Political Clash – Violence in Alur Constituency Sparks Arrests and Heightened Security
Political Clash – Authorities have intensified security measures in several villages of Kurnool district after a violent confrontation between supporters of the ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the opposition YSR Congress Party (YSRCP). The incident, which unfolded late on Saturday night, resulted in injuries, damage to property, and the arrest of Alur MLA Virupakshi, leading to strong reactions from both political parties.
Dispute Escalated Into Widespread Violence
According to preliminary information, the unrest reportedly began after a heated telephone conversation between individuals linked to the rival political groups. What started as a verbal disagreement soon developed into a larger confrontation in Nemakal, Sangala, Chippagiri, and nearby villages within the Alur Assembly constituency.
During the clashes, activists from both sides allegedly engaged in stone-pelting and used sticks, leaving several people injured. Residential properties and vehicles also sustained damage as tensions spread across the affected areas.
TDP Leaders Accuse Opposition MLA
TDP Alur Assembly in-charge Vaikuntam Jyothi alleged that the violence began when YSRCP workers targeted the residence and vehicle of TDP mandal convener Purushotham. She further claimed that MLA Virupakshi and his brother were involved in leading the attack.
Following complaints submitted by TDP representatives, Alur police registered criminal cases and arrested Virupakshi along with his brother, Sriramulu, during the early hours of Sunday. Police officials have not disclosed additional details regarding the charges while the investigation remains in progress.
Security Tightened Across Sensitive Villages
To prevent further disturbances, police deployed additional personnel across villages considered vulnerable to fresh clashes. Senior officers, including Pathikonda DSP Venkataramaiah and Alur Circle Inspector Ravishankar Reddy, personally monitored patrol operations and law enforcement activities in the region.
Officials stated that the overall situation had been brought under control. They also confirmed that complaints submitted by both political parties were being examined and that the investigation would proceed based on available evidence.
YSRCP Condemns Arrest Procedure
Leaders of the YSR Congress Party criticized the arrest of the MLA, describing it as an unlawful operation conducted during the night. Senior party leaders, including Kurnool district president SV Mohan Reddy, MLC A. Madhusudhan, Kurnool Mayor BY Ramaiah, and Nandyal district president Katasani Ram Bhupal Reddy, alleged that a large police team arrived at Virupakshi’s residence in Chippagiri at approximately 2:45 a.m. on Sunday.
According to the opposition leaders, officers entered the residence after breaking open the doors before taking the legislator into custody, causing distress among his family members. They questioned the manner in which the arrest was carried out and demanded accountability.
Opposition Presents Its Version of Events
YSRCP representatives maintained that Virupakshi had traveled to Sangala village only to meet and console the family of party leader Giri following an alleged attack on their residence by supporters of a local TDP leader. They further alleged that while the MLA was returning, his convoy came under stone-pelting, during which his brother Sriramulu sustained injuries.
The party also raised concerns over the reported seizure of CCTV hard disks from the MLA’s residence. Its leaders questioned the purpose of removing the surveillance equipment and called for the footage to be preserved under judicial supervision to ensure transparency during the investigation.
Political Reactions Continue
Addressing reporters, YSRCP Legal Cell State president Mallasani Manohar Reddy alleged that the handling of the incident reflected political interference in policing. He claimed that law enforcement agencies were acting under pressure and urged authorities to conduct an impartial investigation into the violence and the events surrounding the arrest.
With both parties presenting conflicting accounts, the Alur incident has become a significant political issue in Andhra Pradesh. Police have continued their inquiry while maintaining heightened security across the affected villages to prevent any further escalation.