Naidu cracks down on political provocations, vows strict law and order

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Monday asserted that maintaining law and order is of paramount importance and made it clear that no violation would be tolerated under any circumstances, irrespective of political affiliation. Stressing that the rule of law must prevail at all times, he warned that strict action would be taken against anyone attempting to disturb public peace.

The Chief Minister’s remarks come amid heightened political tension in the state following a series of incidents over the weekend, including the arrest of senior YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leader Ambati Ramababu in Guntur and an alleged attack on the residence of opposition leader Jogi Ramesh in Vijayawada. The developments triggered sharp reactions from both ruling and opposition parties, escalating political tempers across the state.

Addressing the situation, Naidu said he had observed several highly provocative videos circulating on social media from both sides , and cautioned that such content had the potential to inflame passions and disrupt public order. He appealed to political leaders and party cadres to exercise restraint in their statements and actions, particularly on digital platforms, and urged them to act responsibly in the interest of peace and stability.

The Chief Minister also took note of protests that were held outside Jogi Ramesh’s residence in Vijayawada. Following the incident, the Ibrahimpatnam police registered a case suo motu. Based on a complaint lodged by the sub-inspector of police, an FIR (Crime No. 66/2026) was registered under Sections 189(2), 190, 292 and 324(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) , which deal with unlawful assembly, public nuisance and acts endangering personal safety.

Police said several leaders of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) from the Mylavaram Assembly constituency have been booked in connection with the incident. The Chief Minister emphasised that the law would take its course and that the police must act strictly in accordance with legal provisions, without fear or favour.

Responding to what he described as provocative statements and actions attributed to the YSRCP, Naidu reiterated that political disagreements must be expressed only through democratic and constitutional means. He warned that attempts to incite violence, intimidation or disorder—whether through street protests or online content would not be tolerated by his government.

Reaffirming his government’s commitment to impartial policing, the Chief Minister directed the police administration to act firmly, fairly and without political bias to ensure peace and security for all citizens. He said the responsibility of maintaining public order rested not only with law enforcement agencies but also with political parties and their leadership.

Naidu urged all political parties to act responsibly, uphold democratic values and avoid actions that could further aggravate tensions. He stressed that safeguarding public order and ensuring the safety of citizens would remain the top priority of his leadership, and called upon all stakeholders to cooperate with the administration in maintaining harmony across the state.

The Chief Minister’s statement comes at a time when political exchanges between the ruling and opposition parties have intensified, with both sides accusing each other of provocation. As tensions continue to simmer, the government has signalled zero tolerance towards any form of violence or lawlessness, underlining that maintaining peace and constitutional order remains non-negotiable