AWARAs Swim Sundays for eco-conservation

VIJAYAWADA: Amid the scorching summer, numerous families actively gather on the Krisha riverbed in Vijayawada to participate in the weekly Swim Sunday Camp programme. Organised by the NGO AWARA Swim and Rescue Academy since 2014, this camp is committed to nature conservation. What began as a humble cleanup initiative has blossomed into a transformative experience aimed at nurturing eco-awareness among future generations. These camps are thoughtfully crafted by child psychologists and educators, with swimming serving as both the central theme and catalyst for change. Each session starts with adults leading the cleanup of litter, while children partake in warm-up runs, culminating in a waterfront circle chain. From yoga sessions to tree pose competitions and enlightening talks by esteemed guests, the camp offers a diverse array of activities designed to foster physical fitness, mental activity, and environmental stewardship. Throughout the day, children showcase their talents through storytelling, poetry recitals, and martial arts demonstrations. Environmentalist and founder of AWARA, Prof Ajay Katragadda, emphasised that safety remains paramount, with stringent supervision and adherence to safety protocols overseen by experienced coaches and lifeguards. Ajay also mentioned that beyond water activities, the camp extends its impact through community gardening initiatives and environmental conservation projects. Swim coach Sakuntala Devi A, who specialises in women and children swim training, provides safety instructions. Coaching assistant Soujanya Velineni and lifeguard Pankaj Kumar Gaya hand out flotation devices. Thanks to strict supervision and safety standards, we have never had any issues during our Swim Sundays, she said. Children dive and splash in the water, while advanced swimmers prepare to cross the river, accompanied by lifeguards proficient in basic life-saving skills who retrieve plastic debris from the water. The final phase includes water games in shallow areas, overseen by senior swimmers Indirani and Gowri Devi Basava. Many kids from our school have won prizes in various sports thanks to Sunday swimming practices, noted Sharone, a teacher from Aravinda Schools in Kunchanapalli of Guntur district. AWARA swimmers and runners, assisted by children, have created two mini-parks along the riverbank, said Soujanya Velineni, AWARA Community Gardening coordinator. The children prepare to depart, enjoying organic ragi malt drinks prepared by Aravinda School staff. Participation in these camps is free, with a token fee for safety gear and supervision. Many individuals who started as novice swimmers years ago, either as children themselves or accompanied by their parents or grandparents, have since learned to swim proficiently. Some have even progressed to compete at the state and national levels, with a few achieving success in master competitions. Recently, winners and other participants of the 2024 Periyar River race in Kochi celebrated by planting several saplings along the riverbank alongside camp children, aiming to inspire future generations, noted Ajay. Additionally, numerous pain and rehab patients, trained by Dr Ajay, can be regularly spotted swimming in the river every Wednesday at the Prakasam Barrage.

Heavy rains lash parts of Andhra Pradesh, more showers likely

VIJAYAWADA: Moderate to heavy rains lashed isolated parts of West Godavari, Parvatipram Manyam, Palnadu, Prakasam, Sri Satya Sai, Alluri Sitarama Raju, YSR, Annamayya and Nellore districts on Saturday. The highest rainfall of 8.75 cm was reported in Yelamanchili of West Godavari district, followed by 6.7 cm in Paravathipuram of Parvathipuram-Manyam district, and 4.25 cm in Dachepalli of Palnadu districts. Daytime temperatures continued to dip below the 40-degree Celsius mark in most places in Andhra Pradesh due to overcast sky conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of 40-50 kmph at isolated places across AP on Sunday and Monday.

Andhra Pradesh: SIT launches inquiry into post-poll violence

VIJAYAWADA: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by Director General of Police Harish Kumar Gupta as per the directions of the Election Commission of India (ECI) to probe the violence on the day of polling and the aftermath in the State, launched its investigation on Saturday. Headed by Inspector General of Police (IG) rank officer Vineet Brijlal, the 13-member SIT would conduct a through probe into the violence that erupted in Palnadu, Anantapur and Tirupati. Divided into four teams, ACB SP Rama Devi, ACB Additional SP Sowmyalatha, Srikakulam ACB DSP Ramana Murthy, CID DSP P Srinivasulu, Ongole ACB DSP Valluri Srinivasa Rao, Tirupathi ACB DSP Ravi Manohara Chary, Inspectors V Bhushanam, K Venkat Rao, Rama Krishna, Srinivas, Moin, N Prabhakar and Siva Prasad, visited the places where the incidents of violence reported, and examined the FIRs registered pertaining to the riots and arson. The four teams visited Macherla, Narasaraopet, Chandragiri and Tadipatri and collected information pertaining to group clashes and violence. According to sources, one team of SIT visited Sri Padmavathi Mahila Viswa Vidyalayam (SPMVV) in Tirupati and launched a probe into the post-poll violence that occurred on May 14. The teams also reviewed the status of investigation of the cases registered and visited the scenes of offence. As part of the investigation, the SIT is set to collect the CCTV footage, media clippings and other evidence in the violence-hit places and the attacks on polling stations in Macherla and Narasaraopet constituencies. After reviewing the cases, the SIT teams will submit their preliminary investigation reports to Vineet Brijlal on Sunday. The teams are likely to visit the violence-hit places again on Sunday. Earlier in the day, Vineet Brijlal held a meeting with all the 13 SIT members and gave necessary instructions to complete the investigation within the stipulated time. Meanwhile, the DGP directed the SIT chief to submit a detailed report to the ECI based on which action will be initiated against the perpetrators of violence and errant officials for dereliction of duties.

Andhra Pradesh: No diversion of funds to clear bills, asserts Special Chief Secy

VIJAYAWADA: In the wake of TDP allegations that the State government is diverting funds to clear the bills of contractors close to Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, the Finance Department issued a statement furnishing details of funds released from May 14 to 18. The Special Chief Secretary of Finance Department in a release on Saturday, said that the department is functioning strictly in conformity with the guidelines of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and the directives issued by the Election Commission of India from time to time, in respect of all its activities, including the clearing of bills. The allegations that the government has selectively cleared the bills of unnamed contractors or made payments only to the contractors at the cost of welfare schemes are incorrect and baseless, he asserted. According to the details furnished by the Special Chief Secretary, Rs 7,546.34 crore payments were made between May 14 and 18. Further, he elaborated on the payment for DBT schemes, which included YSR Aasara, input subsidy to farmers, Cheyutha, EBC Nestham, Jagananna Vidya Deevena and YSR Kalyana Kanuka. It is evident that the major share of expenditure i.e. around (78%), is made for DBT schemes and more than (99%) of expenditure for other than works expenditure, he said. It may be noted that contrary to allegations of payments amounting to Rs 4,000 crore being made to a few select unnamed contractors, in reality, a meagre payment of Rs 7.01 crore was made towards works relating to courts and others, he explained. The aforesaid expenditure and the clearance of bills were made following the provisions of the Andhra Pradesh Finance Code and the Model Code of Conduct, he averred.

Andhra Pradesh: Govt staff raise concern over high invalidation rate of postal ballots

VIJAYAWADA: Even after the end of Assembly and Lok Sabha elections in Andhra Pradesh, employees are voicing out their concerns over the complexities of the postal ballot process, which they believe is causing a significant number of ballots to be invalidated. They are increasingly worried about their votes being not counted, as evidenced by the high invalidation rate in previous elections with 16% in 2014 and 20% in 2019. Andhra Pradesh has emerged as the State with the highest voter turnout in the general elections so far, with a cumulative polling percentage of 81.86 and the winning chances of the candidate may be with slender margin votes. Hence, the postal ballots whose turnout is nearly 95 per cent, is expected to play a key role in determining the fortunes of candidates. Leaders of various employee unions, during the exercise of their franchise through postal ballots, pointed out that the existing system, unchanged since 1956, requires employees to follow a lengthy and intricate procedure involving multiple steps and stringent verification process. This includes having the postal ballot recognised by a gazetted officer, filling of declaration form, and properly sealing the ballot in multiple covers, all of which contribute to frequent errors and subsequent invalidation of votes. Despite being called a postal ballot, employees cast their votes at designated polling booths. Speaking to TNIE, Municipal Teachers Federation of Andhra Pradesh State president Somarouthu Ramakrishna emphasised, The current method, which has been in use for decades, poses significant difficulties for our employees who actively participate in the election process. In the 2019 Assembly elections, 59,000 votes out of 2,00,000 postal ballots were declared invalid due to the cumbersome procedure. According to the Election Commission, 4,97,718 postal ballots were cast in the State. The deadline for these ballots to reach the Election Commission through the postal department is June 3. As of May 9 (the last date for employees on election duty), as many as 4,44,218 votes were cast by State government employees, 13,700 by senior citizens above 85 years old, 12,700 by voters with special needs, and 27,100 by other emergency service workers. The union urged the Election Commission of India by writing a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner to simplify the postal ballot process by considering the vote in the small cover as a valid postal vote and extending the deadline for casting postal ballots till June 3. Postal ballot will be rejected in case of... Non-signing of the declaration form by the employee Not entering the serial number of the ballot paper in the declaration form Absence of attestation by a gazetted officer on declaration Form-13B Improper sealing of the voted postal ballot Putting both the postal ballot and the declaration form in the same cover Marking either above or below the candidates symbol instead of on the symbol

1st Indian civilian astronaut takes off on May 19

BENGALURU: Captain Gopichand Thotakura , the second Indian who will travel to space after then Sqn Ldr Rakesh Sharma in April 1984, is set to make history on Sunday with Blue Origins NS-25 mission. He will be Indias first civilian astronaut to go to space, and will be wearing a badge bearing the Indian flag as he takes flight on Sunday. Along with six other crew members, the seventh human flight of the New Shepard, Thotakura will go beyond the Karman Line the boundary that separates Earths atmosphere and outer space and return to Earth. This mission not only signifies an Indians re-entry into the space race, but also makes history with its crew of distinguished astronauts. Thotakuras flight will be the first Indian astronauts foray into space exploration in four decades, following Wing Commander Rakesh Sharmas iconic journey aboard Soyuz T-11 in April 1984. Honoured to represent India The mission will be telecast live from 7 pm on Blue Origins website. One of the expeditions highlights will be the astronauts sending postcards to space on behalf of the Club for the Future, a programme designed to encourage and support the next generation of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) professionals. The astronaut from Vijayawada in AP, who is proud to represent India on this space journey, said, As the first civilian Indian astronaut embarking on this historic journey with Blue Origins NS-25 mission, I am honoured to represent India on this voyage. India is making a mark in space exploration worldwide. This voyage symbolises the spirit of human endeavour and ingenuity on a global scale. I hope this exploration inspires future generations of STEAM professionals as we push the boundaries of space exploration together. Founded by billionaire Jeff Bezos in 2000, this will be Blue Origins 25th flight.

District officials lay focus on fool-proof security at strongrooms

Collectors and Superintendents of Police visit the venues where EVMs are stored and direct personnel manning them to keep a strict vigil

EC appoints news SPs for three districts in State

The new Superintendents of Police of Palnadu, Tirupati and Anantapur districts shall report immediately, the ECI said in its orders

EC appoints news SPs for three districts in State - The Hindu

EC appoints news SPs for three districts in State The Hindu

APSRTC MD Warns of Fake WhatsApp Number

Vijayawada : The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) Managing Director (MD), Ch Dwaraka Tirumala Rao, issued a public alert on Saturday regarding a fake WhatsApp number impersonating him. An imposter has been using Rao's photo as their WhatsApp display picture and making calls using the number 7033400216. The MD has lodged a complaint with Vijayawada Cyber Crime Police. Rao urged all public officials and citizens to be cautious of calls and messages from this fraudulent number. He advised everyone to refrain from responding to any communication originating from 7033400216 and to block the number immediately.

EC Appoints District Collector, 3 SPs in AP

Vijayawada : The Election Commission of India appointed district collector for Palnadu and three SPs for Palnadu, Tirupati and Anantapur. They are: Lathkar Srikesh Balaji as district collector for Palnadu, Mallika Garg as SP of Palnadu, Harshavardhan as SP of Tirupati and Gautami Shalini as SP of Anantapur.

EC Bans Sale of Loose Petrol, Diesel in AP

Vijayawada : Election authorities in Andhra Pradesh have banned loose sale of petrol and diesel in bottles, containers and drums up to June 10 as part of implementation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). Following the ban, fuel will be filled at petrol pumps only in the fuel tanks of vehicles. The measure has been taken in the wake of AP witnessing violence during the polls on May 13 and also after the polls. Petrol bombs have been hurled mainly in Macherla area of Palnadu. Authorities have also seized loose petrol stocks in the area. Election authorities have thus decided to initiate several steps to check such kind of violence. Accordingly, following a directive from chief electoral officer Mukesh Kumar Meena, district collectors have ordered managements of petrol bunks not to sell petrol and diesel in bottles, drums and other containers. They have warned that any lose sale will lead to cancellation of the license. AP has nearly 3,500 petrol bunks, which sell 9,00010,000 kilolitres of diesel and 5,0006,000 kilolitres of petrol per day in the state. Petroleum dealers maintain that they sell diesel in containers to several industrial units, including aquaculture farms, to operate their machinery. Similarly, the fuel is also sold to hospitals, public / private offices, commercial complexes and heavy earth moving machines, so that they can operate without any interruption. AP Federation of Petroleum Traders general secretary P. Ravi Kumar said, We will follow the directions of the election authorities on sale of petrol and diesel. However, we intend to request them to permit sale of diesel in loose quantities, so that certain industries and establishments can run. Curbs on fuel sales till June 10 come in the wake of counting of votes in the assembly and parliamentary general elections on June 4. Results are to be announced thereafter. Political party that secures a majority of seats will then stake claim to form the government. Election authorities have thus imposed curbs on sale of fuel till June 10.

