Amaravati, Oct 26: YSRCP MP Maddila Gurumoorthy has raised serious allegations of electoral irregularities, violence and corruption in Andhra Pradesh’s local body elections. He has accused the ruling TDP-led coalition of obstructing opposition candidates from filing nominations and alleged that money was collected from TDP candidates to secure uncontested victories.
In a complaint submitted to the President of India and the Governor of Andhra Pradesh, Gurumoorthy sought an independent and impartial investigation into the alleged election irregularities, attacks on opposition candidates and the conduct of police and election officials.
Gurumoorthy Alleges Rs 40–50 Lakh Collection from TDP Candidates
According to Gurumoorthy, an alleged nexus involving TDP leaders, police personnel and election officials is undermining the fairness of the local body elections.
He claimed that Rs. 40 lakh to Rs. 50 lakh was allegedly collected from each TDP candidate in exchange for securing uncontested victories. He further alleged that the money was distributed among individuals who helped facilitate these outcomes.
These claims raise serious questions about electoral transparency and accountability. However, the allegations require an independent investigation and verification by the competent authorities.
YSRCP Candidates Allegedly Prevented from Filing Nominations
Gurumoorthy alleged that YSRCP candidates faced several obstacles while attempting to file nominations for the local body elections.
According to his complaint, the alleged irregularities included:
- Obstructing opposition candidates from filing nominations.
- Threatening and physically attacking candidates.
- Tearing nomination papers, including inside Returning Officers’ chambers.
- Rejecting opposition nominations on minor technical grounds.
- Alleged manipulation during the scrutiny of nomination papers.
- Failure of police personnel to intervene effectively in reported incidents.
He alleged that these actions were intended to eliminate electoral competition and help TDP candidates win without contest.
Gurumoorthy also questioned the conduct of election officials and the role of the police, calling for accountability wherever violations are established.
1,345 MPTC–ZPTC Candidates and 222 Wards Under Scrutiny
Gurumoorthy highlighted figures that, according to his complaint, raise concerns about the conduct of the local body elections.
He cited the reported obstruction of 1,345 MPTC–ZPTC candidates and the absence of nominations across 222 wards in seven municipalities.
He argued that these figures require a detailed examination to determine whether candidates were prevented from contesting and whether election procedures were followed fairly.
The allegations have added to concerns about opposition candidates’ access to the nomination process and the need for transparent election procedures.
Complaint Seeks Independent Investigation into Election Irregularities
In his complaint to the President of India and the Andhra Pradesh Governor, Gurumoorthy sought an independent and impartial inquiry into the reported incidents.
His demands include:
- An investigation into allegations of money collection and the alleged distribution of funds.
- A review of disputed nominations and the rejection of opposition candidates’ papers.
- An examination of the conduct of police personnel and election officials.
- Verification of compliance with Supreme Court directions.
- Preservation of nomination records, CCTV footage and other relevant evidence.
- Adequate security for candidates and the effective implementation of election safeguards.
- Accountability for officials found responsible for established violations.
He also called for scrutiny of the State Election Commission’s handling of complaints and its response to allegations of obstruction and violence.
Gurumoorthy Questions Fairness of AP Local Body Elections
Gurumoorthy said free and fair elections are essential to democracy and that every candidate must receive an equal opportunity to contest.
He argued that allegations of violence, nomination obstruction and possible financial dealings must be investigated impartially to maintain public confidence in the electoral process.
The allegations place the spotlight on the Andhra Pradesh State Election Commission and the authorities responsible for ensuring that local body elections are conducted according to the law.
An independent inquiry, examination of the available evidence and appropriate action against anyone found guilty would help establish the facts and address concerns about electoral fairness.
