Minister Kakani Goverdhan Reddys mafia is behind rave party in Bangalore, alleges TDP leader

Agriculture minister Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy Agriculture minister Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy Nellore: Senior TDP leader and former Minister Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy on Tuesday alleged that the mafia of Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Minister Kakani Goverdhan Reddy was behind in organizing a rave party in Bangalore. Addressing a press conference, he sought to know how the Bangalore police could find only the car sticker in the name of the Minister when hundreds of people were attending the party. The TDP leader demanded that the enforcement agencies take stern action against the Minister, who allegedly colluded with anti-social elements. The rave party organized GR farmhouse at Hebbagodi was busted by the Electronic City police in the early hours of Monday and named over 100 to 150 unknown persons as accused in the case. The sleuths of City Crime Branch (CCB) raided the party hosted in the name of Vasu's Birthday and subtitled Sunset to Sunrise and seized cocaine, 'ecstacy' and MDMA pills and other narcotic substances. The party was organized with the knowledge of the Minister only, Chandramohan Reddy said, alleging that the Ministers mafia extended necessary help for organizing the party. He appealed to the NDA government to take stern action against the anti-social elements. He said he would submit relevant evidence pertaining to the Ministers activities to the government for taking action against him.

My MLA pass on vehicle found at rave party fake: Kakani Govardhan Reddy

NELLORE : A vehicle bearing the MLA pass of Sarvepalli MLA and Agriculture Minister Kakani Govardhan Reddy was reportedly found at a rave party organised at GR Farmhouse near Electronic City on the outskirts of Bengaluru on Sunday. The Anti-Narcotics Wing of Central Crime Branch (CCB) Police arrested five individuals, including from Andra Pradesh, who organised and carried drugs at the rave party. The police identified the accused as Vasu, the party organiser and birthday boy, Arun, Naga Babu, Ranbir and Siddiqui. According to sources, more than 100 people participated in the party, including Telugu serial actresses and models. Responding to news that a vehicle bearing his MLA pass was found at the rave party, Kakani accused Nellore TDP leaders of trying to defame him out of fear of defeat in the general elections. He clarified that he has no connection with the car, its owner or the individuals involved in the rave party. The car owner was identified as Tummala Venkateswar Rao of Vijayawada. Kakani claimed that he did not know the car owner. He also stated that the MLA sticker on the vehicle was counterfeit and he had already filed a police complaint about the unauthorised use of his MLA pass. Kakani sought a thorough probe into the rave party to reveal the facts. The TDP has resorted to make baseless accusations against me out of fear of impending YSRC victory in the Assembly elections in the State, he observed.

Dont bypass land record rules: Andhra Pradesh HC to revenue dept

VIJAYAWADA: The Andhra Pradesh High Court found fault with the revenue department for changing the names in the revenue records without the knowledge of land owners, besides not issuing notices to them. It made it clear that in case the name in the records has to be changed, the affected party should be issued a notice and his arguments should be taken into consideration, before making any changes. Bypassing rules and changing names in the revenue records is not allowed. Further, the court said such a practice is against the verdict of the Andhra Pradesh High Court in the Chinnam Pandurangam case. The court issued an interim stay on the tahsildar orders renaming the lands belonging to the petitioners from Parikota village in Nellore district as government lands. It directed the officials not to interfere in the land issue of the petitioners. When the lands belonging to P Satyanagendra Prasad of Ramannapalem in Mogalthur mandal in West Godavari district were given to a third party by changing the names in the revenue records, he approached the High Court. Taking cognisance of the petition, the court directed the assistant government pleader to submit complete details of the case in the form of an affidavit, and adjourned the hearing after summer vacation.

Cordon and search operation underway in Nellore

The district police aim to arrest the absconding criminals and identify and seize stolen property, all suspected unregistered vehicles, among other operations

Andhra Pradesh: Drop in mango yield leads to rise in prices

TIRUPATI: This years mango season has brought a mixed bag of outcomes for farmers of Chittoor and Nellore districts. While market prices for mangoes are high, unfavourable climatic conditions have hit the crop yield in the two districts considerably. Farmers are experiencing an unexpected twist as common varieties of mangoes fetch significantly higher prices this season. The Pullera variety is now priced between Rs 25,000 and Rs 30,000 per tonne, and the Khadar variety between Rs 45,000 and Rs 50,000. This is a substantial price increase from last year when Pullera fetched Rs 10,000 to Rs 12,000 per tonne, and Khadar did not get more than Rs 25,000. However, the increased prices do not fully compensate for the low crop yield. The premium table variety mangoes have seen a shortage of less than 10%, and many farmers are struggling to recover their cultivation costs. The absence of out-of-State buyers, who previously helped drive competition and prices, has left local traders as the primary purchasers. Hence, farmers have urged the government to provide them necessary support. S Suresh, a mango farmer of Chittoor, expressed concern about the loss due to adverse weather conditions. The unpredictable climate, particularly untimely rains, has affected mango blossom at the initial stage. Despite measures taken to protect the crop, the yield has dropped, he lamented. Horticulture officials noted a significant reduction in mango crop acreage. While the normal crop acreage spans 10,000 hectares, it has diminished this season, resulting in a low yield of about 5 tonnes per hectare, compared to the normal 8-10 tonnes. We are expecting a drop in the yield of table variety mangoes this year. This has made it difficult for consumers to get good variety and adequate stock, an official explained. In upland areas such as Rapur, Naidupet, Venkatagiri, Gudur, Sangam, Kaligiri, Vinjamur, AS Pet and other mandals of Nellore, the situation is similar.Chittoor district, known for its fine varieties of mangoes, and a thriving pulp industry, has also seen a rise in prices for Totapuri variety.

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.

GenNext crisis for Kerala Congress parties as youngsters migrate to foreign countries

KOCHI: The migration of Keralas youth to foreign countries has significant implications for society. While experts are examining the economic and social impacts of the exodus, it has also profoundly affected the states political parties. Their youth and student wings are suffering from a shortage of capable second-generation leaders. This trend has particularly impacted the Kerala Congress factions as young people from Central Kerala, where these parties hold influence, are migrating in large numbers to European countries, the US, Australia, and Canada. Political analysts are of the view that Kerala Congress leaders are largely unaware of the extent to which they are losing their political base. Kerala Congress feeder organisations, such as the Kerala Students Congress (KSC) and the Kerala Youth Front (KYF), were once considered the nurturing grounds for the parent organisation. However, the student and youth wings of all factions are now facing a severe shortage of capable leaders. According to political observer Dijo Kappen, there are currently about seven or eight Kerala Congress factions in the state. However, the representation of these groups student wings in colleges across the state is minimal. If we take the number of university union councillors, the total number of all the councillors of the students wing of various Kerala Congress factions will not go up to 10. Once the Kerala Students Congress (KSC) was the main opponent of KSU in the university union elections, he pointed out. Leaders like T M Jacob, former MP Thomas Kuthiravattom, and former legislators P C George, Johny Nellore, and K C Joseph were state-level functionaries of the KSC while P J Joseph and the late C F Thomas entered public life through the Youth Front of the undivided Kerala Congress. Even after various splits, leaders such as Joseph M Puthussery, Thomas Unniyadan, Roshy Augustine, and Mons Joseph emerged from the student and youth wings to join the mainstream. However, the current crisis is that these parties are struggling to cultivate a second generation of leaders. The major supporters of the Kerala Congress are settler farmers in Kottayam, Idukki, Pathanamthitta, and parts of Ernakulam district. Now, their second generation is settling abroad, and this mass exodus of the states youth has hit the Kerala Congress the hardest, as all factions are struggling without a new generation of leadership. The disappointing factor is that the leaders of Kerala Congress are not aware that the political ground beneath their feet is fast eroding, said Kappen. Previously, migration was primarily to Middle Eastern countries, where those moving abroad remained voters and stayed involved in political activities. They often returned and started living in Kerala. However, the current trend sees people moving to Europe and America and settling there permanently. S Irudaya Rajan, an expert in Migration Studies, noted that this trend is part of a broader migration pattern. In the southern districts, not all youths are moving abroad, but naturally, it has implications for political parties as well, he added. Shortage of leaders Kerala Congress feeder organisations, such as the Kerala Students Congress (KSC) and the Kerala Youth Front (KYF), were once considered the nurturing grounds for the parent organisation However, the student and youth wings of all factions are now facing a severe shortage of capable leaders

Anam accuses officials of bias in Atmakur polls

Tirupati: Former minister and Telugu Desam candidate from Atmakur assembly constituency Anam Ramanarayana Reddy accused government officials of acting on diktats of Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and his advisor Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy during the May 13 general elections. Addressing media in Nellore on Friday, he pointed out that the Election Commission of India had transferred a large number of IAS, IPS and other officials for acting in favour of the ruling party during the election period. It is for the first time in country's history that such a thing has happened, the former minister remarked. With regard to his Atmakur constituency, he accused the district administration of failing to make proper security arrangements at booth numbers 1 to 10 in Marripadu mandal, which is known for its omb culture. This led to YSRC cadres and Mekapati family indulging in several election irregularities, he charged. However, Ramanarayana Reddy exuded confidence about his victory in Atmakur as well as the NDA alliances victory in the state. The yellow flag will fly all across the state on June 4 when results are announced, he declared.

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.

Mid-summer showers bring relief from heat in Andhra Pradesh

VISAKHAPATNAM: Heavy rain swept through isolated areas of South Coastal Andhra Pradesh (SCAP) and Rayalaseema, along with a few spots in Visakhapatnam and Anakapalle on Thursday. The downpour brought a significant drop in temperature, offering much-needed relief from the hot and humid weather conditions. Among the notable rainfall figures, Ongole district recorded the highest precipitation with 50.5 mm, followed by Nandikotkur in Sri Potti Sriramulu Nellore district at 48.5 mm, and Konidela in Nandyal district at 47.25 mm. Payakaraopeta in Anakapalle district received 33.5 mm of rainfall, while Ainavilli in Dr BR Ambedkar Konaseema district saw 21.5 mm, and Pedagantyada in Visakhapatnam district received 10.75 mm. Visakhapatnam experienced cool climatic conditions throughout the day, with light rainfall persisting until 10 am. Temperatures on Thursday remained below 40 degrees Celsius, with Kurnool recording 39.1Celsius, Anantapur at 38.6Celsius, Nandyala at 38Celsius, and Kadapa at 37.2Celsius. Notably, no mandal in the State reported a heatwave on Thursday. However, the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority cautioned that 28 mandals, including 18 in Srikakulam district, six in Vizianagaram district, and four in Parvathipuram Manyam district, are likely to experience a heatwave on Friday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted the continuation of lower tropospheric south-easterly winds over Andhra Pradesh and Yanam, leading to thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and strong gusty winds of 40-50 kmph at isolated places over North Coastal Andhra Pradesh (NCAP), Yanam, SCAP, and Rayalaseema. This weather pattern is expected to persist for another four days until May 20. The mid-summer showers provided a welcome reprieve from the scorching heat in some parts of the southern State. Additionally, the IMD noted that the southwest monsoon is highly likely to advance into the South Andaman Sea, parts of the southeast Bay of Bengal, and the Nicobar Islands around May 19. Heatwave conditions likely in 28 mandals today The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority cautioned that 28 mandals, including 18 in Srikakulam district, six in Vizianagaram district, and four in Parvathipuram Manyam district, are likely to experience a heatwave on Friday

Sudden downpour brings respite from summer heat in Nellore, Prakasam

At 87.09%, Ongole Lok Sabha constituency records highest voter turnout in State

Darsi remains the leading Assembly constituency in the State with a polling percentage of 90.91; improved performance in Nellore district attributed to voter awareness programmes

Andhra Pradesh: Rural areas record high voting, urban engagement sees slight rise

GUNTUR: While many urban constituencies in the State showed apathy, their voter turnout remained steady compared to the last elections. Although polling percentages in urban areas were lower than in rural areas, they still saw an increase compared to the 2019 elections. The zeal shown by the voters was quite noticeable this time in major urban areas including Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, Guntur, Tirupati, and Nellore. The voters arrived at their respective polling stations even before 6.30 am and the rush was continued till the midnight in most of the segments. According to the poll percentage announced by the Election Commission of India (ECI) in Voter Turnout App, 64.35 polling percentage was recorded in Guntur West. The constituency, comprising 26 divisions of Guntur city recorded only 65.84 in 2019. With various awareness programmes organised by the ECI and Guntur district administration, the poll per cent increased to 66.24%. However, the constituency recorded the lowest poll percentage out of the seven segments under the Guntur Lok Sabha constituency. On the other hand, the poll per cent in Guntur East constituency reported 70.20% in the present elections while it recorded 70.25% in the last polls. In Vijayawada Central constituency, the poll percentage surpassed the 2019 record of 65.95%, with reporting 72.88% in 2024 polls. Vijayawada West stood last in the LS segment with 68.55%, which is higher than 63.41% in 2019, Vijayawada East recorded 71.32%. Despite of the better participation in Vijayawada city constituencies, the three segments reported below 80 poll percentage in Vijayawada Lok Sabha constituency. Nellore Urban constituency also out performed with 70.20% which is way higher than 61% in 2019 elections. The constituency also comparatively performed well than the rural constituency which recorded only 66.18 poll per cent. Tirupati recorded only 59.95 poll per centage, the least in the district. Visakhapatnam East constituency reported 68.50 poll per cent which is higher than total poll percent of 64.73 in 2019. While Visakhapatnam South reported 58.9 per cent, the least in the district, 65.06 poll percentage is recorded in Visakhapatnam West, Visakhapatnam North recorded 61.52%.

SW Monsoons Setting in over AP around June 6

Visakhapatnam: The Southwest Monsoon is likely to set in over Andhra Pradesh on time this year, between June 4 and June 6, if conditions are favourable. Last year, it was delayed by over a week and set in over Rayalaseema on June 11. IMD Amaravati said the southwest monsoon will advance into the south Andaman Sea, southeast Bay of Bengal and Nicobar Islands, on May 19 and Kerala on June 1 as per normal schedule, and to Rayalaseema around June 6. Last year also, the monsoon entered the south Andaman Sea on May 19. An IMD report in April said the monsoon showers between June and September in Andhra Pradesh are likely to be above normal at 106 per cent of the long-period average (LPA). The state received 13 per cent deficient rainfall during the southwest monsoon in 2023. It recorded a total of 454.6 mm of rainfall between June 1 and September 30 in 2023, which was 13 per cent deficient against the normal of 521.6 mm. Senior scientist at IMD-Amaravati, S. Karuna Sagar, said this year, the annual southwest monsoon was expected to arrive in AP on its scheduled time between June 4 and June 6 and is expected to pick up strength from the third week of June. Coastal Andhra Pradesh will experience extreme hot and humid weather conditions before the arrival of the monsoon, he said. Andhra Pradesh recorded above-normal rainfall for seven times in the past 10 years (from 2013 to 2022) during the southwest monsoon period from June to September. The forecast comes as a relief for the agriculture sector, which heavily relies on SW monsoon for crop production. About the current weather conditions, the IMD report on Tuesday said thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds (40-50 kmph) are likely over isolated places in coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema from May 15 to May 18. During the last 24 hours, Nellore received a rainfall of 12 cm, Anantapur 11 cm, and Bapatla 7 cm.