AP Makes Payments for Majority DBT Schemes

Vijayawada : AP government, following directions of the Election Commission of India (ECI) has released amounts to DBT schemes, whose payments had been stopped after the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) came into force. A press release of the AP finance department on Saturday said it has been acting in strict conformity with the guidelines of the Model Code of Conduct and directives issued by the Election Commission of India from time to time, including making payments for various DBT schemes. The finance department refuted allegations that 4,000 crore had been paid to a few select unnamed contractors. Officials termed these allegations baseless.

Woman Found Dead in Machilipatnam

Vijayawada : Police in Machilipatnam are investigating the death of a 30-year-old woman in Borrapothupalem on Saturday. The victim, identified as Kagitha Siva Nagarani, was a mother of three children. Reports indicate domestic issues may have been a factor. Nagarani's husband is currently assisting with enquiries. The Machilipatnam rural police station has registered a case and is conducting a thorough investigation to determine the cause of death.

AP Exit Polls Awaited With Excitement on June 1

Exit polls have predicted rout for Congress in the assembly polls to Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh when counting of votes takes place on Sunday. Exit polls have predicted rout for Congress in the assembly polls to Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh when counting of votes takes place on Sunday. Vijayawada: June 1 is the day on which the last phase of the 2024 general elections will be held in India. On the day, several organisations are expected to release their exit polls. In Andhra Pradesh, people are already receiving anonymous calls seeking details about their choice in the May 13 polling. Recorded voices are giving them numbers 1, 2 and 3 to indicate whether they have voted for YSRC, Telugu Desam or another, not necessarily in this order. Incidentally, majority of pre-poll surveys gave an edge to YSRC in the 2024 elections. Several surveys, after the formation of Telugu Desam, BJP and Jana Sena alliance, favoured the opposition alliance. The rank and file of YSRC are on cloud nine with the statement of Chief Minister and YSRC president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy regarding re-registering a landslide victory in the 2024 elections, surpassing the 2019 mammoth tally of 151 MLA and 22 MP seats. The statement of Jagan Mohan Reddy gave a boost to the ruling party candidates, leaders and cadres, who had been at the crossroads due to the claim of opposition TD, BJP and JS alliance that it will win 160 seats. In the 2019 elections, India Today-Axis My India exit poll predicted that YSRC would win between 130 and 135 seats. It turned out to be close to the actual results. Other predictions varied significantly. INSS Media forecast a TD victory with 118 seats. I-News and LRG-FLASH also presented diverse outcomes. In the last seven days, several exit polls have been conducted regarding the 2024 Andhra Pradesh Assembly and Lok Sabha elections, revealing varied insights. For the assembly elections, majority of pre-poll surveys are giving an edge to YSRC, while others are favouring the TD alliance. In the process, the political atmosphere is heating up in the state. However, many are waiting for the June 1 exit polls, so that they could have a better picture of what could be the result on June 4.

Cops Arrest Man Sending Jagans Take Off Updates

VIJAYAWADA: AP police on Saturday arrested Dr. Vuyyuru Lokesh Babu, reported to be a Telugu Desam sympathiser, for sending messages from Gannavaram Airport about Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy's take off on a trip to Europe on Friday night. According to Gannavaram police, Dr. Lokesh hails from Washington and possesses an American citizenship. He had been at the Gannavaram Airport while the Chief Minister took off with his family for their foreign tour. Police found that Dr. Lokesh had been sending messages to Telugu Desam cadre about the CMs international trip. He went on to give a protest call. However, no one turned up. While being questioned by police, Dr. Lokesh complained of having a heart attack. The police admitted him to a private hospital for treatment. Gannavaram police later said they took Dr. Lokesh into preventive custody after receiving information about possible protest programmes while Jagan Mohan Reddy had been departing. Police said they later set him free. Speaking to media later, Dr. Lokesh claimed that he had been kidnapped and attacked by police because he questioned Jagans policies. He protested that despite being an American citizen, he had been tortured by police and officials. Dr. Lokesh declared that he will fight against his detention till action is taken against officials who are responsible for behaving inhumanly with him.

Stray Dog Stabbed in Guntur, Police Investigate

The carcasses were found next to the Jagjivan Ram Nagar police station, and residents protested on Monday morning. The carcasses were found next to the Jagjivan Ram Nagar police station, and residents protested on Monday morning. Vijayawada: Police in Guntur are investigating the brutal stabbing of a stray dog near Chillys restaurant on the Ring Road. The incident occurred late on May 17. According to reports, a man working at the nearby Sitara chicken and mutton stall attacked the pregnant dog with a knife, inflicting fatal injuries. A passerby, Sumanth, witnessed the attack and attempted to intervene but was unsuccessful. Nallapadu circle inspector (CI) Naresh Kumar confirmed that a case has been registered, and officers are actively searching for the suspect. The incident has sparked outrage among animal rights activists and local residents.

Vibrant Riverfront Park Enthralls Visitors in Vijayawada

Vijayawada's riverfront park, inaugurated by CM Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, offers scenic views and recreational amenities, drawing crowds and suggestions for further enhancements

VMC launches anti-larvae drive

Vijayawada : Vijayawada Municipal Corporation (VMC) commissioner Swapnil Dinakar Pundkar instructed the malaria control department officials to commence intensive anti-larvae activities immediately. An action plan was requested, detailing measures such as ML oil spraying, distribution of oil balls, anti-larvae spraying, the use of machines for hand fogging, and thorough cleaning of water stagnation points to prevent mosquito breeding. The VMC commissioner inspected key areas across the city on Saturday as part of an enhanced cleanliness drive and to address public health concerns. The Commissioner visited the K L Rao outfall drain and the CVR flyover, instructing the relevant authorities to ensure these areas are cleaned regularly to maintain the city's aesthetic and hygienic standards. Theinspection continued in the 46th division, where sanitation personnel at Anjaneya Vaagu Centre and Bandar Road were directed to intensify their cleaning efforts. Emphasising the critical need for a clean environment, Pundkar also addressed public health issues related to vector-borne diseases. The Commissioner reiterated the importance of maintaining a clean and healthy environment for all residents of Vijayawada and stressed the timely execution of these directives to significantly improve sanitary conditions and prevent the spread of diseases.

Class 10, 12 advanced supplementary exams to start from May 24

Vijayawada: The advanced supplementary examinations of Class 10 and 12 will start from May 24. Bapatla district revenue officer C.H. Sattibabu instructed officials concerned to conduct these examinations in a flawless manner. District education officer Narayana Rao stated that the Class 10 advanced supplementary examinations would be conducted from May 24 to June 3 at 11 examination centres across the district from 9.30 am to 12.45 pm. He mentioned that a total of 7,384 students across the district would be appearing for these examinations. Bapatla district intermediate education officer Yarrayya stated that the intermediate advanced supplementary examinations would be conducted from May 24 to 31 at 21 examination centres across the district. The examinations will be held in two sessions: from 9 am to 12 pm and from 2.30 pm to 5.30 pm. He mentioned that a total of 9,579 students would be appearing for these examinations. Sattibabu instructed police officials to implement Section 144 at all examination centers. Additionally, he directed the electricity department to ensure an uninterrupted power supply during the exams. He also ordered the officials to maintain a clean environment at the examination centres, provide clean drinking water, and keep first-aid medical kits readily available.

IMD forecasts above-normal rainfall for Andhra Pradesh this year - The Hindu

IMD forecasts above-normal rainfall for Andhra Pradesh this year The Hindu

IMD forecasts above-normal rainfall for Andhra Pradesh this year

More rain is in store for the State from May 22; temperatures may rise from May 25, but we will not see April-like heat, says IMD Amaravati Director

Meet Captain Gopichand, second Indian pilot to fly to space

BENGALURU: Captain Gopichand Thotakura, the second Indian who will travel to space is set to make history on May 19 with the Blue Origin's NS-25 mission, as the company announces dates. Along with six other crew members, the seventh human flight of the New Shepard, Gopi will go beyond the Karman Linethe boundary that separates Earths atmosphere and outer space- and return to Earth. This mission not only signifies India's re-entry into the space race but will also make history with its crew of distinguished astronauts. Gopis flight will be the first foray into space exploration in four decades, following Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma's iconic journey aboard Soyuz T-11 in 1984.The mission will be telecasted live from 7 pm onwards on Blue Orgins website. One of the expedition's highlights will be the astronauts' sending postcards to space on behalf of the Club for the Future, a programme designed to encourage and support the next generation of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) professionals. The astronaut from Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, proud to represent India on this journey said, As the first civilian Indian astronaut embarking on this historic journey with Blue Origin's NS-25 mission, I am honored to represent India on this voyage. India is making a mark in space exploration worldwide. This voyage is a symbol of the spirit of human endeavour and ingenuity on a global scale. I hope this exploration inspires future generations of STEAM professionals as we push the boundaries of space exploration together. Gopi will also be wearing an Indian flag badge as he takes flight on Sunday. Founded by billionaire Jeff Bezos in 2000, this will be Blue Origins 25th flight. It has already launched 31 people to the Krmn line.

AP: Man detained for moving suspiciously at Gannavaram airport

Gannavaram Airport has been moving towards transforming itself into an International Airport. After three-and-a-half years, the prominence given by the government did not yield fruitful results. Gannavaram Airport has been moving towards transforming itself into an International Airport. After three-and-a-half years, the prominence given by the government did not yield fruitful results. Vijayawada: The Andhra Pradesh police on Saturday picked up a person at Gannavaram airport for moving suspiciously during the visit of Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. Sources said the person in question has been identified as Lokesh, who was allegedly found to be sharing details related to foreign trip of Jagan Mohan Reddy to persons known to him. On Tuesday, a special court for CBI cases granted permission to Jagan Mohan Reddy to visit the UK from May 17 to June 1 with family members. The court gave permission in response to a petition filed by Jagan Mohan Reddy seeking permission to visit the UK. He would return to Andhra Pradesh on June 1 three days before the counting of votes on June 4. Jagan Mohan Reddy completed the high-octane election campaign last week highlighting the priorities of YSRCPs government if reelected once again. He also explained in detail the failures of the TDP in implementing the promises made in its manifesto in 2014. Jagan Mohan Reddy wrapped up the election campaign in Pithapuram where the actor-turned-politician Pawan Kalyan contested the elections and the results would be declared on June 4.

200 women participate in mango pickle workshop

The season to prepare the mango pickle avakaya ends with Mrugasira Karthe on June 8. The season to prepare the mango pickle avakaya ends with Mrugasira Karthe on June 8. Vijayawada: In a nostalgic nod to tradition, an Avakaya Pachadi (Mango Pickle) workshop was held in Satyanarayanapuram, Vijayawada, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of 200 participants. Led by experts Sridevi Dupathi and Kanaka Durga, attendees were guided through the intricate process of preparing the iconic Avakaya Pachadi, ensuring an authentic and delicious experience. This event served as a platform for fostering community spirit and preserving cultural traditions.

World Hypertension Day observed

VIJAYAWADA: Marking the World Hypertension Day, Vijayawada Divisional Railway Hospital organised an awareness programme at the New OPD block, Railway Hospital in Vijayawada on Friday. Railway Hospital chief medical superintendent Dr M Sowribala, who spoke on the occasion, said the theme of this years observance was Know Your Numbers, emphasising the importance of monitoring blood pressure regularly. Health & Family Welfare department additional chief medical superintendent Dr M Jaideep briefed the gathering about the importance of World Hypertension Day, its prevalence, and the 2024 theme. Cardiologist at Ramesh Hospitals Dr T Ram Manohar gave a presentation on hypertension causes, symptoms, complications, treatment & prevention measures. He stated that following diet discipline, life style changes, meditation and yoga are the best ways to limit hypertension and stress. Meanwhile, Railway Hospital organised a free health camp, where patients were screened for hypertension, ECG, blood sugar levels, renal function tests and lipid profile tests to assess the comorbidities/complications.

Keep hypertension at bay with good habits: Spl Secy

VIJAYAWADA: Special Chief Secretary (Health, Medical and Family Welfare) MT Krishna Babu pledged, along with the heads, officials, and medical experts of the department, to raise awareness about healthy habits among the people and work to prevent hypertension. He was speaking at a programme held at the headquarters of the department in Mangalagiri. We will educate them on the importance of regular physical exercise, and the consumption of fruits, vegetables, raw grains, and foods that are low in salt, he said. Commissioner of Health and Family Welfare Department Dr S Venkateshwar, Director of Medical Education Dr Narasimham, Director of Health Dr Padmavathy, AD Dr Anil Kumar, and several other officials were present.

