In a dramatic display of dissent, leaders from the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) gathered in front of the Andhra Pradesh DGP’s office to protest against the DGP’s handling of a recent murder case. The protest was triggered by the brutal murder of a Dalit activist, Manda Salman, whose death has raised serious concerns about the safety and security of marginalized communities in the state.
The YSRCP leaders had approached the DGP’s office to file a complaint regarding Salman’s murder, seeking an appointment to discuss the matter. However, DGP Gupta denied their request, prompting the leaders to stage a protest outside the office gates. This act of defiance eventually led to the authorities granting them permission to enter and file their complaint, as the situation escalated.
Speaking to the media after their protest, former minister and YSRCP leader Merugu Nagarjuna expressed outrage over the police’s lack of respect and their alleged bias towards the opposition party, Telugu Desam Party (TDP). He criticized the police for failing to take action against the accused in Salman’s murder case and claimed that the current government’s negligence has led to an increase in attacks on Dalits since the TDP coalition took power.
Nagarjuna stated, “The accused in Salman’s murder have yet to be charged. Under Chandrababu Naidu’s administration, atrocities and violence have surged in the state. The government must provide a compensation of one crore to the victim’s family, as Salman’s murder is a state crime.” His comments reflect the deep frustration felt by many in the YSRCP regarding the perceived deterioration of law and order in the state.
The murder of Manda Salman, a Dalit activist from the Pinnelli village in Gurazala constituency, has sent shockwaves through the community. Reports indicate that Salman was brutally beaten to death with iron rods, a chilling example of the rising violence against Dalit activists. The YSRCP has demanded that the DGP take immediate action to address this alarming trend of violence and ensure the safety of its members.
YSRCP’s state general secretary and MLC Leelappa Appireddy had previously written to the DGP, requesting an appointment to formally submit their petition regarding Salman’s murder. He emphasized that the incident highlights the complete breakdown of law and order in the state, particularly affecting Dalits who now live in fear for their lives.
The protest serves as a stark reminder of the escalating tensions in Andhra Pradesh, where political rivalries are deeply entwined with issues of caste and community safety. As the YSRCP continues to voice its concerns, the state government faces increasing pressure to take decisive action against the rising tide of violence and to protect the rights of its most vulnerable citizens.
