In a serious political and civil development, Andhra Pradesh Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha has publicly condemned the alleged attack on women protesters by YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) activists during Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy’s visit to Podili, located in Prakasam district. The incident occurred during a scheduled meeting between Jagan and tobacco farmers and has sparked widespread outrage and concern across the state.
Political Visit Turns Controversial
The background of the protest stems from controversial remarks made by two journalists from a TV channel linked to Jagan Mohan Reddy’s family. These comments, seen as derogatory toward Amaravati women, triggered widespread protests across Andhra Pradesh.
As Jagan Mohan Reddy arrived in Podili to address a farmers’ meet, a group of local women gathered peacefully to express their discontent. They carried black balloons and placards, staging a symbolic and non-violent protest along the route of the Chief Minister’s convoy.
However, the protest reportedly turned violent when YSRCP supporters began to pelt stones and slippers at the women, leading to injuries to two women protesters and three police officers deployed for security. The sudden violence disrupted what had been a coordinated and peaceful demonstration.
Minister Anitha’s Strong Words
Addressing the media from Anakapalli district, Home Minister Anitha expressed deep concern over the violence. She emphasized that the police had taken all necessary steps to ensure the protest remained peaceful and that there was no attempt to disrupt Jagan’s convoy.
She reaffirmed that the freedom to protest peacefully is a constitutional right and any act of intimidation or violence—especially against women—would not be tolerated. The minister said that the law will take its course, and those responsible for the assault would be dealt with strictly.
Political Fallout and Party Reactions
The incident has intensified the already high political tensions in Andhra Pradesh. TDP leader Nara Lokesh immediately condemned the attack, calling it an attack on democracy and women’s dignity. He questioned the silence of YSRCP leadership and demanded justice for the victims.
In response, YSRCP leaders, including Ambati Rambabu and Varudu Kalyani, dismissed the accusations, alleging that the protest was orchestrated by the opposition to malign the image of their leader. They insisted that their cadre had not resorted to any violence and accused the TDP of using women for political gain.
The Role of Law Enforcement
According to the Home Minister, the police had deployed adequate forces in advance, anticipating the protest. She praised the security personnel for acting swiftly to prevent further escalation and ensuring that the protest did not interfere with the official programme.
The injured were taken to a local hospital and treated for minor injuries. Investigations are underway to identify the individuals responsible for instigating the attack.
A Larger Concern
This incident is not isolated. It brings attention to a broader pattern of political intolerance, where dissent is increasingly being met with aggression. More troubling is the fact that women protesters, often at the forefront of democratic movements, are becoming targets of violence.
The situation also highlights the critical need for secure protest zones, well-defined police protocols, and political accountability. While Andhra Pradesh is no stranger to political agitation, such attacks on civil society participants—especially women—are alarming.
A Call for Democratic Integrity
As Andhra Pradesh moves forward in its political discourse, protecting the right to peaceful protest must remain non-negotiable. The state government, under scrutiny, must now ensure that this incident is thoroughly investigated and that justice is served without delay.
Home Minister Anitha’s strong condemnation is a first step, but the real test lies in holding the perpetrators accountable and restoring public confidence in the system.
The Podili incident serves as a stark reminder that democracy thrives not only in elections but in how a government responds to its critics—especially when they are women holding placards, not weapons.