Pinnelli disappears afraid of his arrest

VIJAYAWADA: Sitting YSRC MLA Pinnelli Ramakrishna Reddy and his brother Venkatarami Reddy have mysteriously disappeared from their house in Macherla. The legislators security personnel informed their higher officials on Friday morning that Pinnelli had left for an unknown location on Thursday night itself. The MLA and his brother were put under house arrest in the wake of ongoing riots in the constituency after polling on May 13 for Assembly and Lok Sabha elections. Despite the house being under police surveillance, the two brothers allegedly managed to disappear, leaving the security flummoxed. Prohibitory orders under Section 144 of CrPC are in force to thwart any untoward incidents in Palnadu district in the wake of clashes between YSRC and TDP cadres on the polling day, which spilled over to the next day. It is alleged that both Pinelli and his brother left for Hyderabad fearing police arrest in connection with the post-poll violence reported in Karempudi village. So far, 20 people belonging to both the YSRC and TDP have been arrested in connection with post-poll violence in Karempudi. Later in the day, the Macherla MLA clarified to vernacular media that he left for Hyderabad on his own accord along with his brother on some work. He condemned the allegations levelled against him pertaining to his disappearance from his residence and blamed TDP MP candidate Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu, TDP leader Yarapathineni Srinivasa Rao, Palnadu SP Bindu Madhav, and Macherla Circle Inspector Narayana Swamy for the violence reported in the constituency. The TDP leaders and their media channels are spreading rumours that I escaped to Hyderabad fearing police arrest. TDP leaders are behind the violence in the constituency, said Pinnelli. Meanwhile, Palnadu police warned the people and political parties that stringent action would be initiated against those who spread false and unverified news about poll-related violence. Palnadu Additional SP (Admin) R Raghavendra stated that admins of WhatsApp and Telegram groups would be held responsible for sharing false information, provocative posts and trolls. Cases would be registered against them under Section 153A of IPC, he warned.

SIT starts probe into post-poll violence in AP

Vijayawada: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted to probe into post-poll violence in several parts of Andhra Pradesh started its investigation on Saturday. The SIT led by IG Vineet Brijlal will inspect the violence-hit areas and collect field-level information to know the factors that contributed to violence. The SIT is expected to submit its report to the Election Commission of India (ECI) either on May 19 or 20. Following instructions from ECI, Andhra Pradesh set up SIT to probe into the violence after completion of voting on May 13. After many deliberations, the State government constituted SIT headed by Brijlal. To avoid unnecessary criticism from political parties, the government selected non-controversial officers posted in Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and State Intelligence Bureau (SIB) and included them in SIT for a comprehensive probe. The SIT members would be interacting with investigating officers (IOs) in the trouble prone areas in Palnadu, Narsaraopet, Chandragiri in Tirupati and Tadipatri in Anantapur district to gather information on the status of cases that were booked after violence. They might also ask the IOs to include more Sections in addition to the existing provisions of Indian Penal Code (IPC) invoked against those involved in the violence. Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary KS Jawahar Reddy and Director-General of Police Harish Kumar Gupta appeared before the ECI in New Delhi on Thursday after getting summons to them seeking an explanation on violence. The ECI then asked them to set up SIT to probe into the violence incidents in the State.

Tadipatri riot: YSRC seeks suspension of ASP, DIG

VIJAYAWADA: In a letter addressed to the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), the YSRC has sought suspension of Anantapur ASP and Anantapur Range DIG, as well as the transfer of Guntur Range IG for their failure to prevent post-poll violence. YSRC State general secretary Lella Appi Reddy, accompanied by sitting Vijayawada Central MLA Malladi Vishnu Vardhan, highlighted the urgent need for decisive action following the grave incidents that undermined the democratic process in Tadipatri. They mentioned the violent attacks, targeting Kethireddy Pedda Reddy, MLA of Tadipatri and YSRC candidate. Pedda Reddy and his supporters were brutally assaulted by individuals allegedly owing allegiance to the TDP and JC Diwakar Reddy. Despite high voter turnout, TDP elements unleashed violent attacks to intimidate voters, disrupt voting, tamper with EVMs and assault YSRC agents. The police, despite complaints, remained inactive. The following day, Pedda Reddy was attacked again when he visited an injured follower, and his house was attacked with stones and petrol bombs, with no police intervention, they stated. The YSRC leaders also accused Anantapur ASP and Anantapur DIG of destroying crucial CCTV footage in Pedda Reddys residence. Additionally, they requested the transfer of Guntur Range IG in the wake of the compromised integrity of the electoral process. The YSRC emphasised the need for further decisive action by the Election Commission to ensure fair elections as the counting date of June 4 is fast approaching, they said.

Moderate rains, thunderstorms likely in Andhra Pradesh

VIJAYAWADA: Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) forecasted light to moderate rains accompanied by thunderstorms in the State for the next four days due to formation of gyration over Rayalaseema and adjoining North Tamil Nadu regions, with trough extending from South Chattisgarh and Comorin regions. In a release on Friday, APSDMA managing director Ronanki Kurmanath stated that light to moderate rains with scattered thundershowers are likely in Alluri Sitarama Raju, Prakasam, Nellore, Kurnool, Nandyal, Anantapur, Sri Sathya Sai, YSR, Annamaiah, Chittoor, and Tirupati districts in the coming four days. Isolated parts of Parvathipuram Manyam, East Godavari, West Godavari, Konaseema, Eluru, Krishna, NTR, Guntur, Palnadu, and Bapatla districts are likely to experience light rain with thundershowers. He further advised the people to be alert during thunderstorms and urged farmers working in fields, agricultural labourers and cattle rearers to not to stay under trees and in open places. Meanwhile, several parts of Andhra Pradesh have experienced light to moderate rainfall on Friday. Highest rainfall of 131.2 mm was recorded in Amruthalur mandal of Bapatla district, followed by 96.4 mm in T Sunduru, and 67 mm in Chebrolu of Guntur district, 78 mm in Bethamcherla of Nandyal district, 60 mm in Gandlapenta of Annamayya district, 50.7 mm in Madakasira of Chittoor district, 50.7 mm in Pamuru of Prakasam district, and 43.7 mm in Tanakallu of Sri Sathya Sai district. The average rainfall of 28 mm in Bapatla district, 21.5 mm in Guntur district, 18.9 mm in Krishna district, 13 mm in Kurnool district, and 9.3 mm in Prakasam district were recorded. APSDMA also reported that no heatwave-like conditions were reported across Andhra Pradesh on Friday. It predicted that six mandala and 21 mandals across the State will reel under heatwave on Saturday and Sunday respectively.

Sand-laden lorries must be covered properly: Andhra Pradesh HC

VIJAYAWADA: The Andhra Pradesh High Court has issued orders making it mandatory for the vehicles transporting sand to cover it with a tarpaulin. The bench of Chief Justice Dhiraj Singh Thakur and Justice Rao Raghunandan Rao heard petitions seeking the courts intervention to stop illegal mining of sand in the State, and issued the orders recently. While hearing the petitions, the bench said the National Green Tribunal has taken cognisance of the matter, issued several orders and even penalised those violating the rules. The bench said the Apex court is also hearing petitions regarding illegal sand mining. Advocate General S Sriram and amicus curiae Norma Alvaris also informed the court that the matter could be left to the NGT as it is seized of the matter. The bench issued orders making covering of the sand with tarpaulin mandatory in view of the pollution, and also the inconvenience caused to motorists during transportation of sand. The bench said it would decide the penalty for violation of its orders, and asked the AG to give suggestions in this regard. The bench also said it would decide on the timings during which sand can be transported in its next hearing, and posted the matter to July 31.

YSRC will sweep elections from Kuppam to Itchapuram: Sajjala

VIJAYAWADA: YSRC general secretary Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy has asserted that the party will sweep the elections from Kuppam in Chittoor district to Itchapuram in Srikakulam. The YSRCs assertion that it will come back to power is confidence and not over-confidence, he said. Speaking to reporters on Friday, Sajjala asserted that every household in the State has benefitted by the YS Jagan Mohan Reddy government and whoever has benefitted has stood by Jagan. The long queues at polling stations clearly show that people are with Jagan, he said. We are going to win more seats than what we bagged in 2019, he claimed. Sajjala alleged that TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu lacked confidence on his own agenda and that was why he did not publicise his own Super Six schemes. Instead, Naidu chose to attack Jagan personally, raised the YS Vivekananda Reddy murder case and finally propagated against the Land Titling Act. The TDP has supported the Land Titling Act on the floor of the Assembly but had propagated against it and terrorised the people ahead of elections, he said. Sajjala alleged that the TDP and BJP State chief Daggubati Purandeswari had connived and got officials transferred before the elections. Violence broke out in the districts where the officials were transferred, he maintained. The Election Commission of India has now transferred them once again after violence broke out in the State. The ECI should have thought that the officials suggested by the TDP-BJP are the agents of the Opposition parties, he said. Sajjala decried the attack on Tadipatri MLA Kethireddy Pedda Reddys residence and damage of CCTVs and furniture. We will lodge a complaint with the Election Commission of India over the incident, he said. Expressing hope that there would not be any lapses in the counting process, Sajjala urged the ECI to act impartially. At least now, the ECI should rectify its mistakes and ensure that the counting process goes off smoothly, he said.

Andhra Pradesh: DGP constitutes SIT to probe poll violence

VIJAYAWADA: On the directions of the Election Commission of India (ECI), Director General of Police (DGP) Harish Kumar Gupta on Friday issued orders to constitute a Special Investigation Team (SIT), which will be headed by Inspector General of Police (IG) Vineet Brijlal. The 13-member SIT will investigate cases pertaining to the incidents of poll-related violence reported in parts of the State, affecting the law and order situation particularly in Palnadu, Anantapur, and Tirupati districts. Officers who will be a part of the SIT are: ACB SP Rama Devi, ACB additional SP Sowmyalatha, Srikakulam ACB DSP Ramana Murthy, CID DSP P Srinivasulu, Ongole ACB DSP Valluri Srinivasa Rao, Tirupati ACB DSP Ravi Manohara Chary, inspectors V Bhushanam, K Venkat Rao, Rama Krishna, Srinivas, Moin, N Prabhakar and Siva Prasad. The order stated that the SIT chief can co-opt any officer or legal adviser as per the situation. It further mentioned that the SIT will supervise the investigation being conducted by jurisdictional investigation officers concerned in the cases and will recommend additional appropriate sections of law in each case to be updated wherever needed. It will also make recommendations to get fresh FIRs registered. Vineet Brijlal was asked to submit the compliance report to the Election Commission in two days.

Central intelligence dept asks Andhra Pradesh government to step up vigil for a fortnight from June 4

VIJAYAWADA: In the wake of the post-poll violence that rocked parts of the State, the Central intelligence department has reportedly asked the State government to be on high alert as it apprehends disruption of law and order in the State on the day of counting (June 4). The intelligence agencies reportedly asked the government to remain alert at least for two weeks after the counting and step up security in all problematic locations in the State. Following the post-poll violence reported at various places in the State, the Central intelligence wing reportedly collected crucial information pertaining to the law and order situation in the State and apprised the government. According to sources, personnel of the Central intelligence department have been stationed at various places in the State for the past two months to monitor the law and order situation. In a report, the officials mentioned the clashes in Palnadu, Jammalamadugu and Anantapur. The officials further reported that more than 20 Assembly constituencies and two Parliament segments are most prone to violence on the day of counting and the following few days, sources said. They added the intelligence agency has asked the State official machinery to observe the trends that emerge after counting starts and act accordingly. After the alert was issued, Chief Secretary KS Jawahar Reddy and DGP Harish Kumar Gupta convened a meeting and directed all district collectors and SPs to step up vigil in their respective regions with the help of Central Armed Police Forces and by making additional deployments. The officials were instructed to identify other problematic locations immediately and keep a tab on suspected trouble-mongers to prevent untoward incidents. Jawahar Reddy warned of stringent action against errant officials if they fail to comply with the ECI and Central intelligence guidelines.

VMC cleaning city ahead of rains

BBMP clearing garbage accumulated after the Dasara celebrations in city market in Bengaluru, on Saturday (Photo: DC) BBMP clearing garbage accumulated after the Dasara celebrations in city market in Bengaluru, on Saturday (Photo: DC) VIJAYAWADA: Ahead of the rainy season, Vijayawada Municipal Corporation (VMC) has taken up a drive to clean up drains, canals and roads, so that rain water can flow out smoothly from the city. In this regard, VMC commissioner Swapnil Dinkar Pundkar inspected the citys cleaning operations in several key areas, including Bandar Road, Benz Circle, Ramavarappadu, Eluru Road, Old Government Hospital Road, and GS Raju Road. He reviewed operations at the Excel garbage transfer plant in Ajit Singh Nagar, emphasising the need for efficient waste management. Pundkar emphasised on the need to continue rigorous sanitation practices during the rainy season, like prompt removal of waste on roads and cleaning of canals, so that water does not stagnate. This would check mosquito breeding and other health hazards, he remarked.

255 held in Bapatla district for poll violence

VIJAYAWADA: Bapatla SP Vakul Jindal said 36 cases have been registered and 255 persons arrested following the poll violence in the district on May 13. He underlined that police pickets are being set up in problematic villages to prevent any untoward incidents. Police are patrolling these areas to raise awareness among people about the legal consequences they may face in case they engage in any violent activities. The SP said surveillance is being maintained on individuals likely to cause disturbances, miscreants and rowdy-sheeters. He warned that strict action will be taken against anyone disrupting law and order in the district.

