Local body polls: 14 cases booked on the last day of nominations, says Andhra Pradesh DGP

The local body elections in Andhra Pradesh are a key part of the democratic process, allowing citizens to choose representatives for municipal councils and village panchayats. As the nomination period drew to a close, election officials reported that fourteen complaints were registered, ranging from alleged violations of campaign rules to disputes over candidate eligibility. The state director general of police confirmed that these cases were booked on the last day, reflecting heightened scrutiny as the election machinery moves toward the polling phase.

In response to potential unrest, the state government ordered the deployment of 36 platoons of the Andhra Pradesh Special Police, a move described as a comprehensive bandobust to ensure smooth conduct of the polls. These units have been stationed at polling stations, candidate offices and high‑traffic public areas to deter intimidation and to intervene quickly if incidents arise. The decision follows past episodes of violence in local elections, prompting authorities to adopt a proactive stance to protect voters and candidates alike.

The heightened security presence aims to reassure the electorate and to preserve the integrity of the election outcome, which will shape local governance for the next five years. Voters in both urban and rural districts are being urged to exercise their franchise without fear, while political parties are reminded to adhere to the code of conduct. Observers note that the combination of legal action and police readiness may set a precedent for future elections in the state, reinforcing the importance of rule of law and public safety.