Political fervour peaks as filing of nominations start

K Varaprasada Rao

Vijayawada: April 18: With the issue of official notification for the Andhra Pradesh elections, a wave of political activity marked the commencement of the nominations process. Thursday witnessed several aspirants filing their nominations, with some encounters of heated arguments between the TDP leaders and the police at various assembly constituencies across the state.

The first nomination in Andhra Pradesh was filed by TDP candidate Payyavula Kesav for the Uravakonda assembly constituency. In a notable event, Nara Lokesh, contesting from the Mangalagiri TDP constituency, filed his nominations at the Mangalagiri Municipal office amidst a flurry of political engagement. The nomination event for Lokesh drew a large gathering of party cadre and supporters, igniting political fervour in Mangalagiri. At the old Mangalagiri Seetharama Kovela, representatives from the TDP, the Janasena, the BJP, and leaders from SC, ST, BC, and minority communities participated in rituals, symbolising the diverse political landscape. Subsequently, a massive rally commenced from the temple premises, with TDP, Janasena, and BJP activists flocking in large numbers on two-wheeler vehicles, in accordance with guidelines.

However, the day was not without its moments of tension. At Kovvur assembly constituency in Nellore district, heated arguments erupted between TDP leaders and police during the filing of nominations by V Prasanthi Reddy. Similarly, at the Tirupati RDO office, Chandragiri TDP candidate Pulivarthi Nani’s nomination filing witnessed disagreements with the police regarding the entry of Nani’s wife’s vehicle.

The political landscape was further energised with nominations from other key candidates, including Rajamahendravaram city TDP candidate Aadireddy Vasu, Narasaraopet TDP MP candidate Lavu Srikrishna Devarayalu, and Ongole TDP candidate Manguta Srinivasula Reddy. 

Additionally, Vijayawada West BJP candidate Sujana Chowdary filed his nomination with the following of a substantial rally. The nomination process also saw participation from candidates of various assembly constituencies, including Emmiganur TDP candidate BV Jaganageswar Reddy, YSRCP candidates Butta Renuka and Silpa Chakrapani Reddy (Srisailam), and TDP candidate Yarlagadda Venkatrao (Gannavaram).