Andhra Pradesh CM Jagan Mohan Reddy leaves for foreign tour

Vijayawada: Four days after simultaneous elections to the Andhra Pradesh Assembly and Lok Sabha, Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy along with his family left for a foreign tour on Friday night. He was seen off at the Gannavaram airport by Ministers Jogi Ramesh and Kottu Satyanarayana, MP Nandigama Suresh, Government Whips Ch. Bhaskar 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 .

SC Stays Kadapa District Court Order Imposing Curbs on Making Comments on Viveka Murder

Supreme Court of India (Photo: PTI) Supreme Court of India (Photo: PTI) Vijayawada: The Supreme Court on Friday stayed the order issued by the district court in Kadapa in AP, imposing curbs on AP Congress chief Y.S. Sharmila and others, for making comments on the murder of former minister Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy. A two-judge bench comprising Justices Bhushan Ramakrishna Gavai and Sandeep Mehta held the hearing on the plea of Sharmila in New Delhi on Friday, challenging the order of the AP High Court which had disposed the district courts order given on April 16. Sharmilas counsel Gaurav Agarwal prayed for the issue of a stay order. The court observed that the district court even without providing any opportunity for being heard to the defendants, including Sharmila, had passed the order of injunction which was having serious ramifications. It opined that the injunction would curtail the rights of the freedom of speech and expression of the defendant and expressed its inclination to stay the order of Kadapa court. It posted the next hearing of the matter after summer vacation.

After Rigorous Campaign, CM Jagan Mohan Reddy Takes a Break Abroad, Back on June 1

VIJAYAWADA : Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy flew abroad on Friday night by a special flight on a holiday after a hectic five-month campaign in support of his YSRC candidates.. He will return to Vijayawada on June 1, ahead of June 4, when results of Assembly and Parliament elections throughout the country are scheduled to be declared. The Chief Minister is being accompanied by his spouse Y.S. Bharathi and daughters Harsha and Varsha. Their first halt will be London. The family will later visit France and Switzerland. Jagan Mohan Reddy had been YSRC star campaigner in the months long campaign. Y.S. Bharathi also campaigned in the Pulivendula Assembly constituency, from where the Chief Minister contested. Incidentally, a day ahead of leaving on his foreign tour, Jagan interacted with a team of the IPAC, which advised YSRC on its political strategy during the 2024 elections.

Employees ask EC to give equal pay to staff on poll duties

After the government notified the law hiking the salary of Supreme Court and high court judges on January 25, the Election Commission adopted the same, officials in the poll panel said. After the government notified the law hiking the salary of Supreme Court and high court judges on January 25, the Election Commission adopted the same, officials in the poll panel said. Vijayawada: Alleging disparity in the remunerations paid to employees drafted for election duties in Andhra Pradesh, the Sri Krishna Devaraya employees JAC has urged the Election Commission to ensure equal remuneration to all such staff. The employee JAC union leader S Rama Krishna said the presiding officers (POs) in some regions were given Rs 1,750 as remuneration while in some other areas, the POs were paid Rs 1,500. Similarly, the OPOs were paid Rs 1,300 to Rs 900. Highlighting the significant difference in the remunerations paid to AP employees compared to Telangana staff for the elections, the JAC union leader said those who functioned as POs, OPOs and BLOs in Telangana were paid Rs 3,150, Rs 1,750 and Rs 600 respectively. He urged EC to sanction surrender leave to the teachers who took part in the election duties during the summer holidays and issue duty certificates to employees who were not given this at the reception centres by the Returning Officers (ROs) due to work pressure. Additionally, the JAC requested the EC to make a provision for the employees who did not cast their postal ballot votes and allow them to cast their postal ballots till June 3.

Silence, cautious optimism at YSRC and TD offices

Vijayawada: The jam-packed offices of the ruling YSR Congress and the opposition Telugu Desam during the high-pitched poll campaign season here now wear a mostly deserted look. On Friday, only a few leaders were seen around in the city. At a party office, a couple of leaders were seen sitting with their cadre analysing the polling trends and awaiting the results, in a state of extreme suspense. Many leaders have disappeared as they required a well-earned rest and relaxation after the hard work they put in on the campaign front. Some local leaders, it seemed, were suddenly flush with cash and were chilling out. Silence prevails at the party offices for most part. After three months of arduous work, the tired party leaders and cadres are now resting at their homes or have left for fancy locations. Activities would resume on June 4, when the counting of votes would take place, said YSRC leader Sk Abdul Sattar. Sitting on a chair, all alone, at the YSRC party office near Panja Centre, Abdul Sattar, brother of the YSRCP West MLA candidate Sk Asif, prophesied, We are winning the West constituency with a margin of 10,000 votes and the YSRC will return to power by winning 110 seats. The TD office in the central assembly constituency near the house of its assembly candidate Bonda Uma wore a similar look with vacant hall and chairs, and the doors shut from inside. Two office staff were seen around. We are waiting for a festive atmosphere at the party office on June 4. TD leaders and cadres will be dancing to the beats of TD songs celebrating our victory, beamed a Naidu-fan sitting outside the party office.

NIA chargesheets Mumbai Man in Indian Navy espionage case

The NIA charge sheeted Amaan Salim Shaikh for activating SIM cards used by Pakistani Intelligence officers. The case was registered by the Vijayawada cell. Shaikh worked for suspected Pakistani agent Usman to further the anti-India conspiracy. Shaikh also received money from suspected Pakistani operatives through crypto channels. Khan and Alven, both Pakistani nationals, are absconding.

ECI finally releases APs poll percentage

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar. (PTI File Image) Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar. (PTI File Image) Vijayawada: Election Commission of India has finally released details of poll percentage recorded in Andhra Pradesh, which witnessed polling in its 175 assembly and 25 parliamentary constituencies on May 13. According to the figures released by ECI on Friday, AP has registered the highest poll percentage of 81.86 in the country, 80.66 per cent through EVMs and 1.2 per cent through postal ballots. This is the highest poll percentage recorded in a state during the last four phases of polling. The poll percentages released Lok Sabha constituency-wise are Amalapuram (SC) 83.85, Anakapalle 82.03, Anantapur 80.51, Araku (ST) 73.68, Bapatla (SC)- 85.48, Chittoor (SC) 85.77, Eluru 83.68, Guntur 78.81, Hindupur 84.79, Kadapa 79.57, Kakinada 80.30, Kurnool 76.80, Machilipatnam 84.05, Nandyal 80.61, Narasapur 82.59, Narasaraopet 85.65, Nellore 79.05, Ongole 87.06, Rajahmundry 80.93, Rajampet 79.09, Srikakulam 74.43, Tirupati 79.10, Vijayawada 79.37, Visakhapatnam 71.11 and Vizianagaram 81.05. Thus, among all the parliamentary constituencies of Andhra Pradesh, Ongole recorded the highest 87.06 per cent polling, while Visakhapatnam registered the lowest polling percentage of 71.11.

APs e-office upgrade deferred

Vijayawada: The AP government has deferred the proposed upgrade of e-office the application which deals with various aspects of administration in Andhra Pradesh has been deferred as per directive from the Election Commission of India (ECI). The upgrade had been scheduled from May 17 to May 25 as per the directive of MeitY (Ministry of electronics and information technology) and the NIC (National Informatics Centre). AP chief electoral officer Mukesh Kumar Meena reportedly got in touch with officials of the National Informatics Centre and advised them to defer the planned upgradation. Telugu Desam chief N. Chandrababu Naidu had addressed a letter to Governor S. Abdul Nazeer on Thursday objecting to the proposed upgradation of e-office, contending that it will be a violation of the Model Code of Conduct. Naidu contended that once the process of upgradation starts, services of the e-office application would not be available to the CMO, CS office, departments of the secretariat and heads of departments from May 17 to May 25. He feared that this period could be utilised to delete important files and documents related to the YSRC governments decisions involving omissions and commissions, irregularities and deviations, and diversions of the resources.

All Eyes on Election Results in Star Constituencies

VIJAYAWADA: All eyes are set on the election results of the star Assembly and Parliament constituencies in Andhra Pradesh, where top party leaders are testing their luck. These mainly include Chief Minister and YSRC chief Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, Opposition leader and Telugu Desam chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu, Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan and BJP state president Daggubati Purandeswari. Analysts and punters are engaged in a lot of speculations on the margins, wins and defeats of the top leaders. The total voting percentage in Pulivendula Assembly constituency where the Chief Minister is contesting was 81.34. There were 2,29,687 voters in there, out of which 1,86,833 cast their votes. Many believe it would be a cakewalk for Jagan Mohan Reddy in Pulivendula due to his past and present involvement with the constituency and performance as CM. Jagan Mohan Reddy won Pulivendula with a majority of 90,110 votes in the 2019 elections. The YSRC expects this to cross one lakh this time, while the Opposition hopes to reduce the majority. In Kuppam, the home constituency of Chandrababu Naidu, the total voters were 2,25,775. The voting percentage registered in the present election is 89.88. Some 1,01,306 males and 1,01,608 females voted. The Chief Minister along with leaders like Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy concentrated on the Kuppam Assembly constituency for the past three years. Their efforts yielded good results as the YSRC registered a clean sweep in the local body and municipal elections. This time, Jagan Mohan Reddy fielded a young K.R.J. Bharath against stalwart Chandrababu Naidu. Chandrababu, who never stayed in Kuppam, did not conduct a vast campaign during the earlier elections but this time, he stayed in Kuppam with his wife Bhuvaneswari to reassure the voters that he was available to them. He is constructing a house there to prove a point. Naidu reached the constituency half a dozen times during the election campaign. In Managalagiri, Nara Lokesh worked a lot, aiming to register a win this time. The YSRC fielded a woman candidate Murugudu Lavanya, who belongs to a prominent political family that is familiar with the Mangalagiri people. The constituency has 2,92,432 voters, of which 1,21,038 men and 1,29,697 women cast their votes, registering a 85.74 per cent polling this time. Lokesh faced defeat in the 2019 polls at the hands of Alla Ramakrishna Reddy. The YSRC is banking on BC votes, and aims to defeat Lokesh with support from the weavers community that is dominative in Mangalagiri. The results of the Pithapuram Assembly segment, from where Jana Sena president and cine actor Pawan Kalyan contested, are also awaited with a lot of eagerness. In the 2019 elections, Pawan Kalyan lost from two constituencies. This time, he pressed huge numbers of leaders and cadres in Pithapuram to avert another disaster. There are 2,36,409 voters in Pithapuram, of which 1,03,370 males and 1,01,438 females cast their votes, registering a 86.63 per cent polling. The YSRC fielded a strong woman candidate, Vanga Geetha, who gave a tough fight to Pawan. State BJP president Daggubati Purandeswari entered the fray in Rajamahendravaram LS constituency against YSRC aspirant Guduri Srinivas this time. Interestingly, Congress senior leader Gidugu Rudra Raju was also in the fray there. The total voters are 16,23,149 in Rajamahendravaram LS, of which 6,47,491 males and 6,66,081 females cast their votes, registering 80.93 per cent polling. Curiously, gamblers and punters are investing huge sums vis-a-vis the results in these star Assembly and Parliament constituencies.

AP Woman Saraswati Malluvalasa Wins CCI's Woman Exemplar Award

VIJAYAWADA: The CII Foundation has honoured a woman social activist from Andhra Pradesh and some others with its Woman Exemplar Award 2024 at the CII Annual Business Summit held in New Delhi on Friday. Saraswati Malluvalasa from Andhra Pradesh won the award for her Millet Sisters initiative among small-scale women farmers. The award recognises grassroots women leaders from rural and resource-scarce areas who have faced poverty and social or gender-based discrimination but emerged as community leaders with their firm resolve to effect social change. Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the award to the following women leaders: Ranjita Pawar from Osmanabad, Maharashtra, in the Education category; Rumi Perween from Kishanganj, Bihar, in the Health category; and Saraswathi Malluvalasa from Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh, in the Micro-enterprise category. Each winner received a trophy, a certificate, and a cash award of `3 lakh. Over 300 nominations were received from across India for the 19th edition of the award. Some 16 finalists were identified. Saraswathi Malluvalasa, drawing from her own experience with domestic violence and gender discrimination, noticed a correlation between food insecurity, economic dependence and violence against women. She established the Millet Sisters initiative, a network of small-scale women farmers, encouraging them to work together to ensure food security through livelihood enhancement. This helped improved the income of over 20,000 women. Her work exemplified the five E's for women's empowerment: Education, Equality, Employment, Economic Development, and Empowerment, the CCI citation noted. B Srinivas Sathish, head of CII Andhra Pradesh, said the CII Foundation has been identifying, recognising and empowering grassroots women leaders through its Woman Exemplar Program to promote women-led development. The programme also helps build their capacity through training and mentoring, and promotes women on various platforms to help amplify their work and social impact.

