Allegations of violence during Andhra Pradesh’s municipal nominations have put the election process under scrutiny. YSRCP says its candidates were blocked from filing papers. The ruling TDP-led coalition rejects the claims and accuses YSRCP supporters of violence.
After the Andhra Pradesh High Court refused to extend the nomination deadline, YSRCP appealed to the Supreme Court. On Wednesday, the court directed the State Election Commission (SEC) to examine complaints and decide by Thursday whether candidates with evidence of obstruction should get more time. If it grants an extension, candidates must receive 48 hours from the announcement.
The court postponed publication of the final candidate list until October 25 and directed police to provide protection and CCTV coverage at nomination centres. It will hear the matter again on October 27. The SEC must assess complaints individually; the court has not ruled that the allegations are proven.
AP Local Polls 2026: Key Dates
Polling for 100 urban local bodies is set for October 28. MPTC and ZPTC elections are scheduled for November 3, with nominations from October 21 to 23. Gram panchayat polls will take place on November 26, 29 and December 2.
Allegations Put YSRCP Strategy Under Scrutiny
YSRCP cited incidents in Punganur, Rayachoti, Kadapa and Tirupati, alleging candidates were threatened or blocked from nomination centres and papers were seized or torn. Clashes between TDP and YSRCP supporters were reported in Punganur and Rayachoti; the parties give conflicting accounts.
YSRCP told election authorities its candidates filed nominations in only 321 of 809 wards and divisions across 22 affected urban local bodies. This is the party’s figure. It has sought more time, additional centres and protection for candidates.
Rural Polls Are the Next Test
MPTC and ZPTC nominations are underway, testing YSRCP’s candidate coordination. Election authorities must ensure eligible candidates can file and contest safely. The next rounds will test both parties’ local networks and the SEC’s ability to maintain an orderly process.
