Political tensions escalated at a few polling stations in Andhra Pradesh during the ongoing municipal elections, particularly in Kadapa district and Pulivendula, where TDP and YSRCP polling agents reportedly clashed.
YSRCP agents alleged that TDP leaders prevented them from entering polling stations, assaulted them, damaged their mobile phones and tore their shirts. Protesting against the alleged incidents, they staged a demonstration. Heated arguments between the two groups soon escalated into pushing and scuffling, briefly disrupting the polling process and leaving other voters concerned.
Security personnel and local police rushed to the affected polling booths and brought the situation under control. Police warned both groups that strict action would be taken against anyone disturbing public order.
Following the intervention, polling resumed. Voters are now casting their votes in queues under police security. Officials are also allowing voters without voter ID cards to use Aadhaar or any one of 12 other approved identity documents to exercise their franchise.