Ongole Coalition Rift Widens as Balineni, Damarcharla Trade Charges

Nellore: Political differences within the ruling coalition have intensified in Ongole, with Jana Sena leader and former minister Balineni Srinivasa Reddy and TD MLA Damarcharla Janardhan trading allegations of corruption and political interference.

Balineni alleged that land, sand and ration mafias were operating with the MLA’s backing. He also alleged irregularities in DWCRA loans, collection of lakhs through sand dumps and encroachment of hundreds of acres in Rajupalem for shrimp ponds.

He questioned the purchase of 60 acres near Kothapatnam ahead of a proposed private project and alleged that cases were being foisted on his supporters. Balineni demanded that Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu order an inquiry into the alleged irregularities.

Balineni said he would stay in Ongole for three days shortly to support his followers and continue his fight against corruption.

Countering the allegations, Damarcharla accused Balineni of visiting Ongole only occasionally and making baseless statements. He said he had remained silent so far as Balineni was a coalition partner.

Damarcharla alleged that 79 cases had been registered against him and his supporters during the previous YSR Congress government. He claimed that a police investigation had linked a person close to Balineni to letters containing allegations against him.

The MLA also accused Balineni and his son of running syndicated liquor businesses and collecting crores during the previous government.

Damarcharla alleged that Balineni was using the Jana Sena platform while working in the interests of YSRCP leaders and attempting to create differences within the coalition. He rejected allegations concerning government land near Venugummadlapalem, saying witnesses had publicly denied receiving money.

“People gave me a 34,000-vote majority. Balineni cannot secure such a mandate even after performing penance,” Damarcharla said.

The exchange has intensified political activity in Ongole, with coalition cadres closely watching how the dispute unfolds.