YSRC Complains to EC, Seeks Transfer and Suspension of Police Officials

VIJAYAWADA: The YSRC has lodged two complaints with the Election Commission, seeking transfer of the Guntur range IG and suspension of Anantapur DIG and Anantapur ASP with immediate effect. These officials colluded with the Telugu Desam, the YSRC alleged, and said this was necessary to restore normalcy in the respective regions that faced post-poll clashes. YSRC leaders led by MLA Malladi Vishnu, MLC Lella Appi Reddy, former minister Kishore Babu etc submitted their complaints to CEO, Mukesh Kumar Meena here on Friday. They expressed grave concern over the deterioration in the law and order situation during the polls in Palnadu region. Despite the significant steps already taken by the EC, including the suspension and transfer of several key officials, the role and responsibility of the Guntur Range IG, Sarvashresth Tripathi, in these events cannot be overlooked, they stressed. They added, In view of the escalation in violence and an apparent failure to maintain law and order, we request the immediate transfer of IG Sarvashresth Tripathi and the appointment of an efficient officer to restore public confidence. This is especially important as we approach the counting date of June 4. The YSRC leaders alleged that Tripathi failed to control law and order and supported TD. They said there was brutal treatment of YSRC activists including women and forcible arrests from their homes. They were beaten up and tortured at police stations, it was alleged. The leaders cited the violence in the Palnadu region. Especially in constituencies like Macherla, Sattenapalli, Narasaraopet and Gurajala, TD supporters engaged in violence and booth capturing, despite these areas falling within a 25km distance from the IG's range. These incidents showed the failure of Tripathi. They demanded the transfer of the IG, along with the deployment of additional forces, saying that these would help in preventing further violence and ensuring a fair counting process on June 4. In the second complaint, the YSRC leaders sought ECs attention and decisive action in response to the recent events that undermined the democratic process in the Tadipatri region during the polls. They cited the incident in which Kethireddy Pedda Reddy, the MLA of Tadipatri and a YSRC candidate, was attacked on the day of polling. His convoy was halted, forcing him to proceed on foot. He and his supporters were pelted with stones by goons affiliated to the Telugu Desam and JC Diwakar Reddy. They said that election-day violence, post-election day attacks, police misconduct, and destruction of CCTV footage were done at the behest of the Anantapur ASP, Ramakrishna. The YSRC leaders demanded that EC suspend the ASP and the deputy IG of police of Anantapur Range immediately. Appointment of efficient officers is essential to restore public confidence and uphold the sanctity of our democratic process, the complaint stated.

SCR Records Heaviest Footfall in Four Days

Hyderabad: A record 4.3 lakh unreserved passengers travelled from the city to different destinations from Secunderabad, Hyderabad, Kacheguda and Lingampally railway stations from May 9 to 12. According to officials from South Central Railway (SCR), a daily average of 1.05 lakh passengers travelled in general coaches, which is 52 per cent higher than the daily average of 68,800 unreserved passengers. In order to cater to the rush because of summer vacations, Lok Sabha elections and the weekend rush, SCR introduced more than 60 additional special trains between the two Telugu states from May 9 to 15. The special trains from the twin cities to Kakinada, Visakhapatnam, Narsapur, Vijayawada, Nagersol and Machilipatnam, recorded more than 100 per cent occupancy. Special trains were also run to Khurda Road, Berhampur, Sambalpur and Cuttack (All Odisha), Bengaluru, Danapur, Gorakhpur, Agartala, Udaipur, Santragachi, Kollam, Jaipur and Rajkot. Around 41 additional coaches, including AC III tier, sleeper class and general second class coaches were added to the 40 regular trains to accommodate the additional rush of waitlisted passengers, said SCR officials.

State will rectify 17 black spots on Vijayawada NH, says Komatireddy Venkat Reddy

Hyderabad :Seventeen black spots have been identified on the Hyderabad-Vijayawada highway that witnessed repeated fatalities in road accidents and the state government will take measures to prevent accidents, said roads and buildings minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy. He was speaking at a review meeting at the Secretariat on Friday on the condition of roads and highways, progress of work on road and highway projects and the Hyderabad Regional Ring Road (RRR) project, with senior officials of the R&B department. The minister directed officials to set up signboards at these accident-prone areas on the Hyderabad-Vijayawada highway, warning drivers about the danger spots. He asked officials to take measures to prevent overspeeding, widen the highway to six-lane road wherever necessary, carry out improvement of junctions, construction of VUPs (vehicle under passes), setting up of service roads on either side of the highway. Venkat Reddy said the government is aiming to make the highways 'accident-free' and that the RRR, once completd, will turn out to be a super game changer for Telangana state. The Congress government constructed the Outer Ring Road (ORR) project in 2012 which proved to be a gamechanger for Hyderabad. The Congress government will now construct RRR project, which will turn out to be a super game changer for Telangana, Venkat Reddy stated. He asked officials to take steps to float RRR tenders by July this year and ensure project completion by 2028. The overall project is expected to be completed at a cost of around Rs 30,000 crore, he said. The 340-km RRR project is aimed at reducing the traffic flow in the city and promoting urban satellite centres along the road. It will be encircling the state capital, Hyderabad, he added.

NIA Files Chargesheet Against Amaan Salim Shaikh: Key Figure in Visakhapatnam Espionage Case

Mumbai: T he National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a chargesheet against Amaan Salim Shaikh, a key figure in the Visakhapatnam espionage case, involving the leakage of classified defense information through a Pakistani Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) spying network. Shaikh, a resident of Mumbai, Maharashtra, was formally charged in the NIA Special Court, Visakhapatnam, under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P) Act]. Shaikh is a crucial suspect in the conspiracy orchestrated by Pakistani agents to honey trap Indian Navy personnel and extract sensitive information about India's defense establishments. The investigation by the NIA revealed that Shaikh played a significant role in this espionage network, operating under the direction of a suspected Pakistani agent named Usman. Additionally, Shaikh allegedly received funds from other suspected Pakistani operatives, including Meer Balaj Khan and Alven, along with several other individuals, through cryptocurrency channels. These funds were purportedly used to execute tasks assigned by the Pakistani intelligence operatives. The NIA assumed control of the investigation from the Counter Intelligence Cell, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, on June 5, 2023. Previously, on November 6, 2023, the NIA had chargesheeted two other individuals in connection with this case. Further investigations are ongoing. EC Issues Notice to BJP Candidate Abhijit Gangopadhyay for Remarks Against Mamata Banerjee Sarah Moin's Remarkable ICSE Success Despite Multiple Disabilities Swati Maliwal Case: FM Sitharaman Urges Kejriwal to Speak Out and Apologize

Process of setting up SIT to probe poll violence in AP initiated

Vijayawada: The Andhra Pradesh government is in the process of setting up a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe into the violence that took place in several parts of the State after completion of voting on May 13. Following instructions given to the Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary KS Jawahar Reddy and Director-General of Police Harish Kumar Gupta after they appeared before the Election Commission of India (ECI) in New Delhi on Thursday, the process of setting up SIT has been initiated. Both the Chief Secretary and Director-General of Police, who appeared before the ECI in response to summons issued to them, started the process. They in consultation with other senior officials are identifying the officers to be included in the SIT for conducting a detailed probe into the violent incidents. The ECI, which initiated action against several officers on charge of dereliction of duties during elections, asked the Chief Secretary and Director-General of Police to submit a report on the violence incidents in two days. The ECI took a serious notice of the violent incidents in Narasaraopet, Palnadu, Chandragiri in Tirupati, Tadipatri and other areas during and after polling in Andhra Pradesh from May 13. Tense situation continued to prevail in several parts of violence affected areas in the State though the police department deployed additional police forces to prevent any untoward incident. Since May 13, the leaders from YSRCP and TDP have been trading charges against each other, holding responsible for these incidents. The police department has decided to enhance security not only in trouble-prone areas but also other sensitive places during counting of votes on June 4, based on intelligence reports.

Vijayawada Doctor's Timely CPR Saves Young Boy's Life

Vijayawada: A young boy's life was saved thanks to the swift action of a doctor who witnessed the incident. Six-year-old boy suffered an electric shock and lost consciousness. His parents rushed him to the nearest hospital. Fortunately, Dr. Nannapuneni Ravali, who happened to be in the vicinity, noticed the commotion. Dr. Ravali, immediately began performing CPR on the boy. The doctor's life-saving efforts continued for seven long minutes before the boy regained consciousness. The child was then shifted to a private hospital for further treatment. After being kept under observation for 24 hours, he made a full recovery and was discharged. Reports indicate the boy is now in good health. The incident took place on May 5 at Ayyappanagar in Vijayawada.

NIA chargesheets one more in Pak-led Indian navy spying case related to Vizag

Hyderabad: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) chargesheeted one more person in the Indian Navy spying case involving Pakistani intelligence operatives. Amaan Salim Shaikh is a key accused in the case RC-02/2023/NIA/HYD, involving a conspiracy by Pakistan agents to honey trap Indian navy personnel to gather secret information regarding the defence establishments. The anti-terror agency, which filed a supplementary chargesheet in NIA Special Court, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, has charged Amaan, a resident of Mumbai (Maharashtra), under various sections of IPC and UA(P) Act. NIA, which took over the case on 5th June 2023, found during investigation that Amaan was working for a suspected Pakistani agent, Usman, to further the anti-India conspiracy. He was also receiving money from other suspected Pakistani operatives, including Meer Balaj Khan, Alven and certain other individuals, through crypto channels for completing tasks assigned by the Pakistani intelligence operatives. NIA had earlier, on November 6, 2023, chargesheeted two accused persons in the case. Further investigations in the case, initially registered at Counter Intelligence Cell police station in Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh, are continuing.

Stop e-office upgradation, Chandrababu Naidu urges Governor

VIJAYAWADA: TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday appealed to Governor S Abdul Nazeer to initiate immediate measures to stop the process of upgradation of e-office of the State government. In a letter addressed to the Governor on Thursday, copies of which were sent to the Chief Election Commissioner, Chief Electoral Officer, Chief Secretary, Special Chief Secretary of Finance Department and Principal Secretary of General Administration Department, the TDP chief stated that the government is planning to upgrade the existing e-office version ostensibly under the instructions of the Union Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the Network Interface Controller (NIC), New Delhi. In the process the services of e-office application are not available for the Chief Ministers Office (CMO), Chief Secretarys office, various wings of the State Secretariat and Heads of Departments (HoDs) from May 17 to 25, he pointed out. The political parties have expressed apprehensions that the timing of the exercise is fraught with possible mischief of deleting the important files and documents relating to the decisions taken by this government involving omissions, commissions, irregularities, deviations, and diversion of resources to favour contractors and some YSRC leaders, he said. Pointing out that the government, violating the regular practice, has not been uploading the GOs on its website, particularly some GOs relating to major decisions, thus keeping the crucial decisions under wraps, the TDP chief informed the Governor that there is no transparency in the administration, and cases are being foisted against those who are raising their voice against the irregularities in the governance. Naidu urged the Governor to direct the Chief Secretary to defer the e-office upgradation till the new government is formed. The TDP chief also mentioned that he has information that certain crucial records are being destroyed or shifted from the offices, and cited the instances where some CBCID records were burnt without following the due procedure for destroying government records. We have already lodged a complaint with the CEO in this regard, and we are yet to get a response from the CEO, he said.

MLC Janga Krishna Murthy disqualified after Andhra Pradesh government Whips petition

VIJAYAWADA: MLC Janga Krishna Murthy has been disqualified as the Member of Legislative Council following his rebellion against the YSRC leadership. The YSRC BC cell president aspired for MLA ticket, but was denied the same. Following this, Janga extended his support to the TDP, attracting the ire of YSRC leadership, which complained to the Council Chairman against him. As per the Gazette notification issued on May 15, based on the petition filed by Government Whip and MLC Lella Appi Reddy, Council Chairman Koyye Moshenu Raju issued orders disqualifying Janga as an MLC. In his petition filed on April 8, Appi Reddy said Janga was elected as an MLC under the MLAs quota in 2019. On February 12, 2024, Janga in an interview made derogatory and demeaning remarks against the YSRC leadership and stated that it was not committed to the uplift of BCs, SCs and STs as claimed. Later, he joined the TDP at Naidus meeting in Sattenapalle on April 6, and made certain derogatory comments on Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, the Whip stated. Based on the petition, notices were served on Janga and reminders were issued. He finally responded on May 1 and submitted his written preliminary comments on the averments made in the petition and challenged it on technical grounds. He was directed to appear before the Council Chairman at 11:30 am on May 14. However, Janga failed to appear before the Chairman. After thorough examination of the petition and respondents reply, the Council Chairman disqualified Janga as an MLC.

