Amaravati, Oct 24: A video allegedly showing former Andhra Pradesh Health Minister and YSRCP leader Vidadala Rajini being pushed to the ground by a police officer in Chilakaluripet has triggered widespread reactions on social media. The incident has also raised concerns over police conduct and the alleged obstruction of opposition leaders during the local body election process.
Incident at Vidadala Rajini’s Residence
According to reports and YSRCP allegations, Vidadala Rajini had been under house arrest at her residence in Chilakaluripet for three days. Police allegedly restricted the movement of party leaders and supporters who wanted to meet her.
The situation escalated when Pandula Bullabbai, a Dalit leader and YSRCP candidate for the Edlapadu ZPTC seat, arrived at Rajini’s residence to discuss B-Forms required for the local body elections.
Police reportedly stopped Bullabbai at the entrance. When Rajini came outside to question why her visitor was being prevented from meeting her, an argument broke out between her and Chilakaluripet Rural Sub-Inspector Priyanka.
During the confrontation, the officer allegedly pushed Rajini, causing her to fall to the ground. Party representatives and reports also alleged that she was pushed towards a sharp-edged stone.
Rajini reacted angrily to the incident and questioned the officer’s actions, asking whether she was trying to harm her and who had instructed her to behave that way.
Viral Video Triggers Political Controversy
Footage of the confrontation was shared on social media and circulated widely. The YSR Congress Party released the video and criticised the police action, describing it as an example of high-handedness.
The party alleged that restrictions on its leaders and candidates were part of a broader attempt to obstruct opposition participation in the local body elections.
The incident has renewed debate over the freedom of political leaders to meet party workers and the responsibility of the police to maintain law and order without using excessive force.
The allegations have also drawn attention to concerns surrounding the nomination process, with the opposition raising questions about whether candidates are being given a fair opportunity to participate in the elections.
Dhruv Rathee Reacts to the Viral Video
The incident gained further attention after social media commentator Dhruv Rathee reportedly reshared the video on X, formerly Twitter, and asked, “What is happening in Andhra Pradesh?”
His reaction brought the incident to a wider online audience and prompted further discussion about the political situation in the state.
Saurav Das, co-convenor of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), also reacted to the footage, calling for systemic reform and expressing concern about the country’s current situation.
Several social media users and activists also discussed the incident, raising questions about police accountability, the treatment of political leaders and transparency in public administration.
Questions Over Police Conduct and Democratic Rights
The incident involving Vidadala Rajini has become another point of political contention in Andhra Pradesh amid disputes over the local body election process.
YSRCP has accused the ruling coalition of using administrative and police machinery to restrict opposition activities. The incident has intensified the party’s criticism of the government and its handling of the elections.
The episode has brought renewed focus to an important democratic principle: political disagreements should be addressed through lawful procedures, and police action must remain proportionate, professional and accountable.
As the video continues to circulate online, public attention remains focused on the circumstances of the incident and whether the authorities will take steps to address the concerns raised.