First-time voters queue up with enthusiasm across Rayalaseema region in Andhra Pradesh

TIRUPATI: Across the Rayalaseema region and Nellore district, a wave of enthusiasm was observed as several first-time voters participated in the electoral process on Monday, exercising their constitutional right with fervour. For many of these young citizens, casting their vote for the first time marked a moment of pride and responsibility. However, alongside the excitement, there was a palpable sense of urgency and expectation. Many first-time voters voiced their demands for accountable governance and concrete action on pressing issues affecting society. I feel very excited to exercise my franchise for the first time, shared Sathwika, a first-time voter from Tirupati city. We need policies that prioritise job creation, women's safety, and reforms across various sectors. We expect leaders to fulfil the promises made during their campaign, she expressed. In addition to their calls for responsive governance, they emphasised the importance of transparency and integrity in the electoral process. I want to elect a visionary leader who will address the issues faced by residents, stated K Sriram, a first-time voter from the Atmakur segment of Nellore district. He opined that leaders must devise comprehensive development plans and the young voters must make informed decisions before casting their ballots. S Saraswati, another first-time voter from Tirupati city, underscored her independent approach to voting, stating that she made her decision without seeking advice from family or friends. Voting is not just a right, but a profound responsibility, she affirmed and added, As first-time voters, we have the authority to influence the trajectory of our nation. My choice was made independently, devoid of any external influence. Throughout the day, the majority of first-time voters patiently waited in queues at polling stations, particularly in urban areas like Tirupati, Nellore, Atmakur, Kavali, and Sullurpeta. Among the first-time voters was Anshu Mallika, daughter of YSRC Nagari contender RK Roja, who expressed her gratitude for the democratic right to participate in the electoral process. I feel privileged to have this democratic right and to contribute to the process of electing our representatives, she remarked. Similarly, In Chittoor district, first-time voters joined the electoral process with eagerness, sharing their experiences as they exercised their franchise. Amidst the bustling polling stations, the enthusiasm of first-time voters was palpable as they cast their ballots for the first time. Many expressed their excitement at participating in the democratic process and emphasised the importance of their vote in shaping the future of the nation. Voters of all ages took advantage of selfie stands set up at polling stations, capturing moments of civic engagement and sharing them on social media.

Caught on camera: Car hits, runs over woman toll plaza staff on Delhi-Meerut Expressway

Caught on camera: Car hits, runs over woman toll plaza staff on Delhi-Meerut Expressway Meerut (Uttar Pradesh) [India], May 14 (ANI) A woman staff member at the Kashi toll plaza in the Paratpur area on the Delhi-Meerut Expressway sustained serious injuries after being hit and run over by the driver of a car, who fled after the incident. A video of the incident captured on CCTV shows the driver of the car talking to the woman before abruptly accelerating due to which the employee falls on the bonnet of the vehicle and slides off as it picks up speed. The woman staff member was rushed to hospital with serious injuries. A car coming from Delhi misbehaved with our staff. Upon asking for the toll, the car drove over the staff member, injuring her severely. This is a serious incident and the administration should take proper action so that such incidents do not happen again. Anil Sharma, the manager of Kashi Toll Plaza told ANI. A complaint has been filed and police are investigating, including reviewing the CCTV footage from the toll booth to identify the culprit. Earlier, on April 24, at least three people were killed and two were left critically injured when their speeding car hit a lorry from behind near the Musunuru toll plaza in Kavali, Nellore, Andhra Pradesh. (ANI)

Peoples support for Jagan evident with high turnout: Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy

VIJAYAWADA: YSRC general secretary Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy has asserted that the people of the State are with Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy as it is evident from the high voter turnout in the elections. Speaking to mediapersons on Monday, he said the people had already taken a decision and turned up in large numbers at the polling stations to give their massive mandate to the YSRC for its commitment to development and welfare. In the last five years, Jagan has gone with only agenda -- the welfare of the downtrodden, particularly SCs, STs, BCs, minorities and women. We believe that the voters have given their mandate to the peoples agenda of our party, he averred. Lashing out at the TDP for its attacks on YSRC cadre and supporters across the State during polling, Sajjala said, The yellow partys frustration and desperation are at its peak and they have resorted to violence to disrupt polling. The TDP has become aware of the peoples intentions. Hence, it has resorted to violence and even rigging. The TDP violence started with the stabbing of a YSRC polling agent in Chittoor in the morning itself. In an unrestrained manner, TDP goons resorted to violence in Macherla, Narasaraopet, Penamaluru, Tadipatri, GD Nellore, Pileru, Ponnur, Addanki, Jaggaiahpet and Sattenapalle. In Narasaraopet, the YSRC MLAs nursing home was attacked. We have maintained restraint despite such provocation as we wanted to ensure peaceful and smooth polling. Those who vote for us, especially women and the poor would turn away if there was violence, hence we did not retaliate, he maintained. The TDP from the very beginning had played a drama to mislead the people and tied up with the BJP to get a big backup. Its agenda was unclear and would never benefit the poor. In a democracy, peoples decision is final and we strongly believe that people have opted for us, he said. Rigging took place in some of the polling stations in Kuppam, Macherla, Tekkali, Vemuru, Guntur West, Ponnur and other segments, where even EVMs were also damaged. The YSRC has lodged complaints with the Election Commission with evidence, and sought repolling in those polling stations, he added.

Enthusiastic Voters, Sporadic Unrest Mark Polls in Chittoor and Nellore Regions

Tirupati: The simultaneous assembly and parliament elections in the erstwhile Chittoor and Nellore districts on Monday witnessed sporadic incidents of violence and disruptions, despite a good voter turnout. The elections turned into an arena of intense political rivalry, with numerous clashes erupting between supporters of the YSRC and the Telugu Desam (TD)-Jana Sena-BJP alliance. Tensions ran high throughout the day, with physical altercations and heated confrontations reported from multiple constituencies. In Mandi Krishnapuram village under the Gudipala mandal of Chittoor assembly constituency, YSRC polling agent Suresh Reddy and TD agent Chandra clashed outside a polling station. Chandra attacked Suresh with a knife, causing a bleeding wound, police said. Tension escalated in Brahmana Kaluva under Chandragiri constituency. Central forces fired shots into the air to disperse rival groups. Supporters of TD allegedly attacked a YSRC agent at Naravaripalle, the native village of TD chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu, within the Chandragiri constituency. In Karveti Nagaram, tension flared as TD activists blocked YSRC's GD Nellore assembly candidate K Krupa Lakshmi from accessing a polling booth, resulting in heated exchanges. Krupa Lakshmi's brandishing of her footwear escalated the conflict. Similarly, in Chittoor city's Mittur area, the simultaneous arrival of former MLA and TD's general agent CK Babu and YSRC's candidate Vijayananda Reddy at a polling booth ignited a dispute. Joint collector and returning officer Srinivasulu intervened to restore calm. Gudur YSRC candidate Meruga Murali was blocked from entering a booth by TD leaders in Chillakuru mandal, sparking clashes and TD candidate Pasam Sunil Kumar rallied his supporters. With a significant presence of TD supporters, the situation turned tense, prompting the need for heightened security measures. In Chejerla mandal of Nellore district, cadres of TD and YSRC fought near a polling booth, prompting a mild lathicharge. Sudden rains in Timmareddypalli and Udayagiri disrupted voting as voters scattered and polling materials were reportedly drenched. Despite these incidents, the polling process were overall peaceful, with enthusiastic voters turning up in large numbers from the morning to cast their votes. Tirupati district's voter turnout stood at 73.76 per cent by 8pm. However, the Tirupati assembly segment's percentage was rather disappointing, at 61.33. Its neighboring constituency Srikalahasti reported 76.44, followed by Chandragiri 75.70, Gudur 73.11, Satyavedu 80.69, Sullurpeta 75.98 and Venkatagiri 75.25 per cent by 8pm. Chittoor district witnessed a 75.67 per cent voter turnout by 5pm. The seven assembly constituencies under the district recorded voter percentages as follows - Punganur 74.09, Nagari 76.81, G.D. Nellore 79.90, Chittoor 74.75, Puthalapattu 77.17, Palamaner 72.33, and Kuppam 75.79. Nellore district recorded a 69.95 per cent polling by 5pm. The constituency-wise breakdown is as follows: Kandukur 74.68, Kavali 67.12, Atmakur 67.21, Kovur 73.59, Nellore City 67.60, Nellore Rural 64.35, Udayagiri 72.69, Sarvepalli 72.90.

AP polls marred by violent incidents,many injured

Vijayawada: The simultaneous Assembly and Parliament elections in Andhra Pradesh on Monday were marred by clashes between the YSRC and Telugu Desam activists. The clashes in several districts created tension and several partymen from rival sides were injured before the police could intervene and restore order. The polling started on a smooth note but disputes and clashes occurred in faction prone areas including the Palnadu region. Tension prevailed in Rentala in Macherla constituency and Gurajala of Palandu district following clashes between the TD and YSRC activists. The rival sides used stones and sticks to target their opponents. Some persons were injured. Taking a serious view of the situation, the Election Commission directed the CEO, Mukesh Kumar Meena, to rush additional forces to Rentala and other places in Palnadu and ensure the smooth elections. The clashes were mainly registered in polling booths in Palnadu region and Tenali and Macherla constituencies during the voting. In Macharla, Veldurthi and Loyapalli of Palnadu, assaults were reported outside the polling stations. A young voter in Nizampatnam of Bapatla was injured following a dispute with the YSRC leaders. Sattenapalli, Mokkapadu, Rayvaram and Acchampeta also reported clashes and injuries to many. The atmosphere was more tense in Gurzala, where TD leader Nellore Ramakotiah was attacked by the YSRC members. Kurnool and Prakasam districts saw similar incidents. YSRC men were accused of violence, intimidation and even kidnapping tactics. TD workers attacked the car of YSRC chief agent Umesh, the son-in-law of minister Ambati Rambabu ,while observing the poll process in Narnepadu of Muppallla mandal. In the Mustabada of Gannavaram Assembly segment, stone-pelting by the YSRC and TD supporters damaged the cars of leaders of the two parties. In Pullampeta in Annamayya district, unidentified miscreants entered the polling booths and damaged the EVMs. Tension prevailed for some time in Botlapalem village of Darsi Assembly constituency in Prakasam district, when two groups of voters clashed. The EVMs were damaged. Election officials arranged alternative EVMs and restored the polling process in a short time. The Praksam district election officer Dinesh Kumar ordered action against those responsible for the incident. Central armed forces were deployed to prevent further trouble. Tension prevailed for some time in Annuru village of Karvetinagaram in Chittoor district, when followers of deputy CM Narayana Swamy and TD Assembly candidate Thomas clashed. Similarly, the TD and YSRC activists clashed at Gokarnapalle in Pondur mandal of Amudalavalasa Assembly constituency and two persons were injured. They were shifted to Srikakulam RIMS hospital for treatment and additional forces were deployed. According to the reports, the reason for the clash was that Tamineni Vani, wife of YSRC candidate Tamineni Sitaram, entered the polling booth as a general agent. TD members objected to this at Gokarnapalle. Three polling agents of TD were allegedly kidnapped by the YSRC men in Borakamanda village of Saddum mandal of Punganoor Assembly constituency on Monday morning, even before elections commenced. The police traced them in Pileru and brought them back to Borakamanda. They registered a case based on the complaint lodged by TD district in-charge Jagan Mohan Raju. More incidents of election-related violence included an attack on TDs Lok Sabha candidate Lavu Krishnadevarayulu and his supporters in Dondapadu village of Palnadu district, in which three cars were damaged due to stone-pelting. In Ananthapur district's Tadipatri, YSRC and TD activists engaged in a stone-pelting scuffle, resulting in injuries to a TD supporter and a constable. In a separate incident, approximately 150 people stormed the Vemuluri Venkataratnam College polling booth in Mylavaram constituency. Both YSRC and TD candidates blamed each other for the irregularities and violence.

Voters, political leaders wait in long queues to exercise their franchise in Nellore

Several key candidates, including Nellore MP candidate V. Vijayasai Reddy and his opponent TDPs Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy, cast their votes

Andhra Pradesh: YSRCPs Vijaysai Reddy casts vote in Nellore

The News Mill

Thunderstorms likely in parts of Andhra Pradesh for two days

VIJAYAWADA: Light to moderate rains lashed in isolated parts across the State on Sunday. The highest rainfall of 3.1 cm was reported at Anaparthy of East Godavari district followed by 3 cm rain in Alamuru of Ambedkar Konaseema district. The daytime temperatures continued to dip, below 40 degree Celsius scale, in most of the places in Andhra Pradesh following the overcast sky conditions. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of 30-50 kmph likely at isolated places across the State on Monday and Tuesday. Thunderstorm activity is also predicted in isolated places across the State for the subsequent two days. The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA), in its daily report, stated no heatwave conditions were reported on Sunday and 18 mandals are likely to experience a heatwave on Monday. Gajulapalle in Nandyal district reported the highest daytime temperature of 41.9 degrees Celsius, while Yerrampeta of Alluri Sitarama Raju recorded daytime temperature at 41.1 degrees C, Bottagudur of Prakasam district at 41.3 degrees C, Kamavaram in Kurnool district, and Vepinapi Akumambapuram of Nellore district at 41.2 degrees C.

Andhra Pradesh: Seats that matter

Lok Sabha constituencies Visakhapatnam Three highly educated candidates, Botcha Jhansi Lakshmi of YSRC, Mathukumilli Sribharat of TDP-BJP-JSP alliance, and Pulusu Satyanarayana Reddy of Congress are in the poll fray. Despite the presence of other candidates in the election fray from the key Lok Sabha segment, the main contest is expected to be between Jhansi and Sribharat Rajamahendravaram State BJP chief Daggubati Purandeswari is contesting against YSRCs Guduri Srinivas from the parliamentary segment. She is likely to face a tough fight from Dr Srinivas and Congress nominee Gidugu Rudraraju. Local and non-local issue has come to the fore between the YSRC and NDA candidates as the former is a local, while the latter is a non-local Kadapa APCC chief YS Sharmila, who is also sister of Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, is making her electoral debut from the LS seat. The seat is set to witness a triangular contest among Sharimla, sitting YSRC MP YS Avinash Reddy and Chadipiralla Bhupesh Subbarami Reddy of the TDP-JSP-BJP combine. Jagans home segment Pulivendula comes under the purview of the constituency Nellore YSRCs Venumbaka Vijayasai Reddy and TDPs Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy are locked in a tough fight in the Lok Sabha segment. Both the senior leaders are contesting the direct election for the first time. Vemireddy is a former Rajya Sabha member, while Vijayasai Reddy is a sitting Rajya Sabha MP Srikakulam The YSRC has fielded Perada Tilak from the LS constituency against two-time TDP MP Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu. The constituency is set to witness an intense electoral battle as both the candidates belong to socially dominant groups Vijayawada It is a sibling rivalry in the politically conscious LS segment. Two-time MP Kesineni Srinivas of YSRC has crossed swords with his younger brother Kesineni Sivanath of TDP. Srinivas had shifted his loyalties to YSRC after being denied a TDP ticket Bapatla T Krishna Prasad, a former IPS officer, is contesting from the SC reserved LS constituency as a tripartite alliance candidate against sitting YSRC MP Nandigam Suresh. The segment is set to witness a fierce fight between the as both candidates Kakinada Tangella Uday Srinivas, known as Tea Time Uday of JSP, and Chalamalasetty Sunil of YSRC are in the fray from the LS segment. The JSP has got the seat as part of the alliance with the BJP and TDP. Sunil is contesting for the fourth time Guntur Dr Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani of TDP is facing off against YSRCs Kilari Venkata Rosaiah, who is sitting Ponnur MLA, in the Lok Sabha constituency that falls in the capital region. Pemmasani has emerged as the wealthiest Lok Sabha candidate with a net worth of Rs 5,785 crore Kurnool Basthipati Nagaraju of TDP and BY Ramaiah of YSRC are locked in a tough fight in the constituency. In 2019, S Sanjeev Kumar of YSRC won the seat against Kotla Jaya Surya Prakash Reddy of the TDP. The ruling party has fielded former Kurnool Mayor Ramaiah from the constituency replacing the sitting MP Rajampet Heirs of two prominent political families in Chittoor district are contesting from the Lok Sabha seat. Sitting YSRC MP Peddireddy Midhun Reddy and former Chief Minister of the erstwhile undivided Andhra Pradesh N Kiran Kumar Reddy, who is an NDA candidate, are involved in a keen tussle Narasapuram The parliamentary constituency is set to witness a three-cornered contest among Guduri Umabala of YSRC, Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma (BJP) and Korlapati Brahmananda Rao Naidu of Congress. Umabala, an advocate, is making her electoral debut, while Srinivasa Varma unsuccessfully contested in the last election Narasaraopet Sitting MP Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu of TDP is contesting against Poluboina Anil Kumar Yadav of YSRC. Devarayalu quit the YSRC after being denied ticket by the party to contest from the same segment. Anil Kumar is a sitting MLA of Nellore City, has been fielded from the LS seat as part of YSRCs commitment to social justice Assembly segments Pulivendula YS family has consecutively won the seat for 13 elections, including three by-polls. YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has represented the seat for the last two terms and is now vying for a hat-trick win. Hes contesting against TDPs Mareddy Ravindranath Reddy (BTech Ravi), who defeated YSRs brother YS Vivekananda Reddy in the 2017 MLC elections Kuppam TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu is pitted against YSRCs KRJ Bharat, who is contesting for the first time in an electoral battle. Naidu, who won from this seat for eight consecutive times, is now facing stiff competition as the YSRC is making all out efforts to win the seat. Minister Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy is overlooking the YSRC campaign Dhone This constituency in Nandyal district sees two prominent politicians of YSRC sitting MLA Buggana Rajendranath Reddy and TDP leader and former Union minister Jayasurya Prakash Reddy in the fray. Buggana Rajendranath vying for the seat for the third consecutive time and Jayasurya Prakash bringing decades of experience to the table, spiking political heat in the constituency Tekkali The segment has been a TDP bastion since its inception with the party winning the seat eight times so far. Sitting MLA and TDP state unit president Kinjarapu Atchannaidu faces off YSRCs Duvvada Srinivas. Atchannaidu is vying for the seat for third time, while Duvvada tasted defeat in 2014 and 2019 Pithapuram The segment has emerged as a high-profile battleground as JSP chief Pawan Kalyan is contesting against YSRCs Kakinada MP Vanga Geetha. Pawan, who lost previous elections, aims for assembly entry banking on his cult following Mangalagiri TDP national general secretary Nara Lokesh is facing YSRCs Murugudu Lavanya, a political novice. Lokesh, after the defeat in 2019, is contesting from the same segment to prove himself as a strong leader in State politics Tenali YSRC sitting MLA Annabathuna Siva Kumar is contesting against JSP Political Affairs Committee (PAC) chairperson Nadendla Manohar, who is a two-time MLA from the segment and former speaker of AP Legislative assembly Gudivada YSRC sitting MLA Kodali Venkateswara Rao (Kodali Nani) is facing TDP Venigadla Ramu. Nani is a four-time MLA with a strong fold, while TDP has a great impact as TDP founder and former CM NTR had won from the segment two times Gajuwaka Intense battle is on the cards in the segment between YSRC candidate and IT Minister Gudivada Amarnath and TDPs Palla Srinivas Rao. In 2019, JSP chief Pawan Kalyan unsuccessfully contested from the segment. In 2019, Tippala Nagi Reddy secured the seat on behalf of YSRC Gannavaram The Assembly segment is set for a heated electoral contest between two-time YSRC MLA Vallabhaneni Vamsi Mohan, seeking a third consecutive term and businessman-turned-politician Yarlagadda Venkata Rao, vying the seat behalf of TDP for his first win after one previous attempt in the 2019 elections Bheemili YSRC sitting MLA Muthamsetti Srinivas, popularly known as Avanthi Srinivas, is facing TDPs Ganta Srinivasa Rao. For the fourth time Avanthi Srinivas is contesting from the constituency. Ganta Srinivasa Rao is a former MLA of TDP from Visakhapatnam North Assembly and worked as Human Resources Minister during the TDP regime Cheepurupalli Education Minister and sitting MLA Botcha Satyanarayana is contesting against former MLA and TDP leader Kimidi Kala Venkata Rao, who won Unukuru Assembly seat four times. Satyanarayana vying for the seat for the fourth time from the segment. Both of the contestants holds a strong political grip in the region Visakhapatnam South YSRC sitting MLA Vasupalli Ganesh Kumar is contesting from the segment while JSP fielded MLC Vamsi Krishna Yadav as the candidate for the segment. Ganesh is eying for a hat-trick win from the segment, He previously secured victories in the 2014 and 2019 elections under the Telugu Desam Party banner

