A curfew-like situation is witnessed in Kirlampudi, the native place of former Minister and Kapu leader Mudragada Padmanabham and also Konaseema, where the presence of the community is strong as the call for “Chalo Amaravati” has gained momentum and the Kapu JAC is firm on the programme.
The police are also taking all measures to prevent recurrence of incidents like burning down of Ratnachal Express in Tuni last year incident. One company each of the Rapid Action Force and the Armed Reserve Police on Tuesday conducted march past in Kirlampudi to send a message that no one should participate in the Padayatra as it did not have permission. “We categorically told the JAC leaders and Kapu youth that there is no permission for it and will not allow anyone to take the law into their hands. We conducted the march past to instil confidence among the villagers, but not to terrorise them,” said Nayeem Asmi, Assistant Superintendent of Police and special officer deputed at Kiralmpudi.
However, Kapu JAC leaders Akula Ramakrishna, Vasireddy Yesudas, Nalla Vishnu and others at a media conference on Tuesday alleged that the police were terrorising villagers in Kirlampudi with the march past and deploying forces heavily. They also alleged that entering the village even with a valid ID card had become tough as the police were not allowing the JAC leaders from other places in the district.
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They categorically said their leader would not indulge in blackmail politics but take up the Padayatra after the withdrawal of the police forces from the village.
SCs face water scarcity
The Scheduled Caste families residing near the residence of Mr. Padmanabham, who draw drinking water from the well in his house, are facing hardship. “For the last four days, we have been denied entry into his house and we are facing acute shortage of drinking water as it is only the nearest well,” said a resident.
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Residents are not able to visit other villages as the police are detaining them or examining thoroughly.