The Election Commission has expressed grave concern over the accusations of EVM vandalism against Andhra Pradesh MLA P Ramakrishna Reddy and has initiated an investigation into the matter. A video of the incident involving the YSR Congress Party MLA, which reportedly occurred on May 13, has come to light. The Election Commission has provided the video evidence to the state police for further investigation. Sitting MLA P Ramakrishna Reddy was caught on camera vandalizing EVMs in polling stations in Macharla Assembly Constituency.
The Chief Electoral Officer in Andhra Pradesh has confirmed that the video footage has been handed over to the police for assistance in the investigation. The MLA has been named as an accused in the case. The Election Commission has instructed the CEO to inform the DGP to take strict action against all those involved in the incidents. Opposition leader Nara Lokesh has accused the MLA of destroying the EVMs out of fear of losing in the elections and has shared a video of the incident.
Lokesh stated that YS Jagan Mohan Reddy not only murdered his own uncle, but also the voters who supported him, and ultimately, democracy itself. YCP MLA Pinnelli Ramakrishna Reddy damaged the EVM at the Palwai Gate polling center in the Macharla Constituency. I urge the Election Commission to take severe action against Pinnelli Ramakrishna Reddy, who sabotaged EVMs and assaulted them due to the fear of losing. The public will deliver a true judgment on YCP’s internal politics on June 4.
Andhra Pradesh conducted its parliamentary and legislative elections on May 13 in a single phase. The state witnessed widespread violence post the elections.