Robust measures in place to prevent dengue in Andhra says Special Chief Secretary

VIJAYAWADA: Special Chief Secretary (Health, Medical and Family Welfare) MT Krishna Babu announced that the Department of Health is implementing robust measures to prevent dengue in the State. On the occasion of National Dengue Day, he unveiled posters to create awareness among the public on dengue disease under the auspices of the department at headquarters in Mangalagiri on Thursday. Addressing the gathering, he emphasised the importance of collecting blood samples from suspected dengue fever cases at all government hospitals and Aarogyasri network hospitals. These samples should be tested at the 54 dengue diagnosis centres across the State to facilitate appropriate treatment and preventive measures. Commissioner of Health and Family Welfare Department, Dr S Venkateshwar stressed the need to raise public awareness about mosquito-borne diseases, especially with the approaching rainy season. He highlighted the importance of utilising various media platforms to educate the public about preventive measures against Dengue and other vector-borne diseases. Director of Public Health and Family Welfare Dr Padmavathi, Additional Director of Disease Control Programme Dr Subramanyeswari, National Health Mission State Programme Manager Dr Dumpala Venkata Ravi Kiran, and NVBDCP staff were present. Posters unveiled On the occasion of National Dengue Day, MT Krishna Babu unveiled posters to create awareness among the public on dengue disease under the auspices of the Health Department

Womens mandate will ensure YSRC win: Malladi Vishnu

VIJAYAWADA: The rise in participation of women in the polling process is driven by the YSRC prioritising their welfare across social and economic domains, said party Vijayawada president and Central MLA Malladi Vishnu. Appreciating women for participating in the polling process in large numbers, he noted that the significant role played by women will bring the party back to power. He asserted that women waiting in queues till late hours to exercise their franchise underscored their strong support for the YSRC. The State Planning Board vice-chairman further pointed out that over the last five years, the State government disbursed welfare benefits worth Rs 2,79,786 crore, with a substantial portion directed towards women through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) and non-DBT channels. In the Central Constituency alone, welfare benefits amounting to Rs 402.46 crore have been provided, reflecting the governments commitment to womens empowerment, he added. Malladi Vishnu also highlighted the significant representation of women in various leadership positions, including cabinet roles, local bodies, and legislative councils. Exuding confidence, he said YS Jagan Mohan Reddy will be re-elected as Chief Minister with the overwhelming support of women.

One photograph is worth a thousand words: Collector

VIJAYAWADA: NTR District Collector S Dilli Rao highlighted the significance of the Information and Public Relations Department in ensuring government programmes reach the public effectively. He emphasised the importance of photography in conveying messages and memories and said, One photograph is worth a thousand words. At a programme organised in his office on Thursday, he handed over a Nikon D850 model camera to officials of the Information and Public Relations Department (I&PRD). He underscored the power of photography to capture emotions and preserve memories, noting its vital role in shaping public perceptions and understanding. Moreover, Dilli Rao stressed the crucial role of photography in the Information and Public Relations Department, which plays a pivotal role in disseminating information about government programs to the public. He urged the departmental officials and photographers to cover visits and events of prominent dignitaries and officials to distribute to the media. District Revenue Officer V Srinivasa Rao, District Information and Public Relations Officer U Surendranad, DPRO SV Mohan Rao, Publicity Assistant VV Prasad, Photographer M Sairam, and other officials were present.

Jagan Mohan Reddy will take oath as CM in Visakhapatnam on June 9: Botcha Satyanarayana

VIJAYAWADA: Minister for Education Botcha Satyanarayana has said YS Jagan Mohan Reddy will be sworn in as the Chief Minister of the State in Visakhapatnam on June 9 after the election results are announced on June 4. Speaking to mediapersons in Vijayawada on Thursday, he asserted that the people want Jagan to continue as the Chief Minister as he is committed to the effective implementation of welfare schemes. Hence, they turned up in large numbers at the polling stations to give their massive mandate to the YSRC. Unable to digest the overwhelming support to Jagan and the YSRC, the TDP had resorted to violence. Though they are fully aware of their defeat, they claim that they will make it to the finish line. Under TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu, the State did not achieve any development and there is not a single good thing to his credit despite being the Chief Minister thrice, he said. Hailing Jagans rule, Botcha said like nowhere in the country, the YSRC supremo set a new trend and implemented 99% of the promises made in the party election manifesto. He also brought in several reforms in key sectors to ensure comprehensive development of the State and its people. Our leader takes a decision after much thought and he never backs away from it. If any development programmes are not implemented, he clearly explains the reasons. Such courage is not visible among other leaders, he observed. Botcha alleged that the TDP had instigated violence and if the YSRC chief had retaliated in kind, the situation would have been different. But our leader asked all of us to maintain restraint, he said. Ridiculing the TDP chief for making tall claims without any substance, he said the people of the State are well aware of what Naidu did and what he didnt. People are not innocent to be misled again by TDPs Super Six. They have not forgotten Naidu going back on his promise of the SHG loan and farm loan waiver in 2014. We all have to bear Naidus claims till June 4, he said. The input subsidy and aid under Aasara and Vidya Deevena was released on May 14 and in two days, all the beneficiaries would receive it. This is the credibility of Jagan, which Naidu never has and will have, he added.

Andhra Pradesh HC ask government to curb violence in Palnadu

VIJAYAWADA: The Andhra Pradesh High Court directed the government to take all possible measures to maintain law and order in the State and ensure that there is no violence. The court on Thursday heard a petition filed by N Ramakoteswara Rao of Kothapet in Palnadu seeking directions for the deployment of additional forces in the violence-hit district to ensure peace. The petitioner maintained that the police did not take any concrete steps to prevent post-poll violence in Palnadu. Petitioners counsel P Raviteja informed the court that they had submitted a representation to the Chief Electoral Officer seeking deployment of additional forces in Palnadu. He further stated that they had taken the matter to the notice of the Chief Electoral Officer as the district SP did not initiate any concrete measures to restore normalcy in Palnadu. Assistant Government Pleader N Nirmal Kumar informed the court that the situation was under control in Palnadu, and additional forces were deployed in sensitive areas.

Palnadu remains tense, bombs seized in searches

VIJAYAWADA: Tense situation continued to prevail in Palnadu region on Thursday. Prohibitory orders under Section 144 of CrPC are in force to thwart any untoward incidents. Police carried out cordon and search operations at various problematic places in the district. Uneasy calm prevails in Palnadu and Tirupati As violence that broke out on the polling day continued on Tuesday and Wednesday, special forces were deployed in the district to prevent clashes between TDP and YSRC cadres. Shops and business establishments were closed to prevent damage to property by unruly mobs. Palnadu police and special forces carried out cordon and search operation at Pinelli village in Machavaram mandal. Country-made bombs were found in the houses of five villagers. Addressing mediapersons, Palnadu district Superintendent of Police Bindu Madhav said 55 petrol bombs and broken glass bottles were seized from the houses of Chintapalli Pedda Saida, Chintapalli Nanne, Allabakshu, Chintapalli Jani Basha and Thanda Pedda Nanne. Dachepalli police registered cases against them. A probe is on to find out how the quintet procured petrol bombs and other explosive materials. Searches will continue in all identified problematic villages in the district. Strict instructions have been given to police and special forces to take stringent action against those violating the prohibitory orders, the SP said. In Madala village, 29 petrol bombs were seized from a political leaders house. As many as 20 persons were arrested in connection with violence in Karempudi village. On the other hand, the police imposed restrictions in Macherla and put TDP leaders Nakka Anand Babu, Yarapathineni Srinivasa Rao and Julakanti Brahmananda Reddy under house arrest to prevent any untoward incidents in the constituency.

Candidates Concerned About Safety of EVMs

Vijayawada: Several candidates from both the YSRC and the three-party alliance in AP are apprehensive about safety of EVMs, which were secured and placed in the strongrooms. This fear is mainly in relation to Rayalaseema in view of the series of incidents in the region during and after Mondays polling. These contestants felt the state administration failed to control the poll-related violence. The post-poll scenario was worse in areas like Anantapur, Annamaiah, Tadipatri, Chandragiri, Macherla, Narasaraopeta etc, they noted. Even as we were delighted that there was a huge turnout of voters - 81.86 per cent polling in the state - the violent incidents were very unfortunate. BJP nominee from Dharmavaram Y. Satya Kumar said, We are very much concerned about the safety of EVMs in view of the violence. I am keeping a trusted man at the strong room on behalf of me at Lepakshi to keep a close watch on the sealed EVMs. Earlier, Chief Electoral Officer Mukesh Kumar Meena announced that the EVMs were secured in 350 strongrooms in 33 locations across the state. These have been provided with a three-tier security cover including the deployment of central forces alongside the local police especially at the entry level. There is also electronic surveillance, he said, and sounded confident there would be no safety lapse. There was an assault on Chandragiri Assembly segment TD nominee Pulaparthi Venkata Mani Prasad when he was trying to visit the strongroom at the Sri Padmavathi Mahila Viswa Vidyalayam in Tirupati on May 14. The culprits were arrested. Rajahmundry Rural YSRC nominee and minister Srinviasa Venugopal Krishna said, We are fortunate that we dont have such issues in this region. The EVMs are secured in the strongrooms at Adikavi Nannaya University and no one here encourages violence. Telugu Desam chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu, in a statement on Thursday, sought an inquiry to find out how some police officers failed to maintain law and order in several areas. They failed to control the YSRC rowdies, he said and expressed concern over the way the violence even reached Visakhapatnam. Rajahmundry Rural Assembly segment nominee from Telugu Desam, Gorantla Butchaiah Choudhary said, The YSRC leaders and supporters are acting in frustration. They are causing violence in several parts of the state. Kaikaluru Assembly segment BJP nominee Kamineni Srinvasa Rao said, Poll-related violence should be condemned by all. Fortunately we are not having any issues on safety of EVMs at the strongrooms in our area.

Jagan to Start New Term as CM on June 9, Says Botcha Satyanarayana

Vijayawada : Minister Botcha Satyanarayana expressed optimism on Thursday that YSRC chief Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy will take oath as Chief Minister for the second time in Visakhapatnam on June 9. Addressing the media here, the minister said that the high polling in the state reflected the aspirations of the people that Jagan Reddy should continue to rule the state for another term. He recalled that Jagan Reddy had asked the public to vote for his party if his government did good and he had promised to continue the reforms in education, medicine and administration. Satyanarayana said the Telugu Desam has lost its patience and started attacking the chief minister and the YSRC in cruel ways. We are going to win seats close to the target of 175, the minister said. Botcha Satyanarayana said the YSRC leaders showed patience even in the face of provocations and attacks from TD. It is not good to take the law into our hands as we must protect democracy and provide equal justice to all. The minister asked why people would vote for Chandrababu. Jagan Reddy has credibility, but does Chandrababu have that credibility? Because of Chandrababu's complaints, the funds of DBT schemes did not go to the beneficiaries. Now, after the polls, funds are being deposited for the welfare schemes, he said.

CPM Candidate Says YSRC, TD Paid Voters on Polling Day

Vijayawada : CPM leader and Vijayawada Central INDIA bloc candidate Ch. Babu Rao charged ruling YSRC and the opposition TDP-BJP-JSP alliance with distributing money to voters at polling booths on the polling day. On Thursday, Babu Rao visited Shanti Nagar and Payakapuram areas in 61st ward and thanked people for supporting his candidature in the general elections. Speaking on the occasion, the CPM leader alleged that government machinery remained mute when activists of political parties had been distributing money to voters. Babu Rao demanded that the state government, which has so far withheld funds to beneficiaries under various schemes because of elections, release the funds immediately with no further delay. He demanded that authorities address the drinking water shortage in Vijayawada Central constituency on a war footing and quench the thirst of people. CPM leaders B. Srinivas, Ch. Srinivas and N. Srinivas accompanied Babu Rao.

SC issues guidelines to curb illegal sand mining in AP

Supreme Court of India (Photo: PTI) Supreme Court of India (Photo: PTI) Vijayawada: The Supreme Court on Thursday has issued guidelines to curb illegal sand mining in AP and directed both the Centre and AP to submit their report on implementation of its order by June 9 and posted the next hearing to July 15 in New Delhi. The apex court has ordered for setting up a committee with police officials in each district in order to accept and resolve complaints pertaining to illegal mining of the sand and asked for giving widespread publicity for the toll free number and email ID. It suggested for conduct of regular inspection on such illegal activity by the Union ministry of environment. It issued direction to act sternly against those who involve in violation of norms in sand mining even by using heavy machinery. The SC has issued order for regular inspection by the district collectors on the places of illegal mining of sand identified by the Central authorities and called for booking cases against those who flout the norms and initiate criminal action against them.

Rebel MLC Janga Krishna Murthy disqualified by Legislative Council chairman

Vijayawada : YSRC rebel MLC Janga Krishna Murthy, who joined the Telugu Desam last month, has been disqualified under the anti-defection law. Legislative Council Chairman Koyye Moshenu Raju issued a notification to this effect on Thursday. Notably, the Chairman's action came three days after simultaneous elections to the state Assembly and Parliament. Krishna Murthy, who was also president of YSRC's Backward Class (BC) wing, resigned from the post and from the primary membership of the party after the party denied him the candidature for the Assembly or Lok Sabha elections. He wanted to contest the polls from the Gurazala Assembly constituency in Palnadu district. He had been elected as MLA in 1999 and 2004 from Gurazala on a Congress ticket. He later switched his loyalties to the YSRC. Murthy, a two-time MLA, joined the TD at a public meeting in Sattenapalli on April 6. After his defeat from the same constituency as YSRC candidate in 2014, the party did not field him in the 2019 polls. But Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy as president of the YSRC had nominated him to the state Legislative Council. This time, Murthy put huge pressure on the party to get the ticket for Gurazala, but the YSRC re-nominated sitting MLA Kasu Mahesh Reddy. Murthy was bitter after his claim was rejected for the Narasaraopet Lok Sabha seat too. The YSRC, instead, fielded another BC leader and former minister, P. Anil Kumar Yadav. Earlier, Murthy was a contender for the chairman post of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), but the party chose Tirupati MLA Bhumana Karunakara Reddy. On Thursday, Krishna Murthy objected to the decision to disqualify him and said the Chairman did not seek his version before issuing the disqualification decision.