Note for vote rampant in Andhra Pradesh

VIJAYAWADA: Soon after the silence period started at 6 pm on Saturday drawing curtains on the nearly two month-long intense election campaign in the State, Assembly and Lok Sabha contestants got busy luring voters with cash and kind to win the elections. Though election commission observers, district authorities, flying squads and local police have intensified vigil to curb electoral malpractices, agents belonging to both the ruling YSRC and tripartite alliance leaders are said to be distributing money to the voters urging them to vote in favour of their candidates on Monday. The amount seems to be ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 10,000, and the other inducements include costly gifts such as sarees and electronic gadgets. In prestigious Assembly segments like Pithapuram, Mangalagiri, Kuppam, Pulivendula, Vijayawada Central, Mylavaram, Gudivada, Undi, Bhimavaram, Gannavaram, Darsi, Chirala, Nellore, Kavali, Ongole, Kakinada, Eluru, Hindupur, Nagari and Tirupati, the agents of contestants are said to be ready to offer any amount of money. The offering for vote is said to be quite high in Vijayawada, Guntur, Kadapa and other Lok Sabha constituencies where the heavyweights of YSRC and TDP-JSP-BJP combine are in fray. While cash is being directly distributed to the voters at their houses at some places, in other places representatives of contestants are issuing coupons to avoid police vigil. The coupons can be exchanged at designated shops in villages or towns for cash. The coupon mode is to avoid being caught by police or election commission observers. Agents are visiting the houses of voters secretly and giving money requesting them to cast their votes in favour of the respective parties, said Rushi of Gurunanak Colony. In segments where the biggies are contesting, the amount being spent has allegedly crossed an all time high. Since Pithapuram is being considered prestigious for the NDA with JSP chief Pawan Kalyan in the fray, voters are being lured by offering huge amounts as there are better chances of YSRC candidate Vanga Geethas win in the election, said a local on the condition of anonymity. In Satyanarayanapuram of Vijayawada Central segment, a milk vendor was seen discussing with his customers about the cash distribution by the agents of contestants. They are giving Rs 1,000 per vote, but only to the selected voters. They even came to my house, but I refused. I came to know that the other party too is offering the same, he said. The woman, he was speaking to, admitted that she too received Rs 1,000 per vote, but expressed dissatisfaction over the discrimination in cash distribution. She complained that her cousin, living on the hillocks in One Town, which falls in Vijayawada West constituency, was given Rs 3,000. It is learnt that in Jaggaiahpet, cash distribution commenced on Saturday afternoon with election agents of contestants visiting the identified houses and giving Rs 1,000 in both urban and rural areas. However, some people bargained and got Rs 1,500 per vote, sources said. Meanwhile, there are allegations that the election commission officials and police turned a blind eye to the rampant distribution of money across the State despite complaints by agents of both the ruling and opposition parties.

Tirupati: Poll-Duty Mother, Son Killed on Railway Track

Tirupati: A mother and son lost their lives while crossing a railway track in Kavali Nellore district on Sunday. The victims, Butta Subhashini, 55, an Anganwadi worker, and her 19-year-old son Vijay, hailed from Chaganam village. Subhashini was en route to perform her poll duties. She was assigned to Kavali by election authorities and was accompanied by her son. While attempting to cross the tracks, a train struck them, resulting in their deaths, police said. Witnesses reported that Subhashini did not see the approaching train and stepped onto the track. Vijay tried to save her but both were hit by the train and died. The government railway police have registered the case and further investigation is underway.

Illegal distribution of money rampant ahead of elections

Political parties are giving away 2,000 to 3,000 per vote, say sources; ESMS data suggest the seizure of 2.57 crore cash, liquor worth 1.77 crore, 88.62 lakh worth gold and other metals ahead of elections in Nellore district

Polling to be monitored live through webcasting in Nellore

Collector and District Election Officer M. Hari Narayanan monitors the arrangements at various polling stations on Sunday

Andhra Pradesh's Nellore Lok Sabha Election 2024: Date of voting, result, candidates, main parties, schedule

Nellore Lok Sabha constituency in Andhra Pradesh, India, has upcoming elections on 13th May 2024, with results announced by the Election Commission on 4th June.

Lok Sabha election 2024 full schedule: Begusarai to vote in phase 4 on May 13

Election Commission announces 2024 Lok Sabha election schedule. Begusarai's Phase 4 polling on May 13 with prominent candidates. Details on previous Nellore winners. Update covers key parties and result date.

Two-month long poll campaign comes to an end in Andhra Pradesh

VIJAYAWADA: The lengthy election campaign in Andhra Pradesh came to an end on Saturday evening and the 48-hour mandatory silence period commenced. The State is going to both the Assembly and Lok Sabha polls on Monday. The nearly two-month-long election campaigning that commenced in the second fortnight of March, saw leaders of both the ruling YSRC and Opposition TDP and its allies JSP and BJP covering the length and breadth of the State several rounds to woo voters. Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy covered the State in two rounds of election campaign. He commenced his election campaign on March 27 with Memantha Siddham Bus Yatra and later addressed election rallies at different places campaigning for his party candidates. In all, he visited 106 Assembly constituencies, addressed 50 public meetings, and conducted roadshows in several towns. On the other hand, TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu addressed as many as 89 meetings covering all the districts, conducting 3-5 meetings in each one. He also addressed election rallies along with JSP chief Pawan Kalyan. His son Nara Lokesh though confined to Mangalagiri in earlier days of campaign, later addressed Yuva Galam meetings at several Assembly constituencies. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the State thrice, addressed four election rallies at Chilakaluripet, Rajamahendravaram, Anakapalle and Kalikiri in Rajampet Lok Sabha constituency, and took part in a massive roadshow in Vijayawada. Union Ministers Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh also addressed election rallies in the State. Pawan Kalyan too addressed election rallies in 21 Assembly constituencies from where his party candidates are contesting, besides takin part in public meetings with Naidu and Modi. MLA candidates from different parties were actively engaged in electioneering, conducting door-to-door visits and other modes to reach out to the people. During the last two months, Visakhapatnam and North Coastal Districts, including Anakapalle, Alluri Sitarama Raju, Vizianagaram and Srikakulam, have witnessed a surge in political campaigning as top leaders descended upon Uttarandhra. With much emphasis on development and job creation, all parties vied for attention in the largest city of the State. Jagan reiterated his commitment of making Visakhapatnam the executive capital during a roadshow, while Naidu and other alliance leaders emphasised employment opportunities and development. The high-profile campaigners included Modi, Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, who addressed public meetings and took part in interactions with the people. Despite scorching summer, candidates actively campaigned both offline and online to reach out to people. The online presence of candidates, notably Visakhapatnam Lok Sabha nominee M Sribharat and Botcha Jhansi, and VV Lakshminarayana of Jai Bharat National Party, garnered attention as they utilised social media platforms like Instagram for promotions and interviews. This surge in political campaigning efforts online mirrored the heightened activities on the ground, shaping the political landscape in Andhra Pradesh over the past few months. The YSRC and the TDP-JSP-BJP alliance left no stone unturned to secure a significant victory, especially in Rayalaseema and the undivided Nellore district. Star campaigners were deployed to spearhead the electioneering, underscoring the importance of these areas in the electoral landscape. Candidates from various political parties have adopted a novel approach to their campaigns by incorporating a feminine touch, with many accompanied by women from their families during door-to-door canvassing. While these family members may lack the polished oratory skills of seasoned politicians, their presence exuded authenticity and sincerity, resonating with voters on a personal level.

Teach Vijayasai Reddy a Lesson, Vemireddy Tells Nellore Voters

Tirupati: Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy, the NDAs candidate for the Nellore Parliamentary constituency, has launched a scathing attack on YSRC MP V. Vijayasai Reddy, accusing him of looting Visakhapatnam and now eyeing Nellore for the same. He urged the Nellore voters to teach Vijayasai Reddy a lesson in the upcoming elections. During a road show in Kovvur town, accompanied by the party's MLA candidate for Kovvur segment, Vemireddy Prasanthi Reddy, Prabhakar criticised Vijayasai for allegedly building a private university in Vizag through unrighteous means. Vijayasai Reddy calls us millionaires. But he is not acknowledging that the money we earned is through rightful means, while his money came from corruption, he said. Labelling the YSRC nominee for the Nellore MP seat as a non-local, Vemireddy claimed that after the elections, Vijayasai Reddy would disappear from the region, leaving the people behind. The Vemireddy couple promised to create employment opportunities for the youth and ensure that the pending salaries of workers at the Kovvur Sugar Factory would be paid if the NDA voted to power at the Centre and the state. Chandrababu Naidu-led state government is coming to power. With Chandrababu being the brand ambassador for development, the state will achieve significant development with the NDA's double-engine government, they said. Prasanthi Reddy expressed anguish at witnessing the hardships of villagers firsthand during the 45-day election campaign across nearly 85 villages in the Kovvur segment. She promised to transform Kovvur into an agricultural hub where crops would thrive and assured that every promise made during the elections would be fulfilled.

AP elections 2024: Intense battle in Dhone and Kurnool

Kurnool: Fierce electoral battles are on in five constituencies in the combined Kurnool district, namely Kurnool city, Pathikonda, Srisailam, Banaganapalle and Dhone. In Dhone, part of Nandyal, an intriguing political battle is unfolding between finance minister Buggana Rajendranath of the YSR Congress and former central minister and Telugu Desam national vice president Kotla Jayasuryaprakash Reddy. Buggana is emphasizing the development initiatives at a total cost of `3,000 crore that he spearheaded in the constituency over the past five years. These helped resolve the water and infrastructure deficiencies, he claims. The minister is questioning the sudden appearance of the opposition candidate, who is allegedly fostering factionalism. Kotla Prakash Reddy contends that there have been very little of improvements in the constituency in the past five years other than some tourism-related initiatives. He is consolidating the support of his old allies and supporters, aligning with the KE and Subba Reddy groups for his electoral success. The intense electoral fight between the two candidates has enlivened the local political scenario. In Kurnool city, retired bureaucrat A Md Imtiaz is the YSRC nominee. Chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy is personally trying to garner the support of the Muslim voters to his candidate. However, rumors spread about the absence of local legislator MA Hafeez Khan on the campaign front in the constituency this time. Instead, he was campaigning in Nellore. This raised doubts about a lack of coordination among the YSRC leaders. Nonetheless, Hafeez Khan did attend the CMs road show in the city on Thursday. The opposition candidate TG Bharath is focusing public attention on his native roots and urging voters to trust a local candidate who has remained committed to the constituency even after a defeat in the previous polls. He argues that the newly arrived candidate, his rival, may scoot from the scene if he faced defeat. In Pathikonda, sitting legislator K Sridevi faces strong opposition from KE family member KE Shyam Kumar, who suffered defeat in the last polls. The KE family is campaigning vigorously for its candidate's victory, while Sridevi faces criticism due to the actions of her supporters. Srisailam and Banaganapalle constituencies are also witnessing major electoral fights, with sitting legislators allegedly facing anti-incumbency sentiments. The opposition candidates are attempting to capitalize on this situation to garner mass support.

