Vijayawada, Sep 23: The TDP-led coalition government in Andhra Pradesh is facing criticism over the police action against YSRCP leaders and workers protesting alleged irregularities in the DSC recruitment process.
YSRCP supporters protesting outside the SAAP office were reportedly subjected to a police lathi-charge. Left parties also condemned the action, saying that the right to protest must be protected in a democracy.
The reported opening of rowdy sheets against YSRCP leaders and workers has further intensified the political dispute. Vijayawada Police Commissioner reportedly ordered rowdy sheets against 51 people in connection with the attack on the TDP office five years ago. The YSRCP has also alleged that senior government leaders gave oral instructions to open rowdy sheets against those involved in the DSC protests.
The YSRCP accused the TDP-led coalition government of political vendetta, alleging that cases and rowdy sheets are being used against those questioning the government and the alleged DSC irregularities. The party also claimed that the move is linked to the upcoming local body elections.
The YSRCP said rowdy sheets were opened against people who took part in the DSC protest, including MLC Talasila Raghuram and Devineni Avinash, and strongly objected to the action.
Opposition parties and democratic groups have questioned whether protesters are being denied their right to dissent. They have urged the government to exercise restraint and respect democratic rights.
