YSRCP boycotts MLC elections in citing law and order concerns

YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) has declared a boycott of the upcoming MLC elections in Krishna-Guntur and East and West Godavari districts, citing concerns over law and order. The YSRCP stated that the deteriorating situation across Andhra Pradesh prevents fair and peaceful elections, accusing the ruling TDP government of targeting opposition leaders and stifling dissent.

The party claimed that YSRCP leaders and activists are being treated like “terrorists,” alleging that police have been given free rein to arrest members arbitrarily. Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan expressed frustration with the State’s law enforcement, stating, “The police system has become indifferent, disregarding our concerns, and is focused on harassing opposition leaders.”

According to the YSRCP, social media activists were served notices under Section 41A, but arrests were subsequently made without proper consideration. The party alleged that carrying the YSRCP flag is now grounds for intimidation and legal threats. YSRCP further accused the police of brutal treatment, with party workers allegedly taken from their homes and beaten, while no ministers addressed the law and order crisis.

The party warned of plans to file a habeas corpus petition and reminded police officials that “things will not remain the same forever in Andhra Pradesh.” The YSRCP alleged that governance under the TDP has “collapsed,” with the law enforcement machinery fully controlled by the ruling party.