Will build Smart Nellore that can provide thriving job opportunities, says P. Narayana

With the TDP promising 20 lakh jobs after coming to power, Narayana eyes a chunk of them for the youth in Nellore

Heavyweights Vemireddy, Vijayasai Reddy to battle it out in Nellore

NELLORE : Amidst the savory aroma of Nellores renowned Chepala Pulusu, a fierce political showdown unfolds in the Lok Sabha constituency. As the countdown to polling day on May 13 nears, the political temperature is soaring in the constituency with two heavyweights, TDPs Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy and YSRCs Venumbaka Vijayasai Reddy, locked in a fierce battle. Despite their two-decade-long presence in the State politics, Vemireddy and Vijayasai Reddy are making their debut in the battle for ballots. Vemireddy is a former Rajya Sabha member, while Vijayasai Reddy, is serving as a member of the Rajya Sabha. Vemireddy took an early lead, kicking off his election campaign ahead of others with various outreach programmes in the constituency. He has been nursing his constituency even when he was in the YSRC. However, amidst a series of political developments, Vemireddy, along with his wife and former TTD Board member Vemireddy Prashanthi Reddy, joined the TDP. Prashanthi Reddy, is contesting from Kovur Assembly segment, which is a part of Nellore parliamentary constituency. To make Nellore parliamentary constituency a role model for others, I envision implementing various development programmes, leveraging the areas vast resources and expansive coastal region. These programmes will create employment opportunities for the youth. Given Nellores strategic location as a gateway to Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, investing in infrastructure and facilities will catalyze development, said Vemireddy. Plans include establishing a special office in Nellore City, dedicated to serving constituents and ensuring accountability. Regardless of my location as an MP, my commitment to service remains unwavering. Focusing on the districts interests, I will advocate for vital projects such as national highways, bridges, and beautification of beaches, securing funds through parliamentary efforts, he said. However, political analysts are surprised when the ruling YSRC appointed Vijayasai Reddy as the Nellore Lok Sabha segment incharge and subsequently nominated him to contest from this seat. Vijayasai Reddy, however, is confident of winning the election. He said, Completing the Somasila High-Level Canal on a war-footing to provide irrigation water to one lakh acres and drinking water to 2.5 lakh people and setting up 40 mega godowns with a storage capacity of one lakh tonnes through public-private partnership are his priorities. I am aiming to strengthen Nellores economic ecosystem in the next five years to provide higher income to farmers, farm labourers, traders, and those involved in the transportation system. Building a world-class sports complex at Mogallapalli near Nellore City at a cost of `250 crore in 150 acres and sponsoring foreign education for 100 economically disadvantaged students are also my promises. With the Congress nominating former Nellore Collector Koppula Raju as its candidate, it may pose a challenge to the ruling YSRCs prospects in the area. While the Congress may not be a strong contender for victory, its presence could potentially impact the chances of the YSRC. Following the States bifurcation, the Congress witnessed a significant decline in its voting percentage, dropping to 1.42% in 2014 and further to 0.78% in 2019, which was even lower than the NOTA option at 1.33%. The YSRC largely absorbed the Congress voter base in the previous elections, and a similar scenario was expected in 2024. However, the selection of Koppula Raju with a positive reputation as the Congress candidate for the Nellore Lok Sabha seat is seen as a strategic move. Historically, the TDP has won Nellore Lok Sabha seat twice, with Puchalapalli Penchalaiah securing victory in 1984 and Vukkala Rajeswaramma in 1999. However, it faced defeat on six occasions, notably in 2009 when TDP nominee Vanteru Venugopal Reddy lost to Congress candidate Mekapati Rajamohan Reddy by a margin of 54,993 votes. In subsequent elections, the TDP faced defeats in 2012, 2014 and 2019, with YSRC candidates emerging victorious. In 2012, YSRC nominee Rajamohan Reddy secured a substantial margin of victory over TDP candidate Venugopala Reddy. Similarly, in 2014, YSRCs Rajamohan Reddy narrowly defeated TDPs Adala Prabhakara Reddy. In 2019, YSRCs Prabhakara Reddy defeated TDPs Beeda Masthan Rao by a significant margin.The YSRCs success in the 2014 and 2019 elections was attributed to the sympathy factor for former Chief Minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy and the popularity of YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. However, the TDP believes that the political landscape has changed since the previous elections, with growing dissatisfaction among the populace towards the governance of the YSRC, leading to anti-incumbency sentiments in the State. Vemireddys presence has bolstered the TDPs strength in Nellore City, Nellore Rural, Udayagiri, Kavali and Kandukur Assembly segments. Additionally, the presence of the Congress in the fray could potentially split votes, further benefiting the TDP. While the YSRC swept the last general elections in Nellore in 2019 by winning all 10 Assembly seats, the elections pose a challenge to the ruling party. Anti-incumbency sentiments against the ruling party legislators, coupled with internal discord, are emerging as significant concerns affecting their electoral prospects. Nellore district predominantly comprises leaders from Reddy and Kapu (Balija locally) communities. The Somasila reservoir, situated across the river Penna near Somasila village in Ananthasagaram mandal of Atmakur segment has the capacity to receive water by gravity from Srisailam reservoir, making it one of the largest reservoirs in the Penna river basin. Despite this potential, farmers in the region faced irrigation water scarcity during the last season. The Somasila High-Level canal project, intended to supply irrigation water from the Somasila reservoir, remains pending, with no significant progress in execution in recent years. This canal is crucial for meeting the irrigation and drinking water needs of the people in several upland mandals in Atmakur and Udayagiri Assembly segments. The High-Level Canal caters to the needs of irrigation and drinking water for more than three upland mandals of Atmakur and Udayagiri segments. Both TDP and YSRC have neglected the completion of this crucial project in the region, said KN Swamy, a farmer from Marripadu. Problems galore in upland mandals Farmers in Marripadu and Atmakur mandals, which are major tobacco-producing areas in Atmakur Assembly constituency, face challenges due to drought conditions. People of drought-prone areas in Udayagiri segment, including Vinjamur, Duttalur, Seetharamapuram, Kaligiri, Jaladanki and Varikuntapadu mandals, struggle to access drinking water with no concrete proposals to address the issue. However, Juvvaladinne fishing harbour is all set to cater the needs of fishermen

Vedagiri temple Brahmotsavam to begin from May 16

The officials of all departments should work in coordination to organise Brahmotsavam grandly, says Nellore RDO A. Malola

Intra-party rivalry to the fore in TDP in Nellore district

The police bring the situation under control; none injured in the incident

Andhra Pradesh: Educationists in poll fray

Muttamsetti Srinivasa Rao, YSRC The sitting YSRC MLA, who is popular as Avanthi Srinivas, is the founder of Avanthi Educational Society, which runs several educational institutions, including Avanthi Degree & PG College and Avanthi Institute of Engineering & Technology. He is contesting from Bheemili against his mentor Ganta Srinivasa Rao of TDP. Ponguru Narayana, TDP The former MLC is the founder of Narayana Group of Educational Institutions. He unsuccessfully contested from Nellore City Assembly constituency on TDP ticket in the last election against P Anil Kumar Yadav of YSRC. He is contesting again from the same constituency against Mohammad Khaleel Ahmed of YSRC. Mathukumilli Sribharat, TDP The president of GITAM (Deemed to be University) and the founder of Kautilya School of Public Policy is contesting from Visakhapatnam Lok Sabha constituency. In the last election, the TDP nominee suffered defeat by a narrow margin. Now, Botcha Jhansi of YSRC is his rival in the election. Mathukumilli Sribharat Palle Sindhura Reddy, TDP She is the treasurer of PVKK Educational Institutions in Anantapur district, while her husband Palle Venkata Krishna Kishore Reddy is its chairman. Daughter-in-law of Palle Raghunatha Reddy, she is in the election fray from Putthaparthi against D Sreedhar Reddy of YSRC Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu, TDP The sitting Narasaraopet MP is the vice-chairman of Vignan Group of Institutions. He quit the YSRC and joined the TDP after being denied ticket for the same Lok Sabha segment. For the second time, he is contesting from Narasaraopet Lok Sabha constituency on TDP ticket against P Anil Kumar Yadav of YSRC Annabathuni Siva Kumar, YSRC The sitting YSRC MLA is the chairman of ASN Educational Institutions, which runs ASN Degree & PG College, ASN Womens Engineering College and ASN Pharmacy College. For the second consecutive time, he is contesting from Tenali Assembly constituency against JSP Political Affairs Committee chairperson Nadendla Manohar Annabathuni Siva Kumar

Tirupati Lok Sabha constituency never a TDP stronghold

TIRUPATI : As the polling day is less than a week away, the major contestants have intensified their election campaign in Tirupati Lok Sabha constituency to reach out to the people. The Tirupati Lok Sabha (SC reserved) constituency has posed a significant challenge to the TDP since its inception as the party won the seat only once in the last four decades that too in 1984, that ultimately saw the candidate defecting to the Congress. Once a bastion of the Congress, Tirupati has witnessed a remarkable shift in political allegiance post bifurcation of the State, with the YSRC clinching victories in 2014, 2019 and the 2021 byelection. The YSRC is leaving no stone unturned to maintain its winning streak. Sitting YSRC MP M Gurumoorthy is determined to retain the seat at any cost. On the other hand, the tripartite alliance has fielded Velagapalli Varaprasad Rao, a former YSRC legislator, who recently joined the BJP, in a bid to challenge the YSRCs dominance. The Tirupati parliamentary constituency comprising Gudur and Sullurpeta (SC reserved), Sarvepalli, Venkatagiri, Srikalahasti, Satyavedu and Tirupati Assembly segments, holds political significance. Its first MP, Madabhushi Ananthasayanam Ayyangar, who was elected in 1952, rose to become the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. Despite occasional alliance with the BJP as part of its election strategy, the TDP show has been virtually dismal. In contrast, the Congress has established a formidable presence, winning the seat 12 times out of the total 17 elections held since 1952. Chinta Mohan, former Union minister, has witnessed the decline of the Congress electoral fortunes in recent elections, despite its past glory. However, undeterred by successive defeats in recent elections, he has launched a spirited campaign, advocating for Tirupatis elevation to the status of a capital city as a Congress nominee in the election. In 2019, major political parties had fielded candidates hailing from Nellore to win the Lok Sabha seat. They concentrated on Gudur, Sarvepalli, Venkatagiri and Sullurpeta Assembly segments, which fall in Nellore district, as part of the strategy to win the Lok Sabha seat. It is interesting to see whether the YSRC will retain Tirupati Lok Sabha seat or the tripartite alliance will grab it in the election, a political analyst observed.

Jagan Mohan Reddy should continue as CM: Vijayasai

NELLORE : YSRC Lok Sabha candidate V Vijayasai Reddy has underlined the need for re-electing YS Jagan Mohan Reddy as Chief Minister to ensure the continuation of good governance in the State. During his election campaign in Ulavapadu of Kandukur Assembly constituency, he cautioned the people against the potential repercussions of a TDP victory, warning that it could jeopardise existing welfare schemes and hinder the implementation of promised initiatives. He slammed TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu for his disparaging remarks against Jagan, and questioned Naidus 40-year experience in politics, particularly regarding his lack of respect for others. Refuting the opposition claim of inadequate development and welfare in the last five years, he provided statistics that shows 87% of households getting benefited from the welfare programmes. He promised to get a mango research centre, a processing unit and a cold storage with a significant investment set up in Ulavapadu. Attracting huge investments, Nellore will be made an industrial and IT hub, he vowed.

Rains Lash AP, Lightning Kills 3

Visakhapatnam: Moderate to heavy rains accompanied by thunder and lightning struck parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema districts in Andhra Pradesh during the last 24 hours claiming three lives. However, the rains provided the much-needed reprieve from the searing heat wave that had engulfed the state since the last two weeks. Nandyal, Kurnool, Kadapa and Anantapur recorded average temperature of 42 degrees Celsius. A 41-year-old Parasa Rama Rao died on the spot when lightning struck him at Yadavalli village under Lingapalem mandal in Eluru district. Rama Rao was grazing cattle near a field when the incident took place. In another incident, lightning killed a woman Bondala Nagendramma (52) and her 25 year old daughter Y Nagarani when they were returning from a farm field at Vutukuru under Krosuru mandal of Palnadu district. A trough running from east Vidarbha to south Tamil Nadu brought rains and thunderstorms in the state on Tuesday. The system is set to bring more rains on Wednesday Normal life was thrown out of gear and more than six places reported mild water logging, with trees and power poles uprooted at few localities as heavy rain accompanied with gusty winds lashed at Rajahmundry town in East Godavari district on Tuesday. An unexpected hailstorm brought cheers to the people in a few villages under Chintapalli and Paderu mandals in ASR district. Though the rains have brought down the mercury levels by 2 to 6 degree Celsius on Tuesday, the summer rain caused damage to chili, maize, and mango crops in parts of the state. The IMD said Vemagiri in Rajahmundry recorded 12.4 cm rain, Palasa (Srikakulam district) and Palamaner (Chittoor district) recorded 6 cm rainfall each between Monday night and Tuesday morning, followed by 5 cm each in Tekkali (Srikakulam), Atmakur (Nandyal) and 4 cm in Arogyavaram (Annamayya). Parvathipuram (Manyam), Madanapalle (Annamayya), Atlur (Kadapa) and some places in the state recorded rainfall between 1 cm and 3 cm. The IMD has predicted moderate rainfall and thundershowers at few places across the state on May 8 (Wednesday) which include Chittoor, Annamayya and Tirupati districts of Rayalaseema region and Nellore. ASR and Srikakulam district of CAP will receive heavy rainfall.

AICC observer hopes comeback in Andhra Pradesh with Manoj Chauhan

VIJAYAWADA: AICC election observer for Andhra Pradesh Manoj Chauhan, who has been touring the State for the last 39 days, exudes confidence in the Congress party making a mark in the 2024 elections in Andhra Pradesh and emerging as the only peoples friendly party. In an interview with S Guru Srikanth, Manoj Chauhan said the vote share of the party will increase considerably. It is less than a week until the elections to be held in the State. How bright are the chances of Congress in Andhra Pradesh? Absolutely good chances. In the 2019 elections, our partys vote share was less than 2%, to be exact it was 1.7%. But, today it has increased to 10% and above. Since my visit to Andhra Pradesh at the end of March I have been covering various places across the State. There is an increasing feeling that Congress is better than other political parties. You mean to say the Congress party is making a comeback? Yes. It is being revived. We have an absolutely good chance in Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency and the party is also faring well in Tirupati, Kakinada, Rajamahendravaram, Bapatla, Nellore, and a few more seats. As regards to Assembly constituencies, we have a fair chance in 35 Assembly constituencies. Whom do you give the credit for the revival? Rahul Gandhi and the Congress Partys five NyayYuva Nyay, Nari Nyay, Sharmik Nyay, Kisan Nyay, and Bhagidhari Nyay. Also the 25 guarantees. Ours is the only party, which has promised the Special Category Status to Andhra Pradesh and made it part of the manifesto. No other party has done it. Further, we have a track record of implementing the promises made, as evident in Karnataka, Telangana, and other places. How do you see the other parties contending for power in the State? As you said, it is a contention for power. Be it NDA or YSRC, they are only looking to get power. But Congress wants to serve people. There is a difference. During the election rally in Dharmavaram, Union Home Minister Amit Shah posed a question, who will be the PM candidate of the INDIA alliance? Rahul Gandhi. When will the star campaigners of the Congress party be in the State? From May 7 to 11, a host of Congress leaders including Rahul Gandhi, AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge, Telangana CM A Revanth Reddy, Karnataka deputy CM DK Shivakumar will address election rallies.

Free OP services at Guntur NATCO Cancer Care Centre from next week

GUNTUR: As NATCO Cancer Care Centre at Guntur Government General Hospital (GGH) has been receiving overwhelming response from thousands of patients for providing exceptional services, the hospital management has decided to start outpatient services to the patients from next week. Speaking on the occasion, hospital superintendent Dr Kiran Kumar said that the facility has become a one-stop solution for free cancer treatment, and various services available at the hospital expanded to radiation, medical and surgical oncology, nuclear medicine, and radiotherapy. Over 25 oncology professors, assistant doctors, and junior assistant doctors are providing super-specialty treatment to the patients. Following this, free OP services will be available to patients in medical oncology on Monday and Thursday, radiation oncology on Tuesday, and Friday and surgical oncology on Wednesday and Saturday every week. Patients from the neighbouring districts, including Prakasam, Nellore, Krishna, and Eluru districts have been choosing this facility for cancer treatment. The centre is the first comprehensive cancer facility in Andhra Pradesh. It is located in 1.6 acres of land on the premises of Guntur GGH with state-of-art infrastructure. As many as 110 beds are available, ICU department, ten outpatient wards, a comprehensive lab, surgical operating rooms, and a conference hall were constructed with Rs 50 crores. In the past two years, the services available at the hospital expanded to radiation, medical, and surgical oncology, nuclear medicine, and radiotherapy. Modern equipment including the Varian Vitalbeam Linear Accelerator worth `12 crore, Brachy Therapy, and CT Stimulator worth `5 crore, a mammography machine worth `2 crore are available at the hospital which helps to cure cancer patients. Starting from diagnosis to treatment, all tests, medicines, and therapies are free of cost for patients and the OP services will benefit them to a great extent, opined Dr Kiran Kumar.

