mohan Reddy

Attack strengthened my resolve to serve people: Jagan Mohan Reddy YSRCP chief and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy on Monday said the attack against him only strengthened his resolve to serve the people, rather than diminishing it. Unidentified miscreants hurled a stone at the chief minister, injuring him on his left temple, when he was canvassing for votes on Saturday night near Vivekananda School Centre in Vijayawada's Singh Nagar. The YSRCP chief was in Gudivada town in Krishna district for a public meeting as part of his Memanta Siddham (we are all ready) election campaign bus tour, ahead of the simultaneous elections to the 175-member Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly and the 25 seats of the state in the Lok Sabha on May 13. The attack has only increased my resolve to serve the people, not diminished it. Maybe the wound on my forehead will recover in 10 days, but the wounds inflicted by Chandrababu (Naidu) on the poor people are forever, Reddy said. According to the CM, TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu, the BJP, and Congress and the ''vested'' media houses are attacking him for ''doing everything for peoples welfare''. Citing the Mahabharata, he said one arrow shot at Arjuna did not mean that the Kauravas won, and expressed confidence that a single stone thrown at him will not stop the defeat of the evil and rich. Such attacks will not shake my resolve, and it means that we are so close to victory, and they are so far from it, he said. He asked the people of the state if they are ready to fight against the opposition for the welfare and the future of the poor, as well as to ensure that all welfare schemes continue for another five years. Reddy alleged that Naidu, who failed to keep his promises, mocked the government for its welfare schemes, the free electricity given to farmers and English education provided in government schools. He also alleged that the TDP chief had looted villages in the name of Janmabhoomi Committees. The chief minister asserted that he had fulfilled 99 per cent of the promises he had made, by considering the YSRCP manifesto as a holy book. Earlier on Monday, Reddy resumed his electioneering bus tour from Kesarapalle in NTR District, following a day's break after the stone attack. Reddy canvassed through Gannavaram, Atkur, Veeravalli Cross, Hanuman Junction and other villages. He is scheduled to make a halt for the night at Narayanapuram. Reddy has embarked on a 21-day election campaign bus tour from Idupulupaya in Kadapa district to Icchapuram in Srikakulam district.

Y.S. Vivekanandas daughter seeks support for her cousin Sharmila in Kadapa

Suneetha, who is currently campaigning for her cousin Y.S. Sharmila, stated that she had been fighting for justice for the past five years

Waiting for justice in my fathers murder case for last five years, says Sunitha Reddy

Hyderabad: Former MP YS Viveknanda Reddys daughter Sunitha Reddy on Monday said the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which is probing her fathers murder case that took place in Kadapa in 2019, need to do more to render justice to her family. Interacting with media persons here, she said she has been waiting for the last five years seeking justice for her family and ensuring stern punishment to those involved in the case. We are fighting alone seeking justice, she said, thanking all those who are supporting her. Stating that the CBI is facing pressure in the case, Sunitha Reddy shared a few details about the case through a power-point presentation. She explained in detail about the incident along with call data records (CDR) and Google techout besides Internet Protocol Detail Record (IPDR) details. Sunitha Reddy recalled that the CBI named four persons - Erra Gangi Reddy (A1), Sunil Yadav (A2), Umashankar Reddy (A3) and Dastagiri (A4) as an accused in the first-charge sheet. YSRCP MP YS Avinash Reddy maintained links with Gangi Reddy and Uma Shankar, but Avinash Reddy was claiming that he was innocent in the case, she added.

Injured YSRCP chief Jagan Mohan Reddy resumes poll campaign in Andhra Pradesh

Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy resumed electioneering bus tour from Kesarapalle after a stone attack, canvassing at Gannavaram, moving through various villages. He kicked off a 21-day campaign from Kadapa district to Srikakulam. Elections on May 13, results on June 4.

Injured CM Jagan Mohan Reddy resumes poll campaign in Andhra Pradesh

NTR DISTRICT: YSRCP chief and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy on Monday resumed his electioneering bus tour from Kesarapalle in NTR District, following a day's break after a stone attack. Unidentified miscreants hurled a stone at the chief minister on Saturday night near Vivekananda School Centre in Vijayawada's Singh Nagar, which injured his left temple when he was canvassing for polls. Reddy is canvassing for the polls at Gannavaram. He will traverse through Atkur, Veeravalli Cross, Hanuman Junction and other villages today. Reddy has embarked on a 21-day election campaign bus tour from Idupulupaya in Kadapa district to Icchapuram in Srikakulam district. Elections for the 175-member Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh are scheduled on May 13 and the counting of votes will be held on June 4.

Injured YSRCP chief resumes poll campaign in Andhra Pradesh

Injured YSRCP chief resumes poll campaign in Andhra Pradesh YSRCP chief and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy on Monday resumed his electioneering bus tour from Kesarapalle in NTR District, following a day's break after a stone attack. Unidentified miscreants hurled a stone at the chief minister on Saturday night near Vivekananda School Centre in Vijayawada's Singh Nagar, which injured his left temple when he was canvassing for polls. Reddy is canvassing for the polls at Gannavaram. He will traverse through Atkur, Veeravalli Cross, Hanuman Junction and other villages today. Reddy has embarked on a 21-day election campaign bus tour from Idupulupaya in Kadapa district to Icchapuram in Srikakulam district. Elections for the 175-member Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh are scheduled on May 13 and the counting of votes will be held on June 4.

