The Election Commission’s decision to transfer IPS officer Kolli Raghurami Reddy out of the state has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Andhra Pradesh. Known for his close association with the YSRCP and his extensive powers in targeting the opposition, Reddy’s reassignment to Assam as Election Police Observer marks a significant development.
The timing of Reddy’s transfer, coinciding with the burning of important documents in the SIT office under his jurisdiction, raises questions about whether he had prior knowledge of his impending relocation. Speculation suggests that the documents may have been destroyed as a precautionary measure amidst concerns about potential repercussions in his absence.
Traditionally, the Election Commission deployed general observers and expenditure observers for overseeing elections. However, the appointment of Reddy as a police observer for ten assembly constituencies in Assam signifies a departure from the norm. Based in Guwahati, Reddy will now fulfill his duties in a different state.
Reddy’s close ties to Chief Minister Jaganmohan Reddy have been evident since the latter assumed power, with Reddy heading the SIT tasked with investigating capital land issues and making high-profile arrests, including that of former Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu in the “Skill” case.
Additionally, Reddy’s recent searches at the residence and college of TDP leader P. Narayana have fueled allegations of targeted harassment against the opposition. The Election Commission’s decision to remove Reddy from his influential position in Andhra Pradesh is viewed as a significant setback for Jaganmohan Reddy’s administration, potentially thwarting any plans for further political maneuvering and harassment of opposition figures.