Heatwave conditions likely in 21 mandals of Andhra Pradesh

VIJAYAWADA : As many as 21 mandals in the State are likely to experience heatwave on Tuesday and chances of mercury levels dropping in the next couple of days are high. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday forecasted a hot, humid, and discomfort weather likely in isolated places across the State on Tuesday. The Met Department predicted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of speeds 40-50 kmph are likely at isolated places across the State for the same period. On Monday, AP experienced hot and humid conditions with daytime temperatures above 40 degrees C at most places. APSDMA on Monday stated that 12 mandals experienced severe heatwave, and 112 mandals reported heatwave. Banaganapalle in the Nandyal and Manga Nellore in the Tirupati have recorded the highest daytime temperature of 45.5 degrees C, followed by Panchalingala in the Kurnool, Vallur in the YSR at 45.1 degrees C, Tarlapadu in Prakasam district at 44.9 degrees C, Ravipadu n Palnadu district at 44.6 degrees C, Gonupalle in Nellore district at 44.4 degrees C, Tarimella of Anantapur district at 44.3 degrees Celsius.

Nellore's political terrain: Dynasties holding sway since first polls in 1955

Tirupati: As Nellore district braces for the present elections, the political scene remains firmly under the grip of prominent dynasties that have held sway over public life ever since Andhra Pradesh's first assembly polls in 1955. Cutting across party affiliations, these families have garnered significant support from the local populace, allowing them to retain their hold over the region through generations. In the upcoming electoral contest, scions of the influential families of Anam, Mekapati, Nedurumalli, Nallapureddy etc are poised to test their mettle in the constituencies of Atmakur, Venkatagiri, Kovur and Sarvepalle, making these battles particularly intriguing. The Anam family, entrenched in district politics for over eight decades, saw Anam Chenchu Subbareddy initiating the process. He was succeeded by his grandsons Ramnarayana Reddy and Vivekananda Reddy. Anam Ramanarayana Reddy, a seasoned legislator, secured wins in 1983 (Nellore), 1985 and 1999 (Rapur) under the Telugu Desam banner; in 2004 and 2009 (Atmakur) under the Congress flag, and in 2019 (Venkatagiri) as the YSRC nominee. Having served as a minister in the cabinets of several chief ministers, Anam now seeks the Atmakur seat on a TD ticket. The Mekapati family, led by Mekapati Rajamohan Reddy, has a strong political legacy with electoral wins in Udayagiri (1985), Ongole (1989), Narasaraopet (1998), and Nellore (2009), followed also by the win in a 2012 by-election in Nellore. Goutham Reddy succeeded his father, winning Atmakur in 2014 and 2019 for the YSRC. After Goutham's death, his brother Vikram Reddy won the Atmakur by-poll and is now running for the YSRC in the same constituency. The Nedurumalli family, too, has left an indelible mark on the state's political canvas. Congress stalwart Nedurumalli Janardhan Reddy served as chief minister from 1990 to 1992 and was later elected as MP from Bapatla, Narasaraopet and Visakhapatnam. His son, Ramkumar Reddy, first shifted his allegiances to the BJP in 2014 before eventually joining the YSRC. He has now been fielded by Jagan Reddy from the Venkatagiri segment. Nallapareddy Prasanna Kumar Reddy, a six-term MLA and YSRC nominee, wields formidable clout in the region. His family has held sway over the Kovur assembly segment for over four decades, with both Prasanna Kumar Reddy and his father, Nallapareddy Srinivasulu Reddy having served as ministers. This time, Prasanna Kumar faces a challenge from TDs newcomer Vemireddy Prashanthi Reddy. Another seasoned campaigner, Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy, who tasted success twice in seven attempts, is locked in a fierce contest on a TD ticket from Sarvepalli. He is facing a formidable challenge from his long-standing political rival and YSRC minister, Kakani Govardhan Reddy. Despite contesting polls seven times, Somireddy savoured success only twice. He is making his eighth bid this time.

Nandyal Sizzles at 46 Degrees Celsius, Rain Expected in South Coastal AP

Visakhapatnam: Even as heavy rain is forecast for Tuesday, Nandyal blazed at a scorching 46C on Monday, topping the national temperature charts. In contrast, hailstorms in ASR and Parvathipuram Manyam districts brought down temperatures there. Nandyal's temperature soared 5.60C above normal.Following Nandyal were Kadapa at 45.40C (departure 4.50C), Kurnool at 45.30C (departure 4.80C), and Arogyavaram at 410C (departure 5.20C). Compared to the previous day, temperatures rose across many locations. Visakhapatnam recorded the coolest temperature at 34.50C, followed by Kalingapatnam in Srikakulam at 34.60C. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) Amaravati reported light rains in Rayalaseema, but they had no significant impact on temperatures. Chintapalli in ASR district and Parvathipuram experienced hailstorms, the IMD added.Heavy rain is expected to lash south coastal Andhra Pradesh from Tuesday onwards, including Nellore, Prakasam, Tirupati, Chittoor, Palnadu, Eluru, and East Godavari districts.

Sharmila questions CM Jagan Reddy about price rise in Andhra Pradesh

NELLORE: In an open letter addressed to Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, APCC chief YS Sharmila Reddy has raised pertinent questions about rising prices in the State, and demanded accountability from the YSRC government. She highlighted the governments failure to initiate any concrete measures to control the rising prices of essential commodities, particularly regarding the promised Rs 3,000 crore Price Stabilisation Fund for farmers. The APCC chief also found fault with the governments decision to increase power tariff, prices of fuel and liquor, RTC bus fare, university fees, contrary to its promise of bringing them down. She expressed dismay over the lack of improvement in educational standards despite the university fee hike. She also mentioned the adverse impact of the drastic increase in sand prices on the construction sector, affecting the livelihoods of lakhs of workers. The APCC chief deplored the significant rise in taxes. The disappearance of several essential commodities from fair price shops was also raised in the open letter to Jagan. She launched a scathing attack on the YSRC government at an election meeting in Kovuru Assembly constituency. She depicted Jagans regime as a kingdom of thieves and plunder where the entire State has become mafia-ridden. Its a mafia raj of sand, soil, liquor and silica, she observed, accusing the YSRC government of prioritising murder politics over development in the past five years. The Congress will secure Special Category Status for Andhra Pradesh for 10 years if it is voted to power, she vowed. Jagan is not the true heir of YSRs legacy. If he were, why didnt he implement YSRs ideals? When YSR provided lakhs of jobs, Jagan has betrayed the unemployed youth, she said.

CM Jagan Woos Muslims, Says He Firmly Backs 4 Per Cent Reservations for Them

Vijayawada: Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy as president of the YSR Congress is concentrating his attention on minority votes in 62 assembly constituencies where they are the deciding factor in the present assembly and LS polls in the state. These constituencies, out of the total 175, have the highest and moderate voting percentages supporting 4 per cent Muslim reservations. Jagan Reddy pushed Telugu Desam chief Nara Chandrababu into a quandary by daring the TD chief to raise the Muslim reservation issue in front of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the three-party alliances election meetings in AP. Jagan Reddy said, On one hand, Chandrababu Naidu joined hands with the BJP, which promised to remove the 4 per cent reservation for Muslims. Conversely, in an attempt to secure votes from the minority community, Naidu resorts to a deceitful act of false affection, further betraying Muslims. I boldly assert this today: The 4 per cent reservation for Muslims must remain intact. This is my firm stance! Will Chandrababu dare to voice this in front of Modi? Will he disassociate himself from the NDA? What is the purpose of this alliance, Chandrababu? Why the pretence of affection? Why align with the NDA, which opposes Muslim reservation, while perpetuating such deceit in your gatherings? Jagan Reddy, in a bid to get the support of minorities, further asserted, The 4 per cent reservation given to minority brothers is not given based on religion. These reservations are not applied to upper castes among the Muslims. This 4 per cent reservation is on a backward class basis. Im questioning the BJP and other opposition parties on this. All religions have BCs and OCs, these are reservations given on a backward class basis, subject to the provisions of the Constitution. Is it moral to play politics on such reservations and mess with their lives? He added, We will support minorities on issues like 4 per cent reservation, NRC, CAA, and any such minority-related issue, Minority sentiments will be secured and supported by Jagan and his party. Political analysts say that the bold statement of Jagan Reddy, of the YSRC protecting the minorities, will turn as lethal as the BJPs firmness on the cancellation of Muslim reservations. If the TD supports it, then this would be a big disadvantage to Naidu in the present elections, they aver. They said the YSRC has already started a negative campaign against Naidu and TD, which would be intensified in the next couple of days. This posed a threat to TD and is an advantage to YSRC, as it had allocated 7 assembly seats to minorities out of 175. The Muslim voters are the deciding factor in Kadapa, Kurnool, Rajampeta, Nandyala, Guntur East, Kadiri, Nellore, Srisailam, Hindupur, Proddatur, Pileru, Anantapur, Adoni, Allagadda, Nandikokuru, Madanapalli, Guntakal, Punganur, Vijayawada West, Tadikonda, Chilakaluripet, Panyam, Palamaneru, Banaganapally, Narasaraopeta, Tirupati, Nellore (Rural), Guntur (West), Rajampet, Gurzala, Kodumuru, Ponnur, Sattenapalli, Atmakuru, Emiganuru, Kamalapuram. Giddalur, Penamalur, Pedakurapadu, Pulivendula, Tamballapally, Dhone, Maidukuru, Vijayawada Central, Nandigama, Kovvur, Mangalagiri, Jammalamadugu, Ongole, Machilipatnam, Eluru, Parchur, Visakhapatnam, Penukonda, Rayadurgam, Chandragiri, Dharmavaram, Udayagiri, Rayachoti, Gannavaram and Gudivada assembly segments. The analysts say that the Muslim minorities carry at least 25,000 to one lakh voted in these sixty assembly constituencies. Hence, Jagan Reddy is wooing these minorities to sweep the elections with the help of 4 per cent Muslim reservations in the present elections. Kurnool MLA Hafiz Khan said Jagan Reddy will definitely protect the 4 per cent reservation for Muslims and he will oppose laws like NRC and CAA. Muslims will not allow cancellation of the 4 per cent reservations at any cost and this issue will play an important role in the elections.

Age Old Rivals Gear Up for Do or Die Poll in Sarvepalli

Tirupati: Nellore's Sarvepalli constituency, a bastion that has nurtured eminent political stalwarts, finds itself at the epicenter of an intense electoral battle between the ruling YSR Congress and the opposition Telugu Desam. This constituency, steeped in historical significance, has witnessed a dynamic shift in political allegiances over the decades. Its political landscape has been shaped by the legacies of illustrious leaders like Bezawada Gopala Reddy, a former chief minister of the erstwhile Andhra state who represented the region in the 1950s. Sarvepalli has been a Congress bastion since 1955, with its candidates emerging triumphant in eight elections till now. However, there was a shift in fortunes from 1983 to 1999, when the TD clinched the seat. The Congress regained its foothold by winning the 2004 and 2009 elections, and currently, it is the YSRC that holds the MLA position. At the heart of this electoral clash lies a high-stakes contest between incumbent agriculture minister Kakani Govardhan Reddy, vying for an unprecedented third consecutive term, and TDs politburo member Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy, a former minister who has endured a string of consecutive defeats in the past four elections. Undeterred by his previous setbacks, Somireddy is gearing up for a fifth and potentially defining electoral battle. As the campaign trail intensifies, allegations of corruption and personal animosity have added fuel to the already fiery rivalry between Kakani and Somoireddy. The minister has levelled accusations of amassing wealth, including properties abroad, against his opponent, further escalating the tensions between the two adversaries. He is banking on his political clout and mounted an intense campaign to secure a third consecutive term. On the other hand, Somireddy, bolstered by the support of his son Raja Gopala Reddy and daughter-in-law Sruthi Reddy, has taken the electoral battle to the grassroots, engaging with local residents and championing long-standing issues. His recent agitation against the port authorities over the alleged shutdown of the Krishnapatnam container terminal, which could imperil thousands of jobs and substantial revenue, has garnered him sympathy and positioned him as a formidable contender. Analysts predict a fiercely contested election, with the YSRC touting its development initiatives and the fulfillment of manifesto promises, while the TD capitalizes on anti-incumbency sentiments and the defection of disgruntled YSRCP leaders to its ranks. The migration of influential figures from the ruling party to the opposition, coupled with allegations of neglect and parallel administration, has compounded the challenges faced by the incumbent YSRC. Total votes 2,30,412 Male 1,12,046 Female 1,18,340 Others 26

Pawan Slams Ambati for Ignoring Execution of Polavaram Works

Vijayawada: Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan has slammed water resources minister Ambati Rambabu for dancing around without listing the steps to complete the Polavaram irrigation project. Addressing a public meeting titled Varahi Vijayabheri at Ponnur in Guntur district on Sunday, he alleged that the minister was not taking any responsibility with regard to the project even as 1.60 lakh project affected people were facing hardships. He expressed concern over the digging up of a helipad area meant for the landing of his helicopter at Ponnuru and alleged that the YSR Congress supporters were doing so. Had we failed to notice this, it could have turned into a major disaster and deaths. Those who did will be taken to task once the opposition alliance wins power in the state, he said. Turning down the criticism from chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy that he was a non-local candidate for the Pitapuram assembly segment, PK said, I was born in Bapatla and was brought up in Palnadu, Ongole, Nellore etc as my father used to work in government service and was getting transferred. I carry with me the strong flavour of the red chilli of Guntur. and added that he was man having the strong flavour of the red chili of Guntur. Claiming that he was the first to underscore the need to avoid a split of the anti-YSR Congress vote, he called upon YSRC supporters to instead back the Alliance and ensure a bright future for the five crore people in the state. He said, Our priority is education, employment, health, drinking water and water for irrigation, and maintenance of law and order once we are elected to power. He turned critical of the YSR Congress government for the failure to implement its poll promise of liquor prohibition in a phased manner. Instead, it is supplying sub-standard liquor through state outlets, affecting the health of the consumers. Alleging that the YSRC MLA from Kakinada city, Dwarampudi Chandrasekhar Reddy, was involved in diversion of ration rice and its export to Africa, he warned of action against him once the Alliance wins power in AP. Referring to the clarification being given on the AP Land Titling Act to dispel misconceptions, by chief minister Jagan Reddy, he asked as to why his government issued a GO even as the Centre sent a draft copy to it for feedback. In a public meeting at Tuni later in the day, PK reiterated the assurance to conduct a mega DSC, release of the job calendar and resolving the issue of CPS in a year. He listed out a series of welfare schemes and assured the people to take up a lot of developmental works once we are in power. He alleged that CM Jagan Reddy and minister Dadisetti Raja were involved in a mafia-like loot in relation to extraction of soil, sand etc while other ministers were also earning thousands of crores of rupees. I would work for communal and social harmony and would never encourage caste conflicts. I want people belonging to all castes and communities to enjoy welfare benefits, the JS leader said. Kapu leader Mudragada Padmabhams daughter Kranthi and son-in-law Chandu expressed their intent to join the Jana Sena. Pawan Kalyan welcomed their urge and promised to take them into the party fold after he visited their house to meet Padmanabham and convince him too to join the JS. He said that he would never cause any difference in the family. Whatever be the abuses hurled at him, he would accept these as an exhortation from the elderly person.

Can Naidu dare to exit NDA over Muslim reservation: CM Jagan

Nellore: YSRCP supremo and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy on Saturday dared N Chandrababu Naidu to walk out of the NDA alliance as the BJP allegedly wants to cancel four percent reservation for Muslims in the state. The Chief Minister issued this challenge at Nellore in the eponymous district during a 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 .

Debutants Lock Horns in Gangadhara Nellore Seat

TIRUPATI: The Gangadhara Nellore assembly constituency in Chittoor district, carved out post delimitation in 2008, will witness an electoral tussle between two first-time candidates. Since then, the seat, reserved for people belonging to the scheduled castes community, has transitioned from being a Congress stronghold to a YSRC bastion. While former minister and deputy speaker Gummadi Kuthuhalamma won Gangadhara Nellore on Congress ticket in 2009, Kalathuru Narayana Swamy of YSRC emerged victorious in 2014 and 2019, cementing his party's grip. In a surprise move, the ruling dispensation has given the party ticket to K. Krupa Lakshmi, daughter of Narayana Swamy and a debutant in poll arena. On the other hand, Telugu Desam of the NDA alliance has fielded Dr. V.M. Thomas, chairman of a Chennai fertility centre, who is foraying into politics for the first time. Gangadhara Nellore has total 2,04,669 registered voters, including 1,01,697 males, 1,02,966 females, and six others. The constituency has a diverse demography. The Mala community of SCs is the largest community, followed by numerically significant Reddy, Kamma, Balija and other backward class communities. Local caste dynamics have historically played a pivotal role in shaping the electoral outcomes in the region. Recent reports suggest simmering internal conflicts and infighting within the ranks of both YSRC and TD, which could potentially impact prospects of the respective candidates. Despite enjoying a robust cadre base and historical backing from voters over the past decade, YSRC's clout in the region seems to be on the wane. This is being attributed to the complex interplay of caste undercurrents and internal discord within the ruling party ranks. In particular, Narayana Swamy's conflicts with the Reddy community may impact his daughter's chances. On the other hand, TD nominee Dr. Thomas confronts a daunting challenge for a first timer, as his party's support base has eroded significantly over the past few electoral cycles. Despite his credentials as the chairman of a prestigious fertility centre, lack of familiarity with local political dynamics and peoples waning trust in TD could become formidable obstacles in his quest for victory.

