Tension Grips Tadipatri Again as Police Block Former MLA Pedda Reddy Despite Court Nod
Political tensions resurfaced in Tadipatri on Saturday as police once again stopped former YSRCP MLA Kethireddy Pedda Reddy from entering the town, despite a recent High Court order permitting his visit. The development has reignited the long-standing rivalry between the camps of Pedda Reddy and TDP senior leader JC Prabhakar Reddy.
Pedda Reddy, who had been staying away from Tadipatri following post-election clashes between both groups, was reportedly planning a return after securing legal clearance. Anticipating unrest, police had earlier thrice prevented his entry into the town, citing law and order concerns.
As news of his potential visit spread on Friday night, nearly 300 TDP supporters gathered outside JC Prabhakar Reddy’s residence, further escalating tensions. Police responded swiftly by deploying additional security forces and holding dialogue with TDP leaders to de-escalate the situation. Once it became clear that Pedda Reddy would not be arriving that night, the crowd dispersed.
However, on Saturday morning, the situation intensified again when Pedda Reddy actually began his journey toward Tadipatri. He was intercepted by police at Thimmampalli village in Yellanur mandal, under Singanamala constituency. The move sparked immediate controversy. A visibly upset Pedda Reddy condemned the police action, questioning the basis of their intervention despite a favorable High Court ruling. He alleged that authorities were overstepping legal boundaries under pressure, and warned that such actions would only fuel unrest.
Sources say the police acted preemptively, concerned that Pedda Reddy’s entry into the politically volatile town could lead to renewed clashes between rival party factions.
The incident underscores the fragile peace in Tadipatri, a constituency known for high-stakes political rivalries and frequent confrontations. Whether the administration can strike a balance between legal directives and public order remains to be seen.