Rs 23.62 crore unaccounted cash & valuables seized in Kadapa during checks

KADAPA: Ahead of elections, preventive measures were implemented and tightened the vigil in Kadapa district to enhance the security. From January this year, police seized Rs 23.62 crore unaccounted cash and valuables at different checkposts till date in Kadapa district. Speaking to mediapersons on Sunday, Kadapa Superintendent of Police (SP) Siddharth Kaushal said that from January this year, nearly Rs 12,49,32,812 cash was transported without proper documentation and registered 255 First Information Reports (FIRs) till the date. Further, with the efforts of the police, around 17.904 kgs of gold and 41.925 kgs of silver worth Rs 11,13,14,403 were seized. The total value of the seized property was Rs 23.62 crore. Regarding ganja, around 105.6 kgs of contraband worth Rs 5.5 lakh was confiscated and 174 cases were registered, besides arresting 208 people. Nearly 3,249.74 litres of non-duty paid liquor (NDPL) worth Rs 26,04,414 was seized. The SP said that they have also arrested 2,526 people and seized Rs 77,23,962 worth 14,010.43 litres of duty-paid liquor being transported illegally. The police have also seized Rs 3,91,220 worth 1,433 litres of ID liquor and arrested 83 people in connection with smuggling the contraband. They also seized Rs 38.11 lakh worth 1,33,060 litres of jaggery wash and destroyed it. As many as 17,815 people were bound over and out of 774 licensed weapons in the district, 678 were deposited with the police. Siddharth Kaushal said they conducted Palle Nidra in 722 villages in eight assembly constituencies and also in Vontimitta and Siddavatam from March 3 to April 12. They performed Palle Darasai in 324 villages from April 1 to 12.

Think of your childrens future before exercising franchise, Sharmila tells voters in Andhra Pradesh

The people have realised the consequences of casting their votes in favour of the TDP first and then the YSRCP, says the Congress candidate for Kadapa Lok Sabha seat

Vijayamma Leaves for US Amid Turf War Within YSR Family

Anantapur: With no possibility of any reconciliation between her two children Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and APCC president Y.S. Sharmila Vijayamma, spouse of late chief minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, has left for the US to be with her grandson. Her departure comes when the bitterness within the YSR family has peaked ahead of the forthcoming assembly and Lok Sabha general elections in Andhra Pradesh. The division within the family has come in the wake of the murder of Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy and the case has dragged on through the full term of Jagan Mohan Reddys rule. On one side are APCC chief Sharmila and Vivekanandas daughter Dr. Sunita, who are critical of the AP Chief Minister for not using his good offices in resolving the case. They are doubly upset that Jagan Mohan Reddy has gone on to give the YSRC ticket from Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency to Y.S. Avinash Reddy, sitting MP from Kadapa, who is one of the accused in the Vivekananda Reddy murder case. Presently, Avinash Reddys father Y.S. Bhaskar Reddy is in judicial custody in the murder case, while Avinash Reddy is on bail, facing charges of playing a role in Vivekanandas murder for political gain. Vijayamma had been under tremendous pressure as on one side her son and CM Jagan Mohan Reddy is contesting from Pulivendula , while her daughter Sharmila is heading the Congress party in AP, which is fighting against Jagans rule. Moreover, Sharmila is also contesting from the Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency against her cousin and sitting MP Avinash Reddy. Pulivendula is part of the Kadapa parliament seat. Vijayamma had offered prayers for both Jagan Mohan Reddy and Sharmila at the YSR Ghat in Idupulapaya when they launched their election campaigns from there. While Sharmila and Sunitha are targeting Avinash Reddy unequivocally asking voters not to elect those involved in criminal activities to Lok Sabha, their aunt and sister of late CM Rajasekhar Reddy Vimala Reddy has pulled up the cousin sisters for tarnishing the image of YSR family and campaigning against their younger brother Avinash. The fight within the YSR family has raised the hopes of Telugu Desam, which is hoping to benefit from division of votes within the Chief Ministers family.

Kadapa Police Develop AI tool to Scan Through Data on Polls

Anantapur : The Kadapa police have developed an Artificial Intelligence tool titled Election Mitra ( www.electionmitra.in ) to provide assistance at all levels to the ongoing election process. Kadapa SP, Siddarth Kaushal, who initiated the efforts to make use of AI for the general elections won praise from the Election Commission. Those seeking information on the poll process would zero in on it from the thousands of pages of election related literature in a fast, user-friendly and authentic manner. It would allow them to interact with the database in natural human language, the SP claimed here on Sunday. The AI tool scans information contained in more than 25,750 pages of source literature in the form of election manuals, handbooks, compendiums, circulars, press notes, notifications, MCC code etc. It also incorporates aspects like the various major criminal laws (IPC,CrPC, IEA etc.), the AP Police Manual and draft SOPs for police investigation. The proposal for such an AI based tool was first mooted in the review meeting conducted by the ECI with district election officers and district superintendents of police on Jan 9. The Kadapa SP developed the tool. It is not possible for officials engaged in election duty to remember all election-related information. The ElectionMitra tool helps one obtain any required information any time from this database. Users with authenticated login credentials can access the tool via a web portal, which is both desktop and mobile friendly. Users can simply start asking questions in natural human language and the system will generate responses based on the data that it has, the SP explained. The tool can be useful to officials engaged in election management like returning officers, police officers, election observers, senior district level officers, various nodal officers for different election related functions, legal advisers etc. Data protection and Data sovereignty: Unlike other AI-based tools, all data processing of ElectionMitra is done in India-based servers and at no point does the user data leave Indian jurisdiction, unlike chat GPT, Copilot etc. This has been developed by Kadapa district police in collaboration with Eva Daytechmercial, a Hyderabad-based startup funded by the Union Department of Science & Technology & Meta Corporation that owns Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp etc.

Kadapa police develop AI tool to provide easy access to poll-related information

Election Mitra provides quick, user-friendly, and authentic access to thousands of pages of election-related literature, say the police officers