Heat waves forecast for 227 mandals in Andhra Pradesh on Saturday

Motorists cover Scarf their heads due to heat waves on Bandar Road in Vijayawada on Tuesday. Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) managing director R Kurmanadh said 227 mandals in the state are expected to experience heat waves on Saturday. Of the 227 mandals, 58 of them would experience severe heat waves, while 169 are expected to witness heat waves, he said. Severe heat waves have been forecast for 12 mandals in Srikakulam district, Vizianagaram (23 mandals), Parvatipuram Manyam (14), Visakhapatnam (one) and Anakapalli (eight), he said in a press release on Friday. Heat waves are predicted in 13 mandals in Srikakulam district, Vizianagaram (three mandals) and one each in Parvatipuram Manyam, Nellore, Sri Satyasai, West Godavari and Annamayya. Similarly, Alluri Sitaramaraju and Krishna (nine each), Visakhapatnam (two), Anakapalli (10), Konaseema and Tirupati (five each), Kakinada (17), East Godavari (four), Eluru (11), NTR (six), Guntur (14) and Palnadu (22) are to witness heat waves. Heat waves have also been forecast for three mandals in Bapatla district, Prakasam (14), Kadapa (four) and Tirupati (five). On Friday, Gospadu and Bandi Atmakuru in Nandyala district logged a maximum temperature of 47.7 degrees celsius each, followed by Ardhaveedu in Prakasam (47.3 C) and Chinnacheppali in Kadapa (47.2 C). Likewise, Veepinapi Akkamambapuram in Nellore (47.1 C), Peddakannali in Tirupati (46.9 C) and Panchalingala in Kurnool (46.8 C), among others. Kurmanadh advised people to stay indoors as much as possible between 11 am and 4 pm, and take precautions.

Naidu slams AP Land Titling Act, vows to rescind it if voted to power

TIRUPATI : Telugu Desam (TD) chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu has launched a blistering attack on the controversial Andhra Pradesh Land Titling Act, accusing Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy of a sinister plan to usurp lands in the name of digitalising land records. Addressing public meetings in Podili and Nellore during his Prajagalam campaign on Friday, the principal opposition leader vowed to rescind the contentious Act if his party is voted to power. He alleged that the Act will pave way for unscrupulous elements to illegally grab lands by tampering with online records. We have had proper land ownership documents like pattas and passbooks on our names since British rule. But Jagan Mohan Reddy wants to digitise these, which will wreak havoc. Wealthy and powerful people can simply alter names online and grab your hereditary lands, Naidu cautioned. The former chief minister also trained his guns against the YSRC government over the woes of pensioners, many of whom had been subject to immense hardships for getting their meagre doles. Wooing Muslim voters, Chandrababu Naidu promised a bouquet of sops, including preservation of 4 per cent OBC quota, 5,000 per month for mosque maintenance, 1 lakh aid for Haj pilgrimage and interest-free loans up to 5 lakh if the TD-led alliance was voted to power. He exuded confidence that the Super Six promises stitched together by his party, along with the Jana Sena headed by Pawan Kalyan and the Bharatiya Janata Party, will pave the way for installation of a double engine government that would put the state back on the fast track of holistic development. Speaking on the occasion, Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan vowed to complete the Veligonda project if the NDA coalition ascends to power, transforming western Prakasam district into fertile lands.

Sensitize people on ill-effects of heat wave

Women cover themselves with scarves to escape the heat wave during commuting in Nellore district. (Photo: Deccan Chronicle) Hyderabad: The State government asked the district Panchayat officers to sensitize people on ill-effects of heat wave and advise people not to go out unless it is an emergency as heat would be at its peak between 11 am and 4 pm. In view of intense heat wave conditions, the Chief Secretary to Government, Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Department held a teleconference with the District Panchayat officers and asked them to follow the instructions underscoring the need to sensitize people on safety aspects. According to officials, people must consume water frequently when the heat is high. People must carry water while going out. Lemon juice, buttermilk, coconut water should be consumed. They must put an umbrella, scarves, hat or handkerchief on your head to protect from heat while going out. Water camps should be set up at bus stands, busy places and intersections to provide drinking water facilities to passengers in every village. Those affected by sunstroke should be taken to the nearest primary health center after primary treatment. Infants, pregnant women, children, elderly persons and those who fell sick should take special care not to be exposed to heat waves. In consultation with the Medical Health Department, information should be collected from time to time regarding the areas where sun stroke and fever are prevalent and special measures should be taken in such areas and steps should be taken to make ORS packets available. Work site facilities like shade and potable water should be provided for employment guaranteed workers. Adequate quantities of ORS packets should be made available at work sites by Asha workers and in coordination with local primary health centres. Drinking water and ORS packets should be made available in grain purchase centers and agricultural markets by taking appropriate measures to protect people from heat wave exposure. At the same time, water facilities for livestock and animals must also be provided and officers should visit the villages extensively and monitor the implementation of the instructions.

Vote for YSRC to see rapid progress: Vijayasai Reddy

NELLORE: The ruling YSRC Nellore Lok Sabha contender V Vijayasai Reddy reiterated the YSRCs commitment towards Nellores development over the next five years as outlined in their recently released manifesto. Vijayasai Reddy and Nellore Rural YSRC candidate Adala Prabhakar Reddy, along with Mayor Sravanthi and others, conducted a road show across the 24 divisions of the Nellore Rural segment on Wednesday. Appealing for electorate support, Vijayasai urged the electorate to vote for the YSRC to ensure rapid progress of the city. Calling TDP candidates opportunistic, he slammed Nellore Rural MLA Kotamreddy Sridhar Reddy for alleged involvement in rowdyism and land grabbing. Stating that his behaviour is unacceptable, he promised to reclaim the encroached lands and return them to the government as well as initiating legal action against him. He further accused the sitting Rural MLA of betraying the YSRC to join TDP and accumulating significant wealth through questionable means. He highlighted the State governments investment of Rs 69.2 crore in development and welfare programmes for the 24 divisions under Nellore Rural over the past five years and mentioned completed projects like the establishment of four ward secretariats and various road construction works worth Rs 5 crore.

Andhra Pradesh: Novices take on 2-time MLAs in Nellore

NELLORE: The BJP-TDP-Jana Sena alliance is fielding first-time female candidates against seasoned YSRC leaders in a strategic move to end the dominance of two-time MLAs in the undivided Nellore district. TDP has declared Vemireddy Prashanthi Reddy as its candidate against Nallapureddy Prasanna Kumar Reddy in the Kovur segment. Similarly, Nelavala Vijayasree from TDP is contesting against two-time MLA Kiliveti Sanjeevaiah in the Sullurpet constituency. Prashanthi Reddy is the first female contender nominated since the formation of the Kovur constituency. The wife of TDP Nellore Lok Sabha contender Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy, Prashanthi belongs to the Reddy community, which plays a dominant role in the segment. The TDP is confident that the anti-incumbency factor and the support for the party from the people will help Prasanthi. In fact, she launched an extensive door-to-door campaign to seek the mandate of people in the constituency. Despite facing a strong opponent in Prasanna Kumar, Prashanthi remains confident of her victory, banking on the anti-incumbency sentiment. She said: I feel very proud to be the first woman to contest from Kovur segment. To ensure smooth execution of development and welfare projects, it is imperative to elect the NDA both at the State and national level. Presenting the TDPs electoral promises, dubbed as the Super Six, Prasanthi vowed that if elected, the party would introduce an array of welfare initiatives aimed at uplifting the marginalised sections. However, she emphasised that this commitment to social betterment will not compromise the overall progress of the State. Consequently, political parties are making extensive efforts to appeal to this vital voting demographic. With 9.88 lakh women voters in the district, they exceed the number of male voters by 41,335. Similarly, Nelavala Vijayasree, daughter of former MLA Nelavala Subrahmanyam from the Sullurpet constituency is contesting for this time. In fact, Vijayashree is also challenging the two-time MLA Sanjeevaiah in the segment. Vijayasree, thus, became the third female candidate to vie for the Sullurpeta seat since its inception. During the 2009 elections, Vinnamala Saraswathi contested from the Congress and secured 60,722 votes, accounting for 37.98 per cent of the total vote share. Additionally, Garika Eswaramma from the PRP garnered 24,832 votes, constituting 15.53 per cent of the votes. The TDPs strategic decision to field female candidates in Kovur and Sullurpeta constituencies in the undivided Nellore district appears to be well thought out. Both Vemireddy Prashanthi Reddy and N Vijayasree, despite being first-timers, are receiving significant public support in their respective areas. They are actively engaging with various segments of the population, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to secure victory, a political analyst observed.

Heatwave Warning Issued for 265 Mandals in Andhra Pradesh on Thursday

Heatwave Warning Issued for 265 Mandals in Andhra Pradesh on Thursday Heat waves are likely to scorch 265 mandals in Andhra Pradesh on Thursday, a senior official said. According to the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) managing director R Kurmanadh, ''severe'' heat waves are expected in 31 of the 265 mandals. Fifteen mandals in Vizianagaram district, eight in Parvatipuram Manyam, five in Srikakulam, two in Prakasam and one in Alluri Sitaramaraju are likely to experience ''severe'' heat waves, Kurmanadh said on Wednesday. Similarly, heat waves have been predicted for 21 mandals in Palnadu district, 18 in Eluru, 16 each in Guntur and Nellore, and 15 in Srikakulam district among others. On Wednesday, Koppanuru in Palnadu district registered a maximum temperature of 46.2 degrees Celsius, followed by Manganellore in Tirupati (46 degrees), Chilakallu in NTR (45.8 degrees Celsius) and Banaganapalle in Nandyala (45.7 degrees Celsius), among others. Kurmanadh suggested people stay indoors between 11 am and 4 pm and take precautions to protect themselves from the heat waves.

Will implement all promises made in Nellore local manifesto YSRCP Gen Secy Vijayasai Reddy

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AP polls: Commoners working as star campaigners for YSRC

VIJAYAWADA: Amid the popular trend of enlisting film stars and celebrities as star campaigners for elections, the YSR Congress has adopted a reverse model of introducing commoners as the partys main campaigners. Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, as YSRC chief, has taken this decision, a historic first in the country. The commoners will campaign with top guns of the YSRC, including the CM himself, stalwarts like Botsa Satyanarayana, Dharmana Prasada Rao, Ummareddy Venkateswarlu, Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy, YV Subba Reddy, V Vijayasai Reddy, Md Abdul Hafeez Khan and others in the present state-wide election campaign. The YSRC has submitted a list of 12 commoners to the Election Commission, designating them as YSRCs official Star Campaigners' for the polls. The party said these 12 will represent each and every one of the approximate 5 crore people of Andhra Pradesh. At a broader level, the YSRC believes that every person in the state is its star campaigner. These individuals, hailing from humble backgrounds, will campaign for the party on the ground and help propagate Jagan Mohan Reddys messages till the last mile. Notably, even before the Siddham campaign, Jagan Reddy had said, My star campaigners are the ordinary people, and I dont want anyone else to campaign for me or the party. He slammed the Opposition for stitching unholy alliances and trying to get as many film stars, influencers etc on board to campaign for them. Throughout his visits to various constituencies as part of the Siddham and Memantha Siddham campaigns, the CM sought blessings from the beneficiaries, whom he called his Star Campaigners, who he expects would go door-to-door in the coming days and help him have a resounding victory. Out of the twelve YSRC star campaigners, four are homemakers, two are farmers, one is an auto driver, one a tailor and four are former government volunteers. Star campaigner Pandalaneni Sivaprasad, Avanigadda constituency, Krishna district, hails from a simple family of farmers; Katari Jagadish, Anakapalli constituency, Anakapalli district, runs a roadside shop sewing seat covers for two-wheelers; Anantha Lakshmi, Rajahmundry city constituency, East Godavari district campaigns in her village. Through Jagananna Chedodu, a neighbour set up a clothing shop that supports her family. Syed Anwar, Nellore Rural, Nellore district, is another of Jagans star campaigners. Challa Eswari, Mylavaram constituency, NTR District, worked as a government volunteer. They are all eager to campaign for the YSRC and CM Jagan. Eswari was all praises for CM Jagans commitment to uplift every poor person in the state and for his focus on women's empowerment. She highlighted the ease of accessing government services, citing the swift issuance of caste certificates under the Jagananna Suraksha programme. Eswari hails CM Jagan's vision for the state. She has seen families in her cluster starting successful businesses with the financial support they received from state government schemes. She believes he runs a people's government where the downtrodden and the underprivileged were prioritized for governmental support and care.

Vizag Muslims want representation in Assembly

Visakhapatnam: Ruling YSRC leaders are holding meetings with leaders of the Muslim community in Visakhapatnam as the polling date is fast approaching. Those who are organising the meetings include north Andhra regional coordinator and Rajya Sabha member Y.V. Subba Reddy, Visakha Lok Sabha candidate Botsa Jhansi Lakshmi, Vizag North ruling party candidate K.K. Raju. During their meetings, YSRC leaders are stressing on Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy's commitment to development of Muslims. They point out that the party has given tickets to seven Muslim candidates MD. Khaleel Ahmad in Nellore City, Nisar Ahmad in Madanapalle, Amzath Basha Shah Shaik Bepari in Kadapa, A.M. Imtiaz in Kurnool, Kadiris Maqbool Ahmad, Shaik Asif in Vijayawada West, and Shaik Noori Fatima in Guntur East. However, Muslim community leaders in Visakhapatnam have been forthright in pointing out that after Rahman, no other Muslim candidate has been given an MLA ticket from Vizag. They point out that the political contribution of Muslim community in Visakhapatnam-I have been significant. Authorities constituted the assembly constituency in 1967. But it ceased to exist in 2008. The constituency saw two Muslim candidates emerging victorious. In 1972, M. R. Deen won as MLA member in the Indian National Congress ticket. In 1994, TD candidate Abdul Rehman Sheku emerged victorious with 35,344 votes. He defeated INC candidate Gudivada Gurunandha Rao, who received 32,180 votes.

