AMARAVATI – The Andhra Pradesh State Election Commission (SEC) has temporarily suspended the election process for all 100 urban local bodies in the state, citing directions from the Supreme Court. State Election Commissioner Anil Chandra Punetha issued the order on Wednesday, directing that further steps be halted with immediate effect.
The order follows a petition by the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), which alleged that its candidates were prevented from filing nominations and sought an extension of the deadline. The Supreme Court declined to postpone the entire election process but directed the SEC to examine areas where complaints of obstruction had been received and take an appropriate decision, asking for clarity by Thursday.
Punetha has asked district collectors and superintendents of police to submit detailed reports on ground conditions in the affected areas. He said he would review the reports and issue final orders on Thursday, October 22.
The ruling alliance said it would respect and abide by the SEC’s decision. In a joint statement issued on Wednesday in the names of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and BJP state president Madhav, the alliance accused the YSRCP of working to obstruct the elections through conspiracies.
The alliance said it had wanted the polls completed within the deadline so that central funds reach the state on time and development works can continue. It alleged that the YSRCP had filed 59 petitions in various courts to stall the elections and then incited violence once the process began.
The alliance said its aim was to ensure that elections are held transparently, peacefully and fairly, and pledged full support to the process. It said it hoped the polls would bring capable leaders to office and carry the benefits of the alliance government to every household. The YSRCP’s response to the allegations was not available.