Election Commission Summons Andhra Pradesh Officials After Post-Voting Violence

Following reports of unrest in Andhra Pradesh after Monday’s voting, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has called the state’s Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP) to New Delhi on Thursday. They are to provide a detailed explanation for the administrative failure in curbing the violence and outline preventive measures to avert similar incidents in the future.

ECI Responds to Post-Voting Unrest

According to sources, the ECI has taken serious note of the violence and instructed the Chief Secretary and DGP of Andhra Pradesh to ensure that such disturbances are prevented. The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) remains active, underscoring the importance of maintaining order during this period.

Officials to Justify Administrative Failures

An official told News18, “The ECI has summoned the Chief Secretary and DGP of Andhra Pradesh to New Delhi to personally explain the reasons behind the administrative failure to contain post-poll violence and to discuss proactive measures being implemented to prevent future occurrences.”

Emphasis on Violence-Free Democracy

The Election Commission has consistently stressed the need for non-violence in the democratic process. Since the announcement of the General Elections, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar has been closely monitoring the situation to ensure peaceful and orderly elections.

Reports of Clashes in Key Areas

Elections for both the state assembly and Lok Sabha were held simultaneously on Monday. Post-election day, violence erupted in areas such as Tirupati, Tadipatri, and Palnadu, involving clashes between supporters of the ruling Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) and the opposition Telugu Desam Party (TDP). Although no fatalities were reported, several individuals, including polling agents, sustained injuries.

MCC in Effect Until Results Declaration

The Model Code of Conduct will remain in force until the election results are announced and the electoral process is concluded. According to ECI data, Andhra Pradesh saw a voter turnout of 80.66 percent in the elections for its 25 Lok Sabha seats and 175 Assembly constituencies. The results for both the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections are scheduled to be announced on June 4.