Former Andhra Pradesh Minister and YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leader Ambati Rambabu has publicly accused the Guntur district police of political bias and inaction, questioning if permission from Minister Nara Lokesh is now mandatory to meet the Superintendent of Police (SP). Rambabu expressed severe dissatisfaction after being denied an appointment with the SP to file a complaint regarding the recent Undavalli incident, where a police constable sustained serious head injuries requiring 14 stitches. This incident underscores growing political tensions in Andhra Pradesh following the recent change in government.

Rambabu stated that despite having a prior appointment, he was informed upon arrival that the SP was unavailable. He vehemently criticized this denial, suggesting it was a deliberate attempt to obstruct justice for YSRCP cadres. The former minister highlighted that the Undavalli incident involved an alleged attack on YSRCP members by opponents, yet the police have reportedly filed reverse cases against his party.

Allegations of Political Interference in Guntur Police

The core of Rambabu’s grievance revolves around the perceived influence of the new Telugu Desam Party (TDP) led government. He directly questioned, "Do we need to take permission from Minister Nara Lokesh even to submit a petition to the SP?" This statement implies a belief that the police administration in Guntur is operating under political pressure from the ruling alliance, specifically from the Minister for Human Resources Development, Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, and Programme Implementation, Nara Lokesh.

This accusation points to a broader concern within the opposition regarding the impartiality of law enforcement agencies in Andhra Pradesh. Rambabu asserted that the police are "unjustly filing reverse cases" against YSRCP members, despite clear evidence of their cadres being the victims of the attack in Undavalli.

What Happened in Undavalli?

The Undavalli incident, which occurred recently, saw clashes between political factions. According to Rambabu, a police constable on duty suffered severe head trauma, requiring 14 stitches, after being hit by a stone. He claimed that the identity of the person who threw the stone, named ‘Kiran,’ is known to the police. However, Rambabu alleged that the police are "acting as if they haven’t identified the accused" and are deliberately delaying action.

The YSRCP leader emphasized that his party members were the ones subjected to the assault. He expressed outrage that instead of prosecuting the attackers, the police are allegedly violating rules and acting unilaterally by registering cases against the victims themselves.

Police Inaction and YSRCP’s Dissatisfaction

Rambabu recounted that after being denied a meeting with the Guntur SP, police personnel suggested he submit his petition to the Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP). He expressed deep dissatisfaction with this outcome, viewing it as a deliberate snub and an attempt to downplay the seriousness of their complaint.

The YSRCP’s complaint sought immediate and impartial action against those responsible for the violence and the injury to the police constable. The party also demanded the withdrawal of what they term "false cases" filed against their members. The incident highlights the challenges faced by opposition parties in accessing justice and ensuring fair treatment from state authorities, particularly after a significant shift in political power.

Impact on Andhra Pradesh Political Landscape

This public confrontation by Ambati Rambabu is indicative of the heightened political tensions in Andhra Pradesh following the recent assembly elections. The YSRCP, now in opposition, is actively scrutinizing the actions of the new TDP-JSP-BJP coalition government. Allegations of political interference in administrative and law enforcement functions are common during transitions of power, but Rambabu’s direct naming of Nara Lokesh adds a specific dimension to these claims.

Such accusations can erode public trust in state institutions if not addressed transparently. The incident in Undavalli and the subsequent police response will likely remain a point of contention in the ongoing political discourse in the state, with the YSRCP continuing to press for accountability and impartiality from the police force. The party aims to highlight what it perceives as a breakdown of law and order and a politically motivated administration of justice.