Rahul Gandhi's detention sparks Congress, BJP clash

Metro India News | vijayawada

Congress and BJP workers clashed in Vijayawada on Wednesday during rival protests over the detention of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, triggering tension and prompting police deployment. Both parties accused each other of violence and provocation.

The Congress staged protests condemning Gandhi's detention during his dharna near the Prime Minister's residence in New Delhi over the alleged NEET paper leak and the police action against demonstrators demanding Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. The Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) also announced a march from Andhra Ratna Bhavan to Lok Bhavan to submit a memorandum to Governor S. Abdul Nazeer.

The BJP organised a counter-protest defending the Centre's handling of the issue and criticising the Congress demonstration.

Across Andhra Pradesh, Congress workers held protests under APCC president Y.S. Sharmila Reddy's directions. At Kadiri in Sri Sathya Sai district, Congress workers staged a road blockade. District president K.S. Shanawaz alleged repeated examination paper leaks, police excesses against protesting youth and demanded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's resignation.

APCC vice-president Kolanukonda Shivaji alleged that police lathi-charged Congress workers instead of restraining BJP activists. He claimed Youth Congress president Pawan Teja suffered a leg fracture, while Youth Congress leader Racharla Suryaprakash and NSUI leader Gopi were injured. Shivaji also condemned the alleged attack on the Congress office and said the party would lodge a complaint seeking impartial police action.

Addressing BJP workers, state president P.V.N. Madhav alleged that the Delhi protests had turned into an attack on the nation's sovereignty and accused the Congress of backing anti-national forces. He defended the Centre's handling of the NEET issue, stating those responsible for the paper leak had been arrested and that counselling was already under way.

Madhav also alleged BJP workers in Vijayawada were attacked with eggs and sticks by Congress activists. Police remained on alert throughout the demonstrations to prevent further clashes.