Andhra Assembly polls: TDP's Ponguru Narayana holds door-to-door campaign in Nellore

Andhra Assembly polls: TDP's Ponguru Narayana holds door-to-door campaign in Nellore Ponguru Narayana, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) candidate from Nellore Assembly seat, held a door-to-door campaign in the constituency on Tuesday. During the campaign, the former Andhra Minister exuded confidence in the party winning with a high majority. TDP has done a lot of work for the constituency in the past and people are appreciating this... We are going to win with a high majority, the former legislator told ANI on Tuesday. Ponguru Narayana is contesting the Assembly polls against Mohammed Khaleel Ahmed, a candidate of the ruling YSR Congress party. He lost to YSRCP's Poluboina Anil Kumar Yadav by a margin of 2988 votes in the 2019 elections. The Andhra Pradesh Assembly elections are set to take place on May 13, 2024, simultaneously with the fourth phase of voting for the Lok Sabha polls. In the run-up to the state assembly polls, the TDP has promised, a new vision for Andhra Pradesh with Super Six guarantees. The Super Six guarantees include the creation of 20 lakh jobs for the youth, and a monthly unemployment allowance of Rs 3,000 if TDP comes to power. This time TDP is contesting the polls in alliance with the Jana Sena Party and the BJP against the ruling YSRCP. In the 2019 Assembly elections, the YSRCP won with a thumping majority of 151 seats out of 175, while the TDP was confined to 23 seats. In the Lok Sabha polls, the YSRCP won 22 seats out of 25, while the TDP could only win three seats. (ANI)

Andhra Assembly polls: TDPs Ponguru Narayana holds door-to-door campaign in Nellore

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Travel tips: These popular temples of Andhra Pradesh attract foreigners also, show magnificent architecture

Every part of India has its unique characteristics, some of which are also known for their religious places. One such state is Andhra Pradesh of South India where you will get to see one or the other temple at every nook and corner. Here you will find temples of all the revered gods and goddesses of Hindu religion. Along with religious faith, the temples here are also known for their architecture. These temples built centuries ago are now known for tourism and even foreigners come here to see them. Today in this episode, we are going to tell you about some popular temples of Andhra Pradesh, which are visited by lakhs of devotees from almost every corner of the country and you should also visit once. Let us know about these temples... Kanaka Durga Temple Indrakeeladri is a very beautiful hill in Vijayawada city of Andhra Pradesh. The holy Krishna river flows along this hill and the Kanaka Durga temple of Maa Durga is built on its banks. Special worship is done here during Navratri. People have great faith in this temple of Goddess Durga. There is a large gathering of devotees here. There is a huge celebration here on the day of Dussehra and on this day pilgrims take a holy dip in the Krishna river. Kanak Durga Temple in Andhra Pradesh is one of the many Shaktipeeths located in the country. The goddess is installed here in her Mahishasuramardini form, along with the idol of the slain demon king Mahishasura is also present here. People believe in this temple that the wishes of every devotee who comes here are fulfilled. That's why thousands of devotees come here every year to have darshan. Venkateswara Temple Tirupati Tirupati Balaji Temple, located on the Tirumala hill in Tirupati in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, is one of the major temples and religious places of Andhra Pradesh where lakhs of devotees come every year to have darshan of Venkateshwara and fulfill their wishes. Tirupati Balaji Temple is highly recognized among the people of Hindu religion. The glory of this temple is immense. It is said that by visiting Tirupati once in life, life becomes successful. Built at a height of 853 feet above Sumrdi level, this temple is also called the Temple of Seven Hills because of the seven peaks on the hill. This is the richest temple in the country in terms of charity and religion. Every year crores of rupees are donated to this temple. Every day 50 thousand to 1 lakh devotees reach the temple to have darshan of Venkateswara, while on special occasions the number of pilgrims goes up to 5 lakh. Lepakshi Temple Lepakshi Temple is a major tourist destination in Andhra Pradesh. Lepakshi Temple, located in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh, is also known as Veerabhadra Temple and Hanging Temple. Lepakshi Temple is famous for its mysterious stories as well as the Hanging Pillars. It is said that a glimpse of the history of the Vijayanagara Empire can also be seen in this temple. Here you will also see the footprints of Mother Sita. Apart from architectural importance, the temple is also an important pilgrimage site of Lord Shiva as per Skanda Purana. Lepakshi is a temple which attracts not only pilgrims but also art lovers. Srikalahasti Temple Srikalahasti Temple is located in Chittoor district of Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh. The temple of Srikalahasti is extremely popular among the devotees who visit this temple along with the Tirupati temple. This temple is 36 km from Tirupati. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva which holds immense religious importance for Hindus and was built in the year 1516 by King Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Empire. The entrance to the temple offers stunning views and has intricate carvings of many mythological paintings. This magnificent temple is often referred to as Kailasa and Kashi of the South. The temple represents one of the five elements and that is air. Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is built on the Nallamala hills of Srisailam in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. These huge hills are considered to be the abode of God. It is said that Shiva is everywhere here. This temple is also one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, hence this place has special significance. Lord Rama himself had established the Sahasralinga here, while the Pandavas had established the Panchapandava Linga in the courtyard of the temple. Ranganath Temple Situated on the banks of Pennar River in Nellore, Ranganatha Temple is one of the most revered temples of Andhra Pradesh. Ranganatha Temple, dedicated to Ranganathaswami Swami, is considered to be the oldest temple in the area and attracts a large number of devotees. Let us tell you that along with its religious activities, this temple is also known for its beautiful architecture and exquisite carvings, which make it a very special place for devotees as well as art lovers and tourists. Whenever you come here, you will be able to see the idol of Lord Sri Ranganathaswamy, the presiding deity of the temple, as well as a hall decorated with intricate carvings in which seven gold vessels are kept. Kolanu Bharati Temple Kolanu Bharati Temple in Andhra Pradesh is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati and is a very sacred pilgrimage site. An ancient Shivalinga is also present in this temple complex, for whose darshan thousands of tourists come every day. Apart from this, there is a statue of Kaal Bhairav in this temple complex which is considered a very sacred statue. The age-old tradition of Aksharashim is still followed in this ancient temple. The temple complex also has a Shivalinga, known as Sapta Linga Kshetra, and an idol of Kaal Bhairava that guards the area. (PC: Lifeberrys)

Naidu Refutes Reports of Cutback in Muslim Reservations

Kurnool/Nellore : Telugu Desam chief N. Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday made it a point to address concerns over the potential impact TDPs alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party will have on the Muslim community in Andhra Pradesh, in particular Kurnool and Nellore districts. Speaking to a large gathering of Muslims in Nellore, Naidu maintained that there will be no compromise on providing reservations to Muslims in Andhra Pradesh. Naidu pledged to engage senior advocates to safeguard their rights. The former chief minister accused YSR Congress-led government of spreading misinformation about the repeal of Muslim reservations under an NDA regime in AP. He maintained that NDA has never allowed any injustice towards any community. Chandrababu announced fresh promises to Muslim voters, including financial assistance of 1 lakh for every Haj pilgrim, free bus travel for women, three free cooking gas cylinders annually per family, and completing the remaining work on Gurukula schools for Muslim students within six months of an NDA victory. Addressing another meeting in Kowthalam of Kurnool district, the TDP chief criticised the ruling YSR Congress for favouring members of the Reddy community in selecting candidates. Naidu also promised to address migration issues, construct a 100-bed hospital, and resume construction of irrigation projects in the region. Regarding stalled projects, he said once TDP comes to power, it would complete projects like the Rajoli Banda Diversion Scheme, Vedavati and Gundrevula. In Kodumur constituency, Naidu reiterated his support for the Muslim community. He expressed concerns over potential revisions in the existing salary structure of employees, referring to it as reverse PRC. Partys MP candidate B. Nagaraju, Mantralayam and Kodumur assembly candidates N. Raghavendra Reddy and B Dastagiri and partys parliamentary segment in-charge P. Thikka Reddy were present.

Heat Wave Sweeps Rayalaseema, Rains Lash ASR District

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

N Chandrababu Naidu promises Rs 1 lakh Haj aid if NDA elected to power

N Chandrababu Naidu, leader of the TDP, announced a financial aid promise of Rs 1 lakh for Muslim pilgrims visiting Mecca if the NDA, comprising TDP, BJP, and Janasena, wins the Andhra Pradesh government. He made this pledge during an interaction with the Muslim community in Nellore. Naidu highlighted the TDP's past initiatives for Muslims, including granting state festival status to Rotiayaan ki Eid and establishing Urdu university and Haj Houses. He criticized the current YSRCP government for not supporting the Muslim community and alleged their support for the NRC. Naidu emphasized the Muslim community's values and work ethic.

Septuagenarians ready for ballot battle in Andhra Pradesh

A cohort of septuagenarians are in the poll fray to continue the stranglehold on their respective Lok Sabha and Assembly constituencies in Andhra Pradesh. With their rich political experience, these veterans are expected to be the guiding force for the young brigade in the development of AP on all fronts. A look at the veterans of ballot battles. Nara Chandrababu Naidu, 74 The TDP supremo is contesting for the record 10th time to the Andhra Pradesh State Assembly. The former Chief Minister ventured into politics during his college days and first contested as an MLA from Chandragiri in 1978 on Congress ticket and won. He lost the election in 1983. Later, he joined the TDP and contested the election from Kuppam Assembly constituency in 1989. Since then, he has remained undefeated. He served as Chief Minister of AP thrice. He is contesting from Kuppam constituency for the eighth consecutive time. Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy, 71 The Energy Minister is also contesting for the record 10th time to the State Assembly. He first contested as an MLA from Piler on Janata Party ticket, but lost, In 1985, he contested the same seat on Congress ticket and lost. He entered the Assembly for the first time from Piler in 1989. In 2009, he won from Punganur. In 2014, he won from the same Assembly seat on YSRC ticket. He has remained undefeated since then, and is now contesting for the fourth consecutive time from Punganur. Magunta Srinivasulu Reddy, 70 He entered politics at a very young age and won the elections in 1998, 2004 and 2009 from Ongole Lok Sabha seat on Congress ticket. In 2014, he contested as Ongole MP on TDP ticket and lost. He won the poll on YSRC ticket in 2019. In February, he rejoined the TDP. Now, he is in the poll fray from Ongole Lok Sabha seat. Simhadri Chandrasekhar Rao, 70 The renowned oncologist is making his electoral debut from Machilipatnam Lok Sabha constituency on YSRC ticket. Son of renowned lawyer and former MP Simhadri Satyanarayana, who held portfolios of Endowments and Commercial Taxes in the Cabinets of NT Rama Rao and N Chandrababu Naidu, he was initially made YSRC incharge of Avanigadda Assembly constituency. Later, the YSRC leadership had changed its decision and fielded him from Machilipatnam Lok Sabha seat. Adala Prabhakar Reddy, 75 In his 25 year political career, he won on TDP, Congress and YSRC tickets. After quitting the TDP, he joined Congress and won from Sarvepalle constituency in 2004 and 2009. Later, he joined the YSRC and won from Nellore Lok Sabha constituency. Now, he is contesting from Nellore Rural against K Sridhar Reddy of TDP. Anam Ramanarayana Reddy, 71 He started his political career by contesting from Nellore Assembly seat in 1983 on TDP ticket, and became a minister in NTRs first cabinet. In 1985, he won from Rapur. In 1991, he joined the Congress. He served as a minister for four times. In 2018, he joined the YSRC and won from Venkatagiri. In 2023, he was suspended from the YSRC. The six-time MLA, is contesting for the 10th time on TDP ticket, from Atmakur. Gorantla Butchaiah Chowdary, 78 The veteran Telugu Desam leader won from Rajahmundry Assembly constituency for the first time in 1983. He lost in 1989, but won the subsequent two elections. However, he lost the next two Assembly elections. In 2014, he shifted to Rajahmundry Rural Assembly constituency and won. He has been the general secretary of the TDP. He served as the civil supplies minister in NT Rama Raos cabinet. He retained the Assembly seat in 2019. He is in the election fray for the 10th time, and contesting from Rajahmundry Rural segment. Velagapalli Varaprasad, 71 After taking voluntary retirement as an IAS officer, he joined Praja Rajyam Party and contested from Tirupati Lok Sabha constituency in the 2009 elections and lost. Later, he joined the YSRC and contested from Tirupati Lok Sabha seat and won. In the 2019 elections, he contested from Gudur Assembly constituency and won. He quit the YSRC on March 24, 2024 and joined the BJP. Now, he is in the fray from Tirupati Lok Sabha constituency on BJP ticket

'YSRCs manifesto is Jagans resignation,' quips TDP supremo Naidu

VIJAYAWADA: Ridiculing the YSRCs election manifesto, TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu opined that there was nothing new that the ruling party is offering. Posting a video of YSRC president YS Jagan Mohan Reddys election campaign from 2019 on X, Naidu wrote, Of the 730 promises he (Jagan) made to the people of AP, not a single one of has been fulfilled. In fact, he has failed to deliver on 85% of these promises. Today, he has come forward with another manifesto to deceive the people. Let us all say loudly that we are ready to defeat him. While addressing public meetings at Atmakur and Kovur in Nellore district on Saturday, the former chief minister termed the YSRCs manifesto a resignation letter. He quipped, Usually people resign after elections. Jagan has released his resignation letter and accepted his defeat. Stating that Jagan has miserably failed in fulfilling the promises made during the last election, the TDP chief said the YSRC president could not tell the people what he will do for them. Jagan has expressed his inability to do anything more than the TDPs Super-Six, he remarked. Mocking the Chief Minister for saying that 99.5% of promises made in 2019 were fulfilled, Naidu sought to know why the revenue of people has not gone up, if Jagans claims were true. What happened to the promise of implementing total prohibition? Why are liquor prices shooting up continuously? he asked. Calling on the people to come forward to save the State from thieves who are looting their properties, Naidu said the ensuing elections are very crucial. So far, I have participated in 54 Praja Galam meetings and in every meeting people have expressed that they want to bid goodbye to the stone age and welcome the golden era. If the NDA comes to power, the State will progress well, but if the YSRC is elected again, the State will witness only atrocities, he remarked. Naidu made it clear that a leader should have a vision to create assets and distribute the revenue generated from them to the people. Terming Jagan a traitor, he accused the YSRC chief of deceiving the entire Telugu community. There is no employment for youth, no job calendar was released, DSC was not conducted and no industries were set up in these five years, he said. Citing the incident of a Guntur woman cutting her thumb in New Delhi reportedly in protest against the YSRC government, Naidu remarked that if Jagan becomes CM again, people will have to chop off their own heads.

YSRCP manifesto is a flop while NDAs is super hit: Naidu

Atmakuru: TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday here said that the manifesto of NDA, comprising TDP, BJP and Janasena, is a super hit while that of the YSRCP is a flop. The opposition leader made this assertion at a Prajagalam electioneering public meeting in Atmakuru in Nellore district. Also ReadTDP promises quality liquor at 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 Manifesto Lacks Clear Vision, NDA's Offers Hope: Chandrababu Naidu

YSRCP Manifesto Lacks Clear Vision, NDA's Offers Hope: Chandrababu Naidu TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday here said that the manifesto of NDA, comprising TDP, BJP and Janasena, is a super hit while that of the YSRCP is a flop. The opposition leader made this assertion at a Prajagalam electioneering public meeting in Atmakuru in Nellore district. ''What happened to the promise of implementing total prohibition and why the liquor prices are shooting up continuously,'' said Naidu. According to the TDP supremo, the debt burden on the people of the state touched a whopping Rs 14 lakh crore, adding that prices of all commodities, including diesel, petrol and essentials are skyrocketing. He alleged that ganja (marijuana), sand, red sanders and land mafia are ruling the roost in the southern state. Further, he called on people to come forward to save the state ''from the thieves who are looting the properties of the people''. He also alleged that Reddy could not tell people what he will do for them while releasing the manifesto. Elections for the 175-member Assembly and 25-member Lok Sabha are scheduled on May 13 and the results will be declared on June 4. PTI STH -- SDP

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: YSRCP MP Vijaysai Reddy drives auto while campaigning in Andhra Pradesh's Nellore

Nellores Muslim Vote an X-Factor in a Tight Assembly Contest

Election Commission's Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP). Election Commission's Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP). Tirupati: As the campaigning is intensifying for Nellore City assembly seat, the spotlight has turned to the 53,000-strong Muslim electorate out of a total 2.37 lakh voters. This electorate could be decisive in the triangular fight for the constituency between ruling YSR Congress, opposition Telugu Desam, and the CPM nominee of INDIA alliance. Incumbent city deputy mayor Mohammed Khaleel Ahmed, a prominent Muslim face, is the YSRC candidate. His community's support is crucial for him, so that YSRC could retain the seat. However, the entry of CPM's Mulam Ramesh has threatened to split the Muslim vote bank in areas like Gurralamadugu Sangam, Sundaraiah Nagar, Janda street and Mansur Nagar, where the Left still has ideological support. CPM candidate's presence is an interesting twist in the traditional YSRC-TD battle. Though the two parties are main contenders, the CPM candidate could take votes from both parties, especially in Muslim areas, notes a political observer. For TD, winning the Nellore City seat is crucial. Its candidate, ex-minister Dr. P. Narayana, narrowly lost in 2019 despite polling 46 per cent of votes. This time, certain ruling YSRC leaders have shifted to the Telugu Desam. The opposition party also has the backing of the influential Anam family. The YSRC candidate could also face a challenge from ex-Nellore mayor Sk. Abdul Aziz, who could sway Muslims towards the TD. Another risk factor for the ruling party candidate is Roop Kumar Yadav, who has defected from YSRC and is backing TD's MP nominee Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy.

