After post-poll violence, EC orders MHA to keep 25 CAPF companies in Andhra 15 days after counting

The EC “conveyed its displeasure over the post poll violence in Andhra Pradesh”. “Several incidents of violence were reported in Ananthapuramu, Palnadu and Tirupati districts on the poll-day and post poll day. Incidents were also reported before the poll involving assault, setting the property/office of the opposite party on fire, threatening, damaging of the campaign vehicles, stone pelting etc,” the EC said in a statement.

It further directed the CS and DGP to take action against the culprits and to ensure that chargesheets are filed on time. “Without mincing any words, the Commission directed CS and DGP to ensure that such violence is not repeated and all SPs to be tasked to take pre-emptive measures to avoid such a situation in future,” the statement said.

The state had requested that 25 CAPF companies be retained for 15 days post counting of votes in case there is any violence after the results. Accepting the request, the EC ordered the MHA to keep the companies of CAPF in the state for 15 days after counting.

The poll panel also approved several proposals by the state government for action against officials concerned, including transfer and initiation of departmental enquiry against the Palnadu District Collector; suspension and initiation of departmental enquiry against Superintendents of Police of Palnadu and Ananthapuramu districts; transfer and departmental enquiry against Tirupati SP; and suspension of 12 subordinate police officials in the three districts. The EC also approved the setting up of a Special Investigation Team.