Section 144 imposed in Andhra's Amalapuram after protesters set minister's house on fire

The ongoing protests over the naming of Konaseema as Dr BR Ambedkar-Konaseema district turned violent with protestors setting afire the house of Transport Minister P Viswarup at Amalapuram in Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday.

Prohibitory orders under Section 144 of CrPC have been imposed in the district.

Several vehicles, shops and houses were torched and the police resorted to lathi-charge to quell arson and violence. The house of the ruling YSRCP MLA P Satish had also been torched after protestors went berserk. Over 20 policemen have been injured.

Reports said at least 500 policemen have been called from other districts to prevent worsening of the law and order situation.

What’s the trigger?

A section of people has opposed the district’s new name, saying it has no link to Dr Ambedkar and the name should be retained, while some welcomed the change, leading to unrest and friction across the district.

Condemning the violence, Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy, advisor to the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister, said the decision was taken after various organisations demanded the same. Besides, he said all political parties supported the move when the proposal came up for discussion.

Asserting that no one is above law, Reddy said, “Dr Ambedkar was a great leader and the state government doesn’t have any political interests in naming a district after him. Some vested interests are responsible for the violence and the issue will be settled down soon.”

Reddy blamed Opposition leader Chandrababu Naidu, Nara Lokesh and a section of the media for raking up the issue and stoking fire for political reasons.

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