A complaint from the TDP over hate speeches by KCR, the Election Commission has directed district officials to present the video footage of his speeches at public meetings in Karimnagar, Nizamabad and Nalgonda during the last few days. In his speeches, KCR had termed both TDP and YSRCP as 'Andhra parties' and urged the people of Telangana to kick them out of the region.
His speech at Mekala Abhinav stadium in Nalgonda was recorded and also published in newspapers. TDP general secretary MA Shareef lodged a complaint with chief electoral officer Bhanwar Lal demanding immediate action against KCR for 'influencing the people of Telangana against the Andhra people'. "We have received complaints against KCR's speech and have asked the district election officials to submit the video footage of his speech. After examining the footage, we will take a decision or refer the issue to the Election Commission of India," deputy chief electoral officer A Sri Devasena.
According to APHERALD sources, the footage was sent to the forensic department to establish whether or not it is genuine. The Election Commission has directed field officials to take immediate action against politicians who disturb the atmosphere during campaigning. "In some cases, lack of prompt intervention and follow-up has been noticed. Since such speeches have the potential to disturb the peaceful, free and fair election process, it is important on the part of the district and state level authorities to initiate prompt legal action without any delay," the Election Commission said.
Meanwhile, responding to KCR's speech, TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu had also made some provocative statements at Malkajgiri and Chevella. The TRS is now preparing to file a complaint before the EC in retaliation.
