YSRCP Flags Certificate Delays Ahead of Andhra Local Body Polls, Seeks EC Intervention

YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) State General Secretary and MLC Lella Appireddy has written to the Andhra Pradesh State Election Commissioner, complaining about delays in issuing caste/community and No-Dues/NOC certificates required by candidates contesting the upcoming local body elections.

Appireddy alleged that candidates across the State were facing difficulties in obtaining the certificates due to claims that the relevant online server was not functioning. He said the delays were causing considerable inconvenience to aspirants preparing to contest the elections and sought an impartial inquiry into the functioning of officials at village and ward secretariats.

He urged the State Election Commission to instruct district authorities to ensure that all eligible candidates receive the certificates they require within the prescribed time. According to Appireddy, candidates have been compelled to make repeated visits to village and ward secretariats, with some reportedly facing delays in obtaining documents essential for the election process.

The YSRCP leader alleged that the certificate delays were being used to create obstacles for party candidates seeking to contest the local body polls. He argued that administrative mechanisms should not be used in a manner that affects an individual's right to contest elections and stressed the need for a free and fair electoral process.

Appireddy also demanded action against officials if an inquiry establishes that they had misused their authority. He asked the Election Commission to ensure that all pending certificates were issued immediately. If technical problems with the online system continued, he suggested that authorities should provide the documents through a manual process to prevent candidates from losing their opportunity to participate in the elections.

The MLC further alleged that a “Red Book governance” system had been continuing since the coalition government assumed office. He claimed that sections perceived to be supportive of the YSRCP were being targeted and alleged that the police machinery was being used to secure political interests during the election process.

Appireddy said the YSRCP was prepared to contest the forthcoming local body elections and would continue raising the certificate-related issue before the State Election Commission. He called for timely administrative intervention to ensure that procedural delays did not affect eligible candidates or the fairness of the electoral process.