The Nandyal constituency recorded a polling percentage of around 85% on Wednesday surpassing the previous highest percentage of 73.84% in the 1983 elections.
The officials and the police heaved a sigh of relief as the polling was by and large peaceful. Voters turned up in large number to exercise their franchise from 7 a.m. The turnout was more in the rural areas compared to the urban areas, according to Returning Officer Prasanna Venkatesh. More men voted than women until noon, and it was the other way round subsequently. Women from the minority community turned out in good number and some persons physically carried their elderly family members to polling stations.
The polling percentage recorded 17% at 9 a.m. almost doubled to 32.4% at 11 a.m., 52.1% at 1 p.m., 71.91% at 3 p.m. and 77.66% by 5 p.m. The final polling percentage was not declared even around 8.30 p.m. as all the voters who joined the queues by the scheduled closing time of 6 p.m. were permitted to cast their votes.
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Of the 255 polling stations in the Nandyal and Gospadu mandals, 23 EVMs and 14 VVPAT units developed snags and were replaced. The Election Commission officials kept track of the polling through live webcasting from the polling stations. Polling officer of the Pullur polling station Srinivasa Reddy was rushed to hospital when he complained of chest pain and was replaced by another officer. He is said to be out of danger.
A minor altercation ensued between the Silpa and Bhuma family members near the Atmakur bus stand. Former MLC Silpa Chakrapani Reddy and his son Ravi had a wordy duel with late MLA Bhuma Nagi Reddy’s son Bhuma Vikhyat Reddy and daughter Naga Mounika Reddy. Rambabu, brother of former TDP MLA of Ongole and his followers allegedly tried to attack YSRC leader Rajagopala Reddy near a polling station at Gandhinagar in Nandyal.