Naidu Wants Governor to Hold E-office for New Government

Vijayawada: Telugu Desam chief N. Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday urged Governor S. Abdul Nazeer to direct Chief Secretary K.S. Jawahar Reddy to defer the proposed upgradation of the e-office in Andhra Pradesh until a new government takes charge of the state. In a letter addressed to the Governor, the former CM said it has come to his notice that the AP government is planning to upgrade the e-office version to 7. x, ostensibly under the direction of MeitY (Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology). Once the upgrade starts, services of the e-office application might not be available to the CMO, CS, secretariat departments, and HoDs from May 17 to May 25. Chandrababu Naidu expressed apprehensions about the timing of the upgrade, as important files and documents could be deleted with regard to government decisions involving omissions, commissions, irregularities, deviations, and diversion of resources to favour contractors and YSRC party leaders. The TD chief felt a decision to upgrade the e-office is also undesirable at this juncture as many officials, including HoDs, have been drafted for election duty and are not present in their headquarters. He felt the exercise could be deferred until the new government assumes charge. The former chief minister requested the Governor to instruct the chief secretary to take immediate steps to protect all government files and records in both physical and digital forms from the date the YSRC government assumed office on May 30, 2019, to the present by arranging CC cameras and other security measures in the offices of HoDs and departments within the secretariat.

Oorichivara Kalakarulu, a short film depicting transcendent art wins accolades

The filmmaker from Vijayawada depicts the struggle a young lower caste girl has to go through in pursuit of her passion for Bharata Natyam, when art was considered an exclusive higher caste domain a few decades ago

Occupancy ratio in theatres falls below 20% as no big film released in AP

Vijayawada : Devoid of big-budget film releases in the summer season, single-screen theatres across Andhra Pradesh are losing money as the occupancy ratio fell below 20 per cent in the cinema halls. Due to lack of star-hero film releases, the footfall in the single screen theatres has drastically reduced. With limited options available, theatres are running small-hero films and the spectators are coming in mainly during the weekends, said Mutyala Ramesh, former secretary and current EC member of AP film chamber of commerce. The fall in occupancy ratio should be a wake-up call for all the major production houses, he observed, adding that the advent of OTT platforms has taken away the sheen of the exhibition business. He said, Summers are always a period of good business for cinema houses. But, the unavailability of big films in this season, coupled with the IPL cricket tournament and general elections, derailed the entertainment business completely. The single-screen exhibitors are facing financial constraints and incurring huge losses. The average occupancy ratio is below 20 per cent per show and the patronage for some shows is nil, forcing the theatre managements to cancel the entire shows, said RV Bhopal Prasad, the proprietor of Navrang theatre. The Covid-19 pandemic dealt a severe blow to the theatre business and from then on, the businesses didn't recover. He explained, A single screen theatre has to spend Rs 13,000 to Rs 14,000 per day and the income generated is less than Rs 3,000. Theatre owners are obliged to pay Rs 13,000 as rent for UFO and Qube operators, which is not viable for the cinema halls given the current dull season. Andhra Pradesh has more than 650 single screens, possibly the highest for any state. The advent of multiplex complexes in big cities like Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam has killed the single screen cinemas halls, Bhopal Prasad stated. B Hari, a resident of Vijayawada, said, I used to watch every newly released film on Fridays. However, with no prominent movie releases in the last few weeks, I have not visited any movie theatre.

AP CS, DGP appear before ECI in New Delhi; Explains law & order situation

Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary KS Jawahar Reddy and Director- General of Police Harish Kumar Gupta on Thursday appeared before the Election Commission of India (ECI) in New Delhi and explained in detail the reasons behind the violence that took place in parts of Andhra Pradesh after polling on May 13. Both Reddy and Gupta came to the national capital in response to summons issued to them by the ECI in connection with post poll violence in the State asking them to appear before it on Thursday. The summons were issued after the ECI took a serious notice of the violent incidents in Narasaraopet, Palnadu, Chandragiri in Tirupati, Tadipatri and other areas during and after polling in Andhra Pradesh from May 13. Tense situation continued to prevail in several parts of violence affected areas in the State even though the police department deployed additional police forces to prevent any untoward incident. Since May 13, the leaders from YSRCP and TDP have been trading charges against each other, holding responsible for these incidents. The police department has decided to enhance security not only in trouble-prone areas but also other sensitive places during counting of votes on June 4.

Jagan dismisses Prashant Kishor's prediction, says YSRC will win more seats than last time

VIJAYAWADA: Asserting that the YSRC will win more seats than in the 2019 elections, Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Thursday said the entire country would stand up and take note of Andhra Pradesh because of the landslide victory that the party would achieve. Jagan Mohan Reddy met with representatives of the Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) where he also countered the claims of political strategist Prashant Kishor that the YSRC is going to lose big. Mincing no words that the mandate would be on his side, Jagan said, The numbers would be far greater than what Prashant would have dreamt of. Jagan lauded the services of I-PAC for the YSRC in the last one-and-a-half-years and told its representatives that the party will create history this time. We won 151 Assembly and 22 Lok Sabha seats in 2019 and we will win more seats this time to provide a much better government, he claimed. Stating that the services of I-PAC are invaluable, he said the YSRC government will work harder for the people in the next five years and observed that the journey of YSRC with I-PAC will continue in future as well. Jagan is losing big time in Andhra, says Prashant Kishor

Jagan confident of YSRCP retaining power with more seats than 2019 tally

Vijayawada: Exuding confidence that YSR Congress Party will retain power, Andhra Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on Thursday claimed that the party will win more seats than it won in 2019. Three days after the polling, the YSRCP chief visited the office of I-PAC (Indian Political Action Committee) here. He lauded the services 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 will form government once again in AP, say Jagan

Vijayawada: Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Thursday said the YSRCP would form the government in Andhra Pradesh once again after completion of counting of votes on June 4. Interacting with the members of I-PAC team at its office in Benz Circle in Vijayawada, he said no one believed that the YSRCP would get 151 Assembly seats in 2019 elections and this time it would surpass the number. He confidently said that the party would get 22 MPs seats. We are going to break our 2019 record and the whole country will look at AP during the election results on June 4, he said. The able administration that was ensured to the people in Andhra Pradesh by the YSRCP government coupled with the sustained efforts made by the I-PAC team for the last 18 months helped the party in creating a record during the elections. Your (I-PAC team) services cannot be measured, he said amid loud applause from the team members. He interacted with the team members in a similar manner after completion of elections in 2019.

Andhra policeman dies by suicide in Srisailam police station

Vijayawada: A police constable died by suicide in a police station in Srisaliam town in Andhra Pradeshs Nandyal district on Thursday. Constable Shiv Shankar Reddy allegedly shot himself in a room at Srisailam I Town Police Station where he was on duty. After hearing the gun sound, other police personnel rushed to the room and 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 .

Over 3.61 lakh students to appear for AP EAPCET today

VIJAYAWADA: JNTU Kakinada, representing the Andhra Pradesh State Council for Higher Education (APSCHE), has finalised all arrangements for the Andhra Pradesh Engineering, Agriculture & Pharmacy Common Entrance Test (AP EAPCET), slated to begin on May 16. More than 3.61 lakh students, including 2,73,008 students from the MPC stream and 87,421 students from the Bi.PC stream, are expected to appear for the online examination. AP State Council for Higher Education (APSCHE) chairman Prof K Hemachandra Reddy addressed the media, revealing that the online examination for the Bi.PC stream will span five sessions from May 16 to 17. Similarly, the exam for the MPC stream will be conducted over nine sessions from May 19 to 23. He also noted that due to political clashes, the Nandyal centres have been relocated. Candidates are advised to download the revised hall tickets, which include the updated venue and route map. To ensure punctuality, the council will strictly enforce a one-minute late rule, urging candidates to arrive at the test centres at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time. JNTU Kakinada vice-chancellor Prof GVR Prasada Raju mentioned that the examination will be held across 142 test centres, including two in Hyderabad. Each day will comprise two examination sessions. The first session will be from 9.00 am to 12.00 noon and the second session will be from 2.30 pm to 5.30 pm. Officials from APSCHE, including vice-chairman Prof K Rama Mohana Rao, vice-chairperson Prof P Uma Maheswari Devi, secretary Prof Y Nazeer Ahammed, special officer for CETs M Sudhir Reddy, assistant special officer for CETs G Madhavi, and academic officer Prof S Chandra Mohan Reddy were present.

SVEEP programmes boost Eluru voter turnout

VIJAYAWADA: The efforts of the Systematic Voters Education Electoral Participation (SVEEP) team in Eluru district have yielded remarkable results, with a significant increase in voter turnout recorded during the general elections held on May 13. SVEEP Nodal Officer and District Grama Panchayat Officer Tutika Srinivasa Viswanadh highlighted the success of awareness programmes conducted in the district, which contributed to the enhanced participation of voters. According to him, in the 2019 elections, the voting percentage in the seven Assembly constituencies of the present Eluru district stood at 83.75%, surpassing the State average of 79.77%. However, in the 2024 elections, the voting percentage soared to approximately 84.82%, setting a new record for the district. Under the Voter Turnout Implementation Plan-2024 (TIP-2024), approved by District Collector V Prasanna Venkatesh, extensive voter awareness programmes were implemented across the district for 90 days. DGPO Srinivasa Viswanadh was appointed as the SVEEP Nodal Officer to oversee and monitor the implementation of these programmes through a dedicated Control Room. The initiatives included setting up Booth Level Association Groups (BAG), promoting Chunav Patashala at booth levels, organising Campus Ambassadors, conducting folk programmes like Kalajatha, literacy camps, and awareness seminars in urban areas. Special emphasis was placed on engaging with Women SHGs and conducting face-to-face interactions with first-time voters. To further encourage voter participation, various strategies were employed, including the installation of model EVMs, programmes like Amma Pillusthundi to invite voters residing in other states and countries, and digital promotions through social media platforms. On the day of polling, the SVEEP team welcomed voters at polling stations dressed in traditional attire and bid farewell to each voter with green plants, promoting environmental protection. A total of 2,600 SVEEP programmes were conducted across the district in the last 90 days, said Viswanath.

Andhra Pradesh: Government depts to get e-Office software update

VIJAYAWADA: As per the directions of the Central government, all the government departments in Andhra Pradesh are scheduled for upgradation to e-Office 7.x software from May 17 to 25. The e-Office Project aims to enhance transparency and efficiency in government processes and service delivery. Managed and maintained by the National Informatics Centre (NIC), the e-Office undergoes periodic updates to address technical limitations and enhance functionality. With NIC overseeing the upgradation process, each State is allocated a specific schedule for migration. Presently, 14 states have successfully transitioned to e-Office 7.x, benefiting from its advanced features. The NIC is coordinating similar upgradation activities in other states, including Maharashtra, Kerala, and others, during the same period. The upgradation process is exclusively managed by the NIC and does not involve the State government. The e-Office files are stored in a highly secure and encrypted format, ensuring the utmost data security. The NIC maintains disaster recovery backups for all files, and once recorded in the e-file, it is impossible for users to edit, update, or delete any part or full file.

Police violated ECI guidelines at ANU: Chandrababu Naidu

VIJAYAWADA: TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday complained with the Chief Electoral Officer Mukesh Kumar Meena holding a party in the Nagarjuna University Campus, which is one of the strong rooms to store the EVMs till June 4. In his written complaint, the TDP chief said ECI has given strict guidelines regarding the security of strong rooms relating to EVMs after elections. The instructions, inter alia, provide that: No Vehicle, including that of any official or ministers or any other political functionary, should be allowed inside the secured campus where the EVMs and VVPATs and election papers are stored. ... He said these instructions were violated at the strong room located at the campus of Nagarjuna University, Nambur, Guntur district. It was reported that an event was organised by Attada Bapuji, SP, Chief Ministers Security Group (CMSG). The said event was conducted at Dr S John David Auditorium-cum-Seminar Hall of the University on May 14, in which several police officers participated, he explained. According to him, the seminar hall was decorated with Siddham posters of YSRC, and DJ songs of YSRC were played and nearly 450 police personnel participated in the event which started around 4.30 pm and continued till dinner time. It is a serious breach of security instructions given concerning Strong Rooms by the ECI, he pointed out. To support his complaint, he submitted videos and photos of the said event. I request to initiate stern and appropriate action against the police officers and arrange for setting a good precedent to see that all the strong rooms in the state of Andhra Pradesh are given tight security and restore the sanctity of the election process, the TDP chief said in his complaint.

