Cops detain Naidu, foil protest march

Naveen S Garewal

Tribune News Service

Hyderabad, September 11

Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition N Chandrababu Naidu was taken into preventive custody today amid high drama to prevent him from leading a protest at Atmakur in Guntur district against alleged “states atrocities” on TDP workers and displacement of some farmers from their lands.

Andhra Pradesh DGP Damodar Goutam Sawang said the action was “necessary” as Naidu’s actions were “increasing tensions” and causing “disturbance” to law and order in the Palnadu region of Guntur.

Naidu was put under house arrest at Undavalli and restrained from moving to Atmakur. Many TDP leaders were also detained wherever they were. These include Naidu’s son and TDP general secretary Nara Lokesh. An adamant Naidu, however, said he would march towards Atmakur despite being prevented.

When stopped from leaving the house, Naidu initially announced he would sit on fast till evening, but later decided to march despite being prevented. He was then taken into preventive detention. 

“I have planned to go to Atmakuru to leave villagers back who have been driven out of their land by YSRC men. The TDP is solidly behind all victims of political vendetta,” he said. 

Meanwhile, the ruling YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) has given a call to YSRCP cadres who have alleged victimisation during the precious TDP regime also to reach Atmakur. Reports from across Andhra Pradesh say prominent TDP leaders have been confined to their homes by the police.