Chandragiri, India — A bitter dispute intensifies between Pulivarthi Nani, the current MLA from the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), and his predecessor Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy of the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP). The conflict reached new heights over allegations surrounding an attack on Nani’s vehicle, which Bhaskar Reddy claims was orchestrated to garner sympathy.
The controversy traces back to an incident shortly after the recent elections, when Nani’s car was reportedly attacked as he was on his way to ensure the security of electronic voting machines stored in a strongroom. The attack was described by Nani as an assassination attempt carried out by YSRCP activists. The severity of the incident prompted immediate action, resulting in the suspension of several police officials for failing to prevent the violence.
Bhaskar Reddy, however, disputes the TDP narrative, asserting that the YSRCP had no involvement in the altercation. Adding to the complexity, Bhaskar Reddy publicly shared medical documents from Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences (SVIMS)—where Nani was treated—indicating that Nani’s injuries were minor and his condition was stable, contrary to the claims of a serious assault.
The exchange of accusations culminated in dual press conferences held by the rival parties. Bhaskar Reddy accused Nani of staging the entire episode for political gain. In response, Nani, supported by his wife Pulivarthi Sudha Reddy who also witnessed the attack, condemned Bhaskar Reddy’s statements as an attempt to downplay what they insist was a genuine threat to Nani’s life.
The conflict also roped in family members, with Bhaskar Reddy objecting to the implication of his son, Chevireddy Mohith Reddy—who is also a candidate from Chandragiri for the YSRCP—in the violence. Nani retorted that these allegations were baseless defenses intended to prevent his son’s arrest.
This ongoing feud in Chandragiri underscores deep-seated tensions between the TDP and YSRCP, reflecting broader political rivalries. Such incidents highlight the charged atmosphere in regional politics where accusations and counter-accusations often blur the lines between fact and politically motivated narrative.
As the local community watches closely, the implications of these allegations extend beyond the individuals involved, hinting at potential influences on voter perceptions and the stability of regional political dynamics. As both parties stand firm in their positions, the resolution appears distant, with the potential to influence political alignments and public trust in the lead-up to future elections.