Pulivendula Tensions Rise as Vehicles Torched Near YSR Congress Party Candidates' Homes

Tension mounted in Andhra Pradesh's Pulivendula constituency following midnight arson attacks outside the homes of YSR Congress Party candidates ahead of the upcoming municipal elections. Two lorries were torched near candidate Niranjan Reddy's residence, while a two-wheeler was set ablaze outside another candidate's house. The incidents occurred right before the nomination withdrawal deadline. The YSR Congress Party alleged that the violence was an intentional effort by Telugu Desam Party cadre to intimidate and force candidates to withdraw their nominations. The party claimed that nominees are facing constant harassment, noting a previous shop arson incident involving alleged Telugu Desam Party members. Political violence and clashes have been reported across the Rayalaseema belt, including Kadapa, Rayachoti, and Annamayya, during local body poll nominations. Authorities are monitoring the escalating confrontation between the National Democratic Alliance and the opposition party in the region.