Polling for the ZPTC by-election in Pulivendula and Ontimitta of YSR district represented by former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy began today. Before voting started, Kadapa MP Avinash Reddy was placed under preventive arrest. Police deployed heavily outside his residence, when he tried to stage a protest at home before YSRCP supporters were dispersed and he was taken into custody.
The by-election has turned into a high-stakes battle for both YSRCP and TDP, Janasena alliance. Voting is being carried out through the ballot system until 5 PM. To prevent disturbances, around 1,500 police personnel have been stationed across both mandals. In Pulivendula, 11 candidates are contesting, with the main fight between TDP’s Mareddy Latha Reddy and YSRCP’s Hemanth Reddy. About 10,600 voters are expected to participate in the bypoll.
Sakshi alleges that Avinash Reddy was taken away without being allowed to wear his footwear. Speaking to the media during his arrest, he questioned the way the election was being conducted. This election is being treated as a prestigious issue by both parties, and high tension is expected throughout the day in the polling areas.