Special Police Observer biased: YSRC

VIJAYAWADA: The YSRC has filed a formal complaint with the Chief Election Commissioner pertaining to the biased conduct of the Special Police Observer in the Andhra Pradesh elections. YSRC general secretary Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy alleged bias of the Election Commission and negligence by police in combating TDP-unleashed attacks. Speaking to mediapersons on Wednesday, he said TDP resorted to violence to disrupt polling. He expressed concern over the transfer of 29 officers, predominantly police, before polling, without adequate inquiry. Meanwhile, in his complaint, Lella Appi Reddy, YSRC general secretary, raised grave concerns regarding the actions of retired IPS officer Deepak Mishra, appointed as the Special Police Observer for the elections to the State Assembly and the Lok Sabha. The letter highlighted several incidents indicating a clear bias towards the TDP and a disregard for neutrality and fairness in the electoral process, posing a threat to its integrity. It was noted that since the arrival of the Special Police Observer in the State, multiple complaints have been lodged by both the YSRC and TDP. However, district police chiefs have consistently favoured TDPs complaints, while ignoring those submitted by the YSRC, even responding sarcastically to YSRC. Furthermore, implicit instructions and actions have made TDP cadre believe they have support from the police, resulting in compromised law enforcement during polling and post-polling, leading to law and order issues at several places in the State. These actions suggest that Deepak Mishra might have favoured the TDP at the behest of Vishnu Vardhan Rao, retired IPS officer, who is associated with the TDP, the YSRC leader noted in the letter. In light of these concerns, the YSRC urged the Election Commission to promptly appoint a new Special Police Observer known for honesty and integrity to ensure a level playing field for all the parties involved. On Wednesday evening, ministers Ambati Rambabu, Merugu Nagarjuna and Jogi Ramesh, along with YSRC MLAs Perni Nani and Namburu Shankara Rao, MLC Appi Reddy met Chief Electoral Officer Mukesh Kumar Meena and later Director General of Police Harish Kumar Gupta seeking a thorough investigation and appropriate action concerning recent violence by the TDP on the polling day and the day after. In a letter to the DGP, the YSRC expressed concern over the alarming increase in violent incidents perpetrated by cadres of the TDP against YSRC leaders and activists since the announcement of elections in Andhra Pradesh on March 16. Shockingly, there have been instances where law enforcement authorities either failed to intervene or, worse, sided with the perpetrators, the YSRC observed. Strongly condemning these acts of violence, the YSRC urged the authorities concerned to swiftly and decisively address the safety and security concerns of its cadres. In response to these distressing developments, the YSRC urgently has requested the Election Commission of India to take immediate and decisive action to ensure the safety and security of YSRC cadres and leaders by providing adequate protection and deploying additional security personnel in areas prone to violence. The YSRC also urged the EC to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the incidents of violence and intimidation perpetrated by TDP members, hold the perpetrators accountable for their actions, and take appropriate measures to prevent further acts of violence and intimidation during the electoral process, including strict enforcement of the law and imposition of severe penalties on those found guilty of violating election laws.

Andhra Pradesh records highest turnout of 80.66 per cent

VIJAYAWADA: Andhra Pradesh has recorded 80.66% polling, which is the highest than any other State that went to polling in the first four phases of elections in the country. Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, Chief Electoral Officer Mukesh Kumar Meena said when 1.1% of the postal ballot is added, the total polling in the State comes to 81.86%. The highest polling in the Assembly constituencies happened in Darsi at 90.91%, while the lowest voter turnout was reported in Tirupati at 63.32%. In the Lok Sabha constituencies, the highest polling of 87.06% was reported in Ongole, and the lowest of 71.11% in Visakhapatnam. In 2014, the polling percentage in the State was 78.41%, which increased to 79.77% in 2019, and now in 2024, it rose to 80.66%, 1.1% through postal ballot and the total voting of 81.86% that is almost 82%, which has been the target the Election Commission of India (ECI) has been working for before the elections through various voter awareness programmes. Large turnout of voters on May 13 is a welcome sign of the democracy. We took every measure that every voter arriving at the polling station was able to exercise their franchise. There was a good turnout in the morning and it decreased a bit in the afternoon, but after 4 pm, a large number of voters turned up at the polling centres. At 6 pm., in as many as 3,500 polling stations, voters were in queues in large numbers to cast their votes. It took midnight at some places and the last polling station to complete the polling process was at 2 am on the next day, he explained. The CEO said the delay in voting was due to weather conditions, as heavy rains disrupted the polling for some time in Udayagiri, Konaseema, and some places in Uttarndhra. Under the supervision of election observers, all the EVMs were sealed and shifted to strong rooms. A total of 175 strong rooms for the Assembly segments were set up, he said. A total of 4.97 lakh people availed of the postal ballot, which includes those who opted for home voting (85 plus aged and persons with disabilities), government employees on election duty, and essential service personnel. On the occasion, he explained how the election officials had ensured that 2,000 voters belonging to Visakhapatnam came from Maharashtra region by train, but were delayed. The election officials coordinated with railway officials and ensured a green channel for the train they were travelling in and the train reached Vizag by 5.27 pm. This shows that the Election Commission of India is making every effort to ensure the voters can exercise their right to vote, he added. He also explained how the election commission has allowed the police officials from the State on duty in Maharashtra to avail their vote by giving special casual leave amending the existing rules.

Cautious optimism pervades YSRC and NDA

VIJAYAWADA: A cautious optimism is evident in both the YSRC and NDA camps following a record polling of 81.86% in the State for the general elections held on May 13 for both the Legislative Assembly and the Lok Sabha. Despite assertions of victory in the elections, the celebratory mood seems to be missing in both camps, as no one is sure as to which way the vote of the people of Andhra will swing and how much difference the 1.5% increase in the voter turnout compared to the 2019 elections will make in the end. In 2019, it was a clean sweep for the YSRC, which recorded a landslide victory, and saw more than 50% vote share in its kitty. However, this may not be the case this time, opined a senior member of the ruling party. Whichever way the needle swings, the winning side will land up with seats between 98 to 104, observed political analysts, who have been keeping track of the developments in the State for the past couple of months leading to the elections. When a large number of young voters were seen queuing up at the polling booths and high turnout of voters during the first half of the polling on May 13, the TDP asserted that victory was its. However, later in the day, the swelling number of seniors and women at the polling, especially from the working class and poor sections, made the YSRC assert that victory was its. The TDP has been banking on the anti-incumbency factor, while the YSRC has banked on the positive vote, stating the welfare measures for the past five years, have made it the favourite of the people. But at the end of the day, none of these parties are confident as to which way the voters will swing, observed a senior leader, who is inactive now. It is learnt that leaders of both the parties are also worried about the impact of the cash not reaching the voters on the day before the polls, as in several places, the lower-rung leaders had either run away with cash given to them for distribution or giving less cash than what was promised.

Samagra Shiksha director recommends vocational courses

Vijayawada : Samagra Shiksha and AP School Education department organised a workshop on Designing Vocational Education Course Textbooks in Vijayawada on Wednesday. Speaking on the occasion, Samagra Shiksha state project director B. Srinivasa Rao said vocational education courses will be a great way of attracting children to schools and equipping them with future life skills. He said materials, tools and books related to vocational education courses have been made available in schools. These can be used by each student to prepare a project, based on which prizes will be given. Srinivasa Rao asked parents and teachers to encourage students to take up vocational education, so that they can become self-reliant. Those who participated in the workshop included Samagra Shiksha ASPD Dr. K.V. Srinivasulu Reddy, GCDO AD Abdul Rawoof Syed, superintendent S. Srinivasulu, Vocational Courses state coordinator B. Bharathi, subject matter experts and vocational coordinators.

Assailants Cut Off Repalle Rowdy Sheeters Head

Vijayawada : Assailants brutally killed a 48-year-old rowdy sheeter and cut off his head near Jagananna colony in Repalle town of Bapatla district. Police have identified the deceased rowdy as Subba Rao (48), a resident of Guddikayalanka village. According to police, Viswanathapalli Prasad and Adarsh had attacked Subba Rao with hunting sickles while they had been consuming alcohol at the vacant plots in Jagananna colony in Isukapalli on Tuesday evening. A case has been registered and a probe is underway.

AP e-office Project Being Upgraded

Vijayawada : Information Technology secretary Kona Sasidhar on Wednesday said the state governments e-Office Project will undergo upgradation from May 17 to May 25. He explained that e-office has been initiated by the Government of India and is being implemented by all central and state governments and organisations. The project is aimed at improving transparency and efficiency in government processes and service delivery. Sasidhar said the upgradation process is being completely handled by NIC and the state government has no direct role in it.

Launch boat hits dune gets struck in Krishna River, passengers rescued

A patrol boat of the Indian Navy and fire force on a search operation on the Vembanad Lake in Kochi on Friday for Vishnu Unni, the missing sailor. (Photo: DC/File) A patrol boat of the Indian Navy and fire force on a search operation on the Vembanad Lake in Kochi on Friday for Vishnu Unni, the missing sailor. (Photo: DC/File) Vijayawada: A major mishap was averted after a launch boat with 25 passengers aboard en route to Ibrahimpatnam from Rayapudi village hit a sand dune and got stuck in the Krishna River in the NTR district on Wednesday. Upon learning about the incident, Ibrahimpatnam police led by CI Mutyala Satyanarayana under the supervision of West ACP Muralikrishna Reddy roped in local fishermen to rescue the stranded passengers using the country boats of the local fishermen. Police said there were no casualities.

Dr B.R. Ambedkar Gurukulams Announce Counselling Dates for Remaining Seats

Vijayawada : The social welfare department has announced counselling dates for the remaining seats in Dr B.R. Ambedkar Gurukulams in Krishna and NTR districts. B. Sumitra Devi, coordinator of social welfare for both districts, informed that counselling will be held on May 16 and 17 for admissions to the intermediate level for the academic year 2024-25. Students have already been allotted seats based on their exam marks and merit list ranking. May 16th: Counselling for boys will be held at Dr B.R. Ambedkar Gurukulam School and College (Boys) in Krishna Rao Palem. May 17th: Counselling for girls will be conducted at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Gurukulam School and College (Girls) in Kuntamukkala. Merit list students from the Joint Krishna district are advised to register for counselling by sending their details via mobile phone. Boys can register by sending a message to 9704550059. Girls can register by sending a message to 9704550060. Counselling will commence at 10:00 AM on both days. Students are required to report by 9:00 AM for the counselling session.

YSRC Alleges Naidu Behind AP Poll Violence

Vijayawada : Social welfare minister Merugu Nagarjuna on Wednesday alleged that Telugu Desam Party chief N. Chandrababu Naidu triggered attacks during polling in Andhra Pradesh, sensing that he and his NDA alliance will lose the elections. Speaking to media, he pointed out that people of the state have seen how voters belonging to SCs, STs, BCs, minorities and poor had been attacked by TD mobs. Recalling a specific instance, Nagarjuna said TD workers attacked a BC woman in Konidela of Palnadu district after she voted for YSRC. Attacks had also been carried out on the houses of poor and marginalised communities in Macherla. In Chilakaluripet an SC person's house had been vandalised because he had acted as a YSRCP agent at a polling booth. Stones had been pelted on the houses of Dalits in Muppalla of Sattenapalli constituency. In Pedakurapadu Kambhampadu, TD terrorised SC and ST people by attacking them, the minister stated. He went on to charge that police officers worked like TD activists in many places. Not a single policeman went to places where attacks took place on YSRC workers. Police restricted YSRC leaders from coming close to polling booths. But TD candidates and their leaders had been left unchecked. Nagarjuna said however many conspiracies the opposition may hatch, YSRC will win the elections once again on June 4.

Bapatla District Sees 85.15 per Cent Voter Turnout

Vijayawada: The polling percentage in Bapatla district stood at 85.15 per cent in the present elections. All the six assembly constituencies --Vemuru, Repalle, Bapatla, Parchur, Chirala and Addanki -- clocked over 80 per cent voter turnout. The Addanki assembly constituency that recorded a 90.36 per cent voter turnout in the last elections registered a voter turnout of 88.25 per cent this time, the highest among all the constituencies in the district. Closely following Addanki is Parchur that recorded 87.32 per cent turnout, Vemuru 86.43, Bapatla 83.02, Repalle and Chirala 82.59 and 82.61 per cent polling. According to EC data, a total of 10.99 lakh votes have been polled across the six assembly constituencies in the 2024 in Bapatla district. The poll percentage increased in the present elections in the district, district collector Ranjith Basha said. Meanwhile, the poll officials shifted the EVMs and VVPAT machines to the strong rooms and sealed them in the presence of the candidates. Stating that the polling in the district ended on a peaceful note, SP Vakul Jindal said other than sporadic clashes outside some polling stations, the polling ended peacefully. The clashes at some polling stations were stopped immediately with the deployment of additional police forces. The SP said the police registered 30 cases against 241 persons for disturbing the law and order on the polling day.

Naidu Writes to AP CEO for Security at Strong Rooms

Telugu Desam president N. Chandrababu Naidu (X.com) Telugu Desam president N. Chandrababu Naidu (X.com) Vijayawada: Telugu Desam chief N. Chandrababu Naidu has written to AP chief electoral officer (CEO) Mukesh Kumar Meena seeking tight security at the strong rooms where EVMs and VVPATs have been placed in various areas of the state. In his letter addressed to the CEO on Wednesday, Naidu alleged a breach of security at the strong room located on the campus of Nagarjuna University in Guntur district. In this regard, he quoted a report about an event organised on May 14 at the venue, where YSRCs Siddham posters had been found and YSRC songs played. The former chief minister said 450 police personnel had taken part in that event. Naidu requested the CEO to ensure tight security at all strong rooms in the state and restore sanctity of the election process.