KadapaClashes – Security Tightened After Violence Over Circle Naming Dispute
KadapaClashes – Normalcy gradually returned to the Almaspet locality in Kadapa on Sunday after tensions flared a day earlier during a dispute linked to the naming of a traffic circle. The disagreement between two groups escalated into violent clashes, including incidents of stone-pelting that left several police personnel and local residents injured.
Heavy Security Presence Continues
Police maintained a strong presence across the sensitive area to prevent any further unrest. Authorities deployed advanced surveillance units, including Netra monitoring vehicles and Vajra anti-riot units, to keep the situation under control. Senior district officials closely monitored developments and reviewed security arrangements late Saturday night.
District Collector Dr. Sridhar Cherukuri, Superintendent of Police Shelkhe Nachiket Vishwanath, and Joint Collector Dr. Nidhi Meena visited the affected locality and held discussions with officials on measures required to maintain law and order. Officials said continuous monitoring would remain in place until the atmosphere fully stabilises.
Peace Committee Appeals for Harmony
In an effort to ease tensions, the district administration organised a peace committee meeting at the Collectorate. Representatives from various communities, social organisations, and political parties were urged to cooperate with authorities and help preserve communal harmony in the city.
Officials stressed the importance of restraint and appealed to residents not to spread rumours or engage in activities that could disturb public peace. The administration also requested citizens to rely only on verified information issued through official channels.
Transport Services Diverted
As a precautionary step, APSRTC buses avoided the Almaspet route throughout Sunday. Public transport vehicles were diverted from the Second Gandhi Bomma junction through alternative built-up roads to ensure passenger safety and prevent crowding near the affected area.
Private vehicles, however, were allowed to move through the locality under strict police supervision. Traffic personnel and law enforcement teams remained stationed at major junctions to regulate vehicle movement and prevent gatherings.
Hanuman Rally Postponed
Organisers of the Hanuman bike rally, which was planned as part of Hanuman Jayanti celebrations under the banner of Hindu Chaitanya Vedika, announced the postponement of the event. The rally has now been rescheduled for May 12.
Event organisers cited unavoidable circumstances behind the decision. Authorities welcomed the postponement, stating that avoiding large gatherings at this stage would help maintain calm in the locality.
Police Continue Investigation
Kurnool Range Deputy Inspector General of Police Dr. Koya Praveen visited Almaspet Circle along with Kadapa SP Shelkhe Nachiket Vishwanath to inspect the site where the clashes occurred. Speaking to reporters, the DIG explained that the confrontation initially began as a minor disagreement before unexpectedly turning violent.
He confirmed that several individuals suspected of participating in the stone-pelting incidents had been detained, while efforts were ongoing to trace others allegedly involved in the attacks. Search operations were being conducted at multiple locations as part of the investigation.
Police also conducted a flag march in the area to reassure residents and demonstrate the administration’s commitment to maintaining public safety.
Restrictions Remain in Force
Authorities confirmed that Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code continues to remain active in the locality. Under these restrictions, gatherings of more than four individuals and public rallies are prohibited until further notice.
Officials warned that strict action would be taken against anyone attempting to violate prohibitory orders or disturb communal peace. Police teams have been instructed to remain alert and respond immediately to any signs of unrest.
Political Reactions Surface
Former Deputy Chief Minister Basha visited police stations where several detained youths and their family members were present. He alleged that some individuals taken into custody were not connected to the violence and called for a fair review of the detentions.
Meanwhile, BJP district president J. Venkata Subba Reddy claimed that he and senior BJP leader BV Chalapathi were detained by police on Saturday night in relation to the incident. Speaking after his release, he alleged that their mobile phones had been seized during questioning.
The BJP leaders also expressed objections regarding approval for names or statues of personalities they believe do not represent Indian cultural traditions.