AndhraPolitics – Violence at Former Minister’s Home Raises Fresh Law and Order Questions
AndhraPolitics – The residence of former Andhra Pradesh minister and senior YSR Congress Party leader Jogi Ramesh was vandalised and partially set on fire on Sunday night in Ibrahimpatnam near Vijayawada, intensifying political tensions across the state. The incident, which unfolded amid rising friction between rival parties, triggered fear among local residents and renewed debate over public safety and political rivalry.
Mob Attack Triggers Panic in Residential Area
According to local sources, a large group stormed Jogi Ramesh’s house, damaging furniture and other household items before setting sections of the property ablaze. The attack created panic in the neighbourhood, with residents describing chaotic scenes and flames visible from a distance. Several eyewitnesses said the group appeared organised and deliberate in its actions, leaving the premises heavily damaged before dispersing.
Police reached the spot after the incident and began an initial assessment of the damage. While no injuries were reported, the extent of destruction has raised concerns about security arrangements in politically sensitive areas.
YSRCP Alleges Political Targeting
Leaders of the YSR Congress Party claimed that Jogi Ramesh, a prominent Backward Classes leader, was intentionally targeted as part of what they described as a broader campaign of political intimidation. Party representatives pointed out that this was the second such incident involving a former minister within a short span, calling it a worrying trend.
Senior YSRCP leaders said repeated attacks on opposition figures reflected a breakdown of law and order. They argued that violence was being used to silence dissenting voices and intimidate political opponents rather than address issues through democratic means.
Incident Follows Attack on Ambati Rambabu Properties
The attack on Jogi Ramesh’s residence came just a day after the house and office of former minister Ambati Rambabu were allegedly vandalised. That incident was reportedly carried out by a group linked to the Telugu Desam Party, further fuelling political tensions.
Ambati Rambabu was later remanded to 14 days of judicial custody in connection with alleged remarks made against Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu. Visuals of his arrest and reports of damage to his property circulated widely, drawing sharp reactions from political leaders and the public alike.
Strong Statements from YSRCP Leadership
Condemning the violence, YSRCP spokesperson Konda Rajeev Gandhi accused the chief minister of being responsible for what he termed growing lawlessness in the state. He alleged that intimidation and violence were being used as tools against those who questioned the government’s actions or raised sensitive issues.
Another senior party figure, national spokesperson Karthik Yellapragada, described the incident involving Ambati Rambabu as a serious attempt on his life. He claimed the violence occurred openly and suggested it was not a spontaneous act but one carried out with political backing. According to him, such incidents sent a troubling message about the safety of opposition leaders.
Chief Minister Rejects Allegations
Responding to the accusations, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu dismissed the claims made by the YSRCP and accused the party of attempting to deflect attention from its own past record. He said criminalisation and disorder had been central to the opposition’s political culture during its time in power.
The chief minister maintained that his government had restored the rule of law since taking office in 2024 and would not tolerate any attempts to disrupt public order. He emphasised that the law remained supreme and warned that any individual or group found violating it would face strict action, regardless of political affiliation.
Calls for Calm and Accountability
The twin incidents have intensified calls for restraint and accountability from all sides. Political observers note that continued violence could further polarise the state and undermine public confidence in democratic processes. As investigations continue, attention remains focused on whether authorities can ensure impartial action and prevent further escalation.