CGST Officials Destroy Cigarettes Worth Rs 6 Crore

The increase in prices will in turn lead to increasing the government revenue by 7 percent (Photo: DC) The increase in prices will in turn lead to increasing the government revenue by 7 percent (Photo: DC) Vijayawada: Central GST (CGST) officials led by commissioner Sadhu Narasimha Reddy destroyed fake branded cigarettes valued at Rs 6 crore. The CGST had earlier seized these cigarettes while being smuggled or for evasion of taxes. Officials destroyed the cigarettes at the Jindal Waste Energy Plant in Yadlapadu mandal of Palnadu district, after getting all the necessary permits. Narasimha Reddy said they have been continuously organising checks in West Godavari, Krishna, Guntur, Prakasam and Nellore districts, which come under the Guntur CGST Commissionerate, against illegal transportation of various products. The commissioner said they have detected tax evasion worth 403 crore and collected tax of Rs 278 crore during the last financial year.

Vijaya Sai takes missing details in opponent Vemireddys nomination to ROs notice, insists he is ineligible to contest

The TDP candidate from Nellore Lok Sabha constituency did not mention the details of his investments and assets in his affidavit, and had undertaken works in the government sector, alleges the YSRCP contestant; the District Election Officer dismisses his complaint

This candidate in the high-profile Thiruvananthapuram Lok Sabha seat has no house and lives in the party office

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: S Mini, the candidate fielded by the Socialist Unity Centre of India (Communist) in the Thiruvananthapuram Lok Sabha constituency, is a politician from top to toe. In fact, she does not own a home and has been living in the party office for nearly three decades. Like most of her colleagues in the party, Mini, the lone woman in the fray in the high-profile segment, believes that the value of life comes from within and is not determined by material possessions or social status. She lives at the party's state committee office in the Kerala capital, along with her husband and party leader Shajar Khan. The couple's only son Alan M.S. is a degree student at Tirur in Malappuram. Mini joined the party at the age of 22, when she was doing a pharmacy course at the Government Medical College in Thiruvananthapuram. The firebrand leader of SUCI(C) says she joined the party against the wishes of her parents and siblings. There was stiff opposition from them and I was forced to quit home during my college days. Initially, I lived at a hostel and later moved to the party office. It was a wise decision for someone who wanted to become a full-time party worker, she says. Wayanad Election Notes: The solitude of Kerala's most famous tribal activist Vilappilsala protest During her political career spanning three decades, Mini was involved in numerous people's movements, small and big, in different parts of the state. The longest and toughest one perhaps was the people's protest against a polluting waste plant at Vilappilsala in the Kerala capital, says the 49-year-old. The strike which began as a relay satyagraha ended in a full-blown protest two years later. Somehow, we managed to overcome the numerous sabotage attempts by the government, city corporation and the police. I dedicate the victory to the mighty women in Vilappilsala, she says. What began as occasional outbursts took the form of an organised protest with the intervention of the SUCI(C). As the party's designated leader to Vilappilsala, Mini's initial assignment was to organise the local women. We formed committees for every fifty households and important decisions were taken by an apex committee. Party did not impose its decisions but equipped people to claim their rights, she said. The people's protest met with success when the government decided to shut the plant. At the peak of the strike, Mini was detained by the police for one full day. Years later, she was jailed by the police for accompanying Mahija, the mother of engineering student Jishnu Pranoy, to the DGP's office. Jishnu was found dead at the hostel of Nehru Engineering College in Thrissur and Mahija was proceeding to the DGP's office to protest against the delay in arresting those who allegedly pushed Jishnu into suicide. Mini was arrested by the police on conspiracy charges. She was jailed and released after eight days of judicial remand. The police are yet to file a charge-sheet in the court. Lush greenery, stark misery: Election vignettes from Kerala's Achankovil forest Nurses' rights The Indian Nurses Parents Association which works for nurses' rights was established under Mini's leadership. The idea of an organisation of parents was to help nurses who couldn't come out in the open against their employers. Mini travelled extensively in the country to resolve the issues faced by nurses and nursing students. One incident she vividly recalls is the visit to a private medical college at Nellore in Andhra Pradesh. The college had not returned the certificates of about 50 students, mostly Keralites, who refused to execute an illegal bond for a no-pay job after studies. The management did not change their stand in the deliberations with the INPA. Finally, Mini, with the help of a local SUCI leader, approached the district collector. She convinced him about the Supreme Court order banning the bond system at educational institutions. The collector then issued an order asking the management to return the certificates. Though the mission was successful, Mini says the collector was transferred within a few days, allegedly owing to the pressure from the college management which had considerable political clout. The manager later became the education minister in that state, she says. SUCI(C) contesting eight seats The party has fielded candidates in eight seats in the 2024 Lok Sabha election. Mini is the candidate in the Thiruvananthapuram seat. The other constituencies are Kollam, Mavelikkara, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Chalakudy and Kozhikode. Campaigning is in full swing and the party has good visibility in all the places. The party's first unit in Kerala was formed by a group of students of the TKM College of Engineering, Kollam. It stepped into electoral politics by fielding Kochucherukkan in the Eravipuram seat for the 1970 Assembly election. The party's first Lok Sabha candidate James Joseph who contested from the Kollam seat garnered over 8000 votes. Founded in 1948, the SUCI(C) had a presence in the assemblies of West Bengal, Assam, Bihar and Odisha at different times. Its lone MP was in the 15th Lok Sabha -- Tharun Mandal who was elected from West Bengal. Today, the Kerala unit of SUCI(C) has about 1200 full-time cadres and a few thousands of members.The party intervened in numerous public issues and equipped people to fight for their rights. It took the lead to unite people and organisations to fight for people's rights on issues ranging from the mineral sand mining at Thrikkunnapuzha to the anti-K-Rail protest. The party played a significant role in the people's movements at Chengara, Vilappilsala and Moolampilly.

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

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

Two political heavyweights, but both first timers in a direct election, engaged in the toughest ever poll battle at Nellore parliament

Term turncoat' leads to a war of words in Nellore

Tirupati: The electoral battle between ruling YSR Congress and opposition Telugu Desam in Nellore district has turned incendiary after YSRCs Nellore Lok Sabha candidate V. Vijayasai Reddy used the term urncoats to describe former ruling party leaders Anam Ramanarayana Reddy, Kotamreddy Sridhar Reddy, Mekapati Chandrasekhar Reddy and Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy who have now shifted to the TD in Nellore district. The usage of the term has provoked a sharp rebuttal from Ramanarayana Reddy, formerly a minister and now the Telugu Desam candidate from Atmakur assembly constituency.Ramanarayana Reddy charged that Vijayasai Reddy, as the chartered accountant of late chief minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, misled YSR's son Jagan Mohan Reddy into entering illegal business dealings through shell companies, precipitating money laundering probes that have destabilised the YSR family.Politicians can switch parties to serve their constituencies' interests. But as a CA, Vijayasai Reddy cannot justify his professional misconduct, Ramanarayana retorted, while defending his shift to the TDP.Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy, TD's Nellore Lok Sabha candidate, has launched an equally scathing counterattack. He complained that even though he had been loyal to the party, YSRC leaderships oppressive control caused him considerable discomfort.YSRC has become a dictatorial party ruled by one individual. Even long-term loyal members like me had no voice in important decisions. They have killed inner-party democracy, he observed. Vemireddy accused YSRC's government of using force against those who disagreed with it. This has institutionalised insecurity among common citizens. He expressed confidence that the victory of TD-led NDA alliance will bring in development.

Wildfire In Somasila Forest of Andhra's Nellore, Efforts To Douse Blaze Underway

Visuals from the site showed thick, black plumes of smoke in the air as the raging blaze engulfed the forest

Andhra Pradesh: Three killed after a speeding car hits lorry in Nellore district

Andhra Pradesh: Three killed after a speeding car hits lorry in Nellore district Three people have been killed and two were injured critically when their speeding car hit a lorry from behind near the Musunuru toll plaza in Kavali here early morning, police said. Among the deceased, two were women. The victims were returning from Chennai. The accident happened in Kavali Rural Mandal near Musunuru Toll Plaza in Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh, and the injured have been transferred to a hospital, a senior police officer said. Police inspector Srinivasrao from Kavali informed that the accident occurred due to overspeeding of the car which resulted in the loss of three lives, while two others sustained injuries and were promptly admitted to the hospital. Further details are awaited. A few days ago, on April 16, five people lost their lives after a speeding car had hit a parked lorry on the National Highway in Kavali of Nellore district. (ANI)

Wildfire breaks out in forest area in Andhra Pradeshs Nellore

The News Mill

Family First: Women power takes centre stage in Nellore

Rural Assembly constituency of Pollachi has the most number of women voters Rural Assembly constituency of Pollachi has the most number of women voters Tirupati: Women voters are poised to play a pivotal role in the assembly and Lok Sabha elections in Nellore district. Hence, political parties are pulling out all the stops to woo this critical vote bank. A key strategy they employ is the deployment of women from the candidates' families for door-to-door campaign, aimed at striking a personal chord with the female voters. The district boasts over 9.88 lakh female voters, outnumbering their male counterparts by 41,335. This gender skew has spurred parties to actively involve candidates wives, daughters, daughters-in-laws, and other women relatives onto the campaign front. One such example is Somireddy Sruthi Reddy, daughter-in-law of Telugu Desam party's Sarvepalli candidate Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy. Her oratorial skills and campaign videos that went viral on social media have struck a chord with voters, giving Chandramohans campaign a much-needed boost in his battle against arch-rival and incumbent MLA Kakani Govardhan Reddy. Similarly, Neelima Reddy, daughter of Vemireddy Prashanthi Reddy, TD's Kovur candidate, and Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy, the party's Nellore Lok Sabha candidate, is campaigning extensively in various villages, seeking votes for her parents' victory. In Nellore City, Ponguru Sindhoori and Sharani are actively campaigning for their father P Narayana, the TD candidate, through door-to-door visits and interactions with voters. Likewise, Kotamreddy Sridhar Reddy, the rural segment candidate from the same party, is trying to gain the women's vote with the support of his wife Sujitha and daughters Lakshmi Haindhavi and Sai Vaishnavi. The trend, however, is not limited to any single party. The YSRCs Sarvepalli candidate Kakani Govardhan Reddy has his daughter K Pujitha actively canvassing for his re-election. Nellore Lok Sabha YSRC contender V Vijayasai Reddy has also enlisted the support of his wife Sunanda Reddy in his tough battle against TD candidate Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy. Involving family, especially women, isn't new but this has renewed importance in this election. Earlier, it was mostly the Left parties doing this, noted Dr Ramana Murthy, a political analyst, adding, But now, with winning being a litmus test for Telugu Desam and YSRC, candidates have roped in their wives, daughters and even granddaughters from abroad into the campaigning. Except for one or two constituencies in the district, most candidates have roped in women family members for campaigning. These women relatives can be seen making appeals to female voters to vote for their kin in the electoral fray. Despite their lack of familiarity with local issues or the names of villages, they are campaigning door-to-door in sweltering heat, meeting voters, establishing personal connections and seeking support.

YSRC Leader Quits Party in Udayagiri

Tirupati : A key YSRC leader from Udayagiri constituency, Mettukuru Chiranjeevi Reddy, resigned from the party and his post as chairman of the AP State Police Housing Corporation on Tuesday. Citing personal reasons, Chiranjeevi Reddy announced his resignation from the the YSRC primary membership in his letter addressed to party chief and Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy. The resignation comes as a shock for the YSRC in the Udayagiri constituency of Nellore district where Chiranjeevi Reddy wields a significant influence. Sources close to the former APSPHC chairman revealed that his decision to quit the party stemmed from being denied the Udayagiri Assembly ticket for the upcoming elections. In the last elections, Chiranjeevi Reddy had actively sought the Udayagiri seat, but the ticket went to Chandrasekhar Reddy from the influential Mekapati family instead. To pacify Chiranjeevi Reddy at that time, Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy appointed him as the chairman of the AP State Police Housing Corporation, a position he held for a few years. However, Chiranjeevi Reddy reportedly keen on contesting from Udayagiri this time around, but was denied a ticket once again resulting in his exit from the party.

Vijaya Sai Reddy files nomination for Nellore LS seat, thanks Jagan for the opportunity

It is a boon to get an opportunity to be elected from ones home soil, he says, after being labelled an outsider by the Opposition

Crorepati candidates galore in Telugu states

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

YSRC Women Confront Prominent Leaders of NDA Alliance

Visakhapatnam: Several prominent women from the YSRC have stepped forward to challenge top leaders of the NDA alliance in the present elections. From Pithapuram constituency, YSRC stalwart Vanga Geeta has thrown down the gauntlet against her formidable opponent, Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan. She started her political journey with the Telugu Desam in 1993. She was with TD till 2009 and later joined the Praja Rajyam. She won the 2009 Assembly election from Pithapuram. When Praja Rajyam merged with the Congress, she joined the YSRC in 2019 and become MP from Pithapuram. In Mangalagiri constituency, Murugudu Lavanya under the YSRC's banner is taking on TD leader Nara Lokesh. Alla Ramakrishna Reddy won the Mangalagiri seat in 2014 and 2019. Lavanya aims to shift the political dynamics in Mangalgiri, where Nara Lokesh faced defeat in the previous elections. In Hindupur, YSRC leader Deepika is set to contest against Nandamuri Balakrishna, a two- time winner in 2014 and 2019, while in Ichchapuram, Piriya Vijaya braces for a tough fight against TD's Ashok Bendalam. The battleground extends to Pathapatnam, where YSRC's Shaanti Reddy, MLA, faces off against TD leader Mammidi Govinda Rao. In Gopalapuram (SC), Taneti Vanita aims to defend her position against TD leader Maddipati Venkata Raju, showcasing her resilience after defecting from TD to YSRC. In Nagari constituency, R.K. Roja, a two-time winner, confronts Gali Bhanu Prakash. In Polavaram (ST), Tellam Rajyalakshmi takes on Chirri Balaraju. In Guntur East, Shaik Noori Fatima challenges Mohammad Nazeer and in GD Nellore (Sc), Kalathur Krupalakshmi stands against TD's V.M. Thomas. In Pattikonda, Kangati Sreedevi fights against K.E. Shyam Kumar. The elections in AP this time promise a fierce battle between the YSRCs women candidates and the 3-party alliance, with each candidate vying to redefine the state's political landscape.

TDP candidate Vemireddy promises a New Nellore upon coming to power

Listing the issues plaguing the constituency, he says that proper coordination with the Centre would ensure comprehensive development

Vijaya Sais backstabber comment triggers a war of words between YSRCP, TDP in Nellore

The YSRCP candidate flays two party legislators as well as fellow Rajya Sabha MP Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy for jumping ship

Heat Conditions in AP Continue Despite Rains

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

Nellore YSRC Gains Strength With Entry Of Ex-Jana Sena Leader: Vijayasai Reddy

The YSRC in Nellore district has grown stronger with the entry of former Jana Sena district president Manukranth Reddy, said the party's Nellore Lok Sabha candidate V. Vijayasai Reddy on Saturday. Manukranth had joined YSRC in the presence of Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy during his recent 'Memantha Siddham' bus yatra. Addressing the media along with Manukranth in Nellore, Vijayasai Reddy stated that Jana Sena and Telugu Desam (TD) parties had let down their local leaders and workers, resulting in them shifting to YSRC in disappointment. YSRC is the only party that recognises the efforts of its workers and gives them due recognition. We can understand the pathetic situation of flag-bearers in TD and Jana Sena who are leaving as they have no hope of their alliance coming to power, he said. Vijayasai Reddy, who is also a Rajya Sabha member, demanded TD president N. Chandrababu Naidu clarify his party's stand on the Uniform Civil Code issue within 24 hours, given their alliance with the BJP which aims to implement it. BJP cannot unilaterally bring out any new legislation that will harm the interests of any section in this culturally diverse country. Since TD is allying with BJP, it has to spell out its stand, he stated. The YSRC leader pointed out that CM Jagan Mohan Reddy had already said any such law should only come after building consensus among parties. In a diverse country like ours, consensus is needed. If Naidu fails to clarify, it would mean TD is against minority interests, Reddy warned. He also sought TD's Nellore candidates Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy and Ponguru Narayana to reveal their stance on the sensitive UCC issue to the local minorities.