CM Jagan fumes at State Election Commission

Amaravati: The decision of the State Election Commission to postpone the local body elections raised a political stink in Andhra Pradesh.

Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy lodged a complaint with Governor Biswabhushan Harichandan against State Election Commissioner N Ramesh Kumar on Sunday and later at a press conference alleged that he had taken such a decision to help the Opposition, particularly the TDP, since he belongs to the same community as that of former CM Chandrababu Naidu. He also alleged that Ramesh was appointed during the TDP regime and was chosen by Naidu.

The Chief Minister alleged that Naidu was unable to digest the fact that the YSRCP was sweeping the polls hence through "his moles" in the administration he was trying to weaken the institutions. The CM said the SEC has no right to issue orders to stop distribution of house pattas.

Jagan said showing coronavirus as an excuse, the SEC had postponed the elections and had taken unilateral decisions like transferring the District Collectors and Superintendents of Police. "Who is in power? Is it the Chief Minister or the State Election Commissioner?" asked Jagan.

The SEC did not even consult the Health Secretary or Chief Secretary on the situation relating to coronavirus. Coronavirus situation in the state was not so serious to warrant postponement of elections.

He said if the SEC failed to mend his ways, they would take the issue further and will expose him.

This criticism of the Chief Minister invited sharp reaction from SEC Ramesh Kumar and Leader of Opposition Chandrababu Naidu. Refuting the allegation that he had taken unilateral decision, Ramesh said the elections have only been postponed not cancelled. The decision, he said, was as per the rules.

The Centre had declared national health emergency and had issued alert to all states to take preventive measures. Following this, he said, he had consulted the Centre and based on its advice he had taken the decision. Elections will be conducted as soon as the situation improves.

Ramesh said the SEC is a constitutional body and has necessary powers as per the Constitution. "Trying to attribute motives would only weaken the institutions. SEC is equivalent to the state High Court and the government should recognise this," he added.

Naidu at a press conference said that Ramesh Kumar was not his choice as was alleged by the Chief Minister.