As of 4 PM, Andhra Pradesh has reported a 55% polling percentage in both the assembly and parliamentary elections. Notably, alongside the traditionally high turnout in rural constituencies, urban areas have also witnessed significant voter participation in this electoral cycle.
However, incidents of disruption have marred the electoral process in certain regions. In Macherla, polling was suspended following alleged vandalism of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) by YCP activists. Similarly, in Narsaraopeta, the convoy of MP Lavu Krishna Devaryulu was reportedly attacked by YCP members.
In Tenali, a controversial incident unfolded when YCP candidate Annabathuni Siva Kumar purportedly slapped a voter who questioned him for attempting to jump the polling queue. The altercation escalated when the voter retaliated. Kumar has since been placed under house arrest by the Election Commission.
In Tadipatri, YCP activists allegedly targeted the vehicle of TDP candidate Asmit Reddy. Condemning the incident, Chandrababu Naidu tweeted, “The assault on TDP candidate Asmit Reddy in Tadipatri epitomizes the YCP’s culture of violence. The unruly mobs cultivated by Jagan over the past five years are resorting to intimidation tactics, seeking to suppress voter turnout through their attacks.”
Despite sporadic incidents, the overall polling process has been relatively peaceful across most constituencies. Voter turnout is reportedly surging as the 6 PM deadline approaches. Earlier projections by the Election Commission had anticipated an 83% polling percentage. It remains to be seen whether this prediction will materialize.
