Jagan’s convoy ‘attacked’, TDP and YSRCP workers clash during ex-CM’s visit to Andhra Pradesh’s Prakasam
Prakasam, Andhra Pradesh – June 11, 2025:
Former Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy faced violent opposition during his visit to Podili, a town in Andhra Pradesh’s Prakasam district. The situation turned chaotic as his convoy came under attack. Clashes soon broke out between supporters of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), drawing heavy police intervention.
Protest Sparks Violence
Jagan visited Podili to meet tobacco farmers who are struggling with low prices and delayed procurement. As he left the meeting, a group of protestors threw stones, slippers, and sticks at his convoy. Eyewitnesses confirmed that the attackers shouted slogans like “Jagan Go Back” during the assault.
Though Jagan remained unharmed, a police constable, a woman bystander, and several security personnel sustained injuries. Officers immediately stepped in to disperse the crowd and escort the former CM to safety.
TDP and YSRCP Workers Clash
Following the attack on the convoy, rival party workers began clashing in the streets. The protest quickly escalated as YSRCP supporters retaliated. Both groups pelted stones, forcing police to charge with batons and break up the mob.
Several people suffered minor injuries during the altercation. Police detained some individuals from both parties and restored calm after several tense hours.
Political War of Words Begins
The YSRCP strongly condemned the attack. Spokesperson S. Rajasekhar accused TDP activists of organizing the protest to disrupt Jagan’s visit. He said, “Our leader came here to support struggling farmers. The TDP cannot handle the truth, so they resorted to violence.”
The TDP, however, denied any wrongdoing. Party MLA P. Ramesh Babu claimed YSRCP supporters started the violence. “Our protest was peaceful. Jagan’s people attacked first. They are playing the victim to gain sympathy,” he said.
Farmers at the Center of the Storm
At the heart of the controversy lies the distress of tobacco farmers in Prakasam. Many are facing losses due to falling prices and slow procurement. Jagan aimed to highlight these issues during his visit.
Speaking to the farmers, he blamed the TDP government for removing key support schemes. He said programs like Rythu Bharosa, crop insurance, and MSP for tobacco have disappeared under the new administration.
“When we governed, tobacco sold at ₹366 per kg. Today, it’s dropped to ₹220. Farmers are angry, and rightly so,” Jagan said. He warned that the government’s neglect could lead to widespread farmer protests.
Serious Questions About Security
The convoy attack raised serious concerns about local security arrangements. Given Jagan’s position as a former Chief Minister, many questioned how protestors could get so close to his vehicle.
Police officials admitted the protest turned violent faster than expected. District Superintendent G. Kiran said, “We had officers deployed, but the situation escalated suddenly. We’re reviewing video footage and will take strong action.”
The state’s Director General of Police has ordered a full investigation. Authorities are now working to identify those who organized and carried out the attack.
National Attention and Political Impact
News of the violence quickly spread across the country. Political leaders from various parties condemned the incident and urged all sides to maintain peace.
Political analysts believe this clash marks a deepening of hostilities between the TDP and YSRCP. With local body elections approaching, both parties are becoming more aggressive in their campaigns.
“This is not just a one-off incident,” said analyst Dr. P. Venkatesh Rao. “It reflects growing frustration in rural areas and an increasingly hostile political climate.”
Farmers Left in the Crossfire
While political parties blame each other, many local farmers feel ignored. “We just want fair prices for our crops. These politicians use our problems for their fights but never solve them,” said Ramesh, a tobacco farmer from Podili.
Another farmer, Lakshmi, added, “We supported Jagan when he gave us MSP. Now everything is gone, and no one listens to us.”
Final Thoughts
Jagan’s convoy attack and the violent clash between TDP and YSRCP workers reveal a dangerous mix of farmer unrest and political rivalry. As the situation in Andhra Pradesh grows tense, leaders on both sides must focus on resolving real issues rather than fueling further division.
The tobacco farmers of Prakasam don’t need more slogans or blame games. They need immediate support, clear policies, and leaders who listen.
