Anantapur: The SIT continued its investigation over the poll-related violence at Tadipatri town, police teams searched the houses of those involved in the incidents and law violations.
Of the 639 persons identified, police arrested 102 from the TD and YSRC parties. More arrests are expected soon. The police would ban the entry of problematic outsiders to Tadipathri on the day of counting.
YSRC candidate Kethireddy Pedda Reddy and TD’s J.C. Asmith Reddy have been directed by the court not to enter Tadipathri till June 6. Sources said leaders from both groups may be screened on the day of counting.
The Pedda Reddy and Asmith Reddy families had been asked by the police to be away from Tadipatri town following the violence. Additional forces have been engaged in flag marches and searches in and around Tadipatri.
Meanwhile, the Tadipatri Assembly segment RO, Rambhupal Reddy, went on a two-day leave citing health reasons. This was reportedly due to pressure from all sides including political parties and senior officials.
Sources said several ROs had appealed to the EC to permit them to go on leave and keep off election-related duties. Many officials applied for leave by citing various reasons in view of the sensitive situation.
The Tadipatri TO got permission for two days’ leave. But doubts persist whether he would rejoin duties after two days in view of tense situations and pressures from all sides.
