Jagan slams lawlessness in Andhra Pradesh, demands President's Rule

PALANADU: YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has strongly criticised the deteriorating law and order situation in Andhra Pradesh, describing it as a "jungle raj." He accused the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) of fostering a climate of violence and destruction since coming to power, with the police acting as mere spectators.

After consoling the family of Rashid, who was brutally murdered in Vinukonda, Jagan addressed the media, expressing his anguish over the state's condition. He announced plans to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and stage a protest in Delhi on July 24, demanding President's Rule in Andhra Pradesh.

"There is no law and order in the state. Government properties have been destroyed in 490 places, and private properties in 560 locations. Over 1,000 incidents of violence and 36 murders have occurred in just 45 days. TDP's harassment has led to 35 suicides and over 300 murder attempts. The police, who should protect, are filing cases against the victims," Jagan lamented.

He highlighted Rashid's case as an example of the state's lawlessness. "Rashid, an innocent man, was hacked to death in broad daylight for supporting YSRCP. The accused, Jilani, has TDP connections, and despite evidence, the police are not taking action. The yellow media is spreading false narratives, claiming the murder was due to personal enmity," he said.

Jagan also criticised the TDP government for its negligence in his security, citing the allocation of an old, malfunctioning bulletproof vehicle during his Vinukonda visit. He vowed to bring the state's dire situation to national attention, with YSRCP MLAs, MPs, and MLCs participating in the Delhi protest.

"We will demand President's Rule in Andhra Pradesh. The police are failing to maintain law and order, and the TDP is using violence to divert public attention from their unfulfilled promises. We will take this issue to the Prime Minister, Home Minister Amit Shah, and the President," Jagan asserted.

He urged the public to recognise the government's responsibility to protect all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations. He called for an end to the TDP's reign of terror.