Section 144 Imposed After Violence Over Almaspet Junction Naming Dispute

Tension prevailed in Kadapa city after clashes broke out on Saturday night at Almaspet Junction over a dispute regarding the naming of the junction. The disagreement between two groups escalated rapidly, leading to stone-pelting incidents from both sides. Police intervened and brought the situation under control. As a precautionary measure, authorities imposed Section 144 in the area from Sunday morning onwards.

According to local sources, one group has been demanding that the Almaspet Junction be named after Tipu Sultan , the former ruler of Mysore, while another group has sought to name it after Lord Hanuman . Heated arguments broke out between the two groups on Saturday evening, eventually leading to protests and dharnas.

The situation turned violent when protesters allegedly hurled stones at each other, creating panic in the area. Police personnel rushed to the spot and carried out a mild lathi-charge to disperse the crowd and restore order.

Following the incident, District Collector Sridhar Cherukuri and Superintendent of Police Nachet Vishwanath Shelke held a review meeting to assess the situation.

Addressing the media, the officials described the clashes as “highly unfortunate” and alleged that certain anti-social elements had deliberately instigated the violence to disturb peace in the city. They stated that the dispute has surfaced intermittently over the past 12 years and that efforts are being made to find a permanent solution.

Heavy police deployment has been made across the Almaspet area to maintain law and order. Police warned that strict action would be taken against anyone violating the restrictions or taking to the streets unlawfully.

Authorities also urged people not to believe rumours circulating on social media and appealed to the public to cooperate with the police in maintaining peace. The district administration stated that those responsible for the violence had already been identified and would be arrested soon.