VIJAYAWADA: DGP Gautam Sawang said that Telugu Desam supremo N. Chandrababu Naidu was taken into preventive custody by the police as “his actions are increasing tensions and creating a disturbance to law and order in the Palnadu region of Guntur district”.
He emphasised that the police did not take him into preventive custody for fighting against “the policies of the state government.
R. Jayalakshmi, superintendent of police (SP), Guntur rural, said that the Telugu Desam did not apply for permission for its ‘Chalo Atmakur’ rally. She contended that, in contradiction, the YSR Congress leaders had sought permission for their counter-rally but were denied permission due to the present situation of heightened tension.
Ms Jayalakshmi said that no TD leader had contacted the police for seeking permission for their rally. She said the police department made security arrangements after learning about the programme through the media.
She affirmed that the police would not allow anybody to violate law and order and disturb peace in society, and warned of stern action against violators. She urged all political leaders to cooperate with the police for smooth maintenance of law and order.
Ms Jayalakshmi refuted allegations of the opposition TD about police stopping food and water supply to victims who were forced into a hall in Guntur. She said most protesting TD leaders and cadre had their breakfast at home, and were provided lunch in the camp.
