Security tightened at Mudragada’s residence

The East Godavari district police have tightened the security at the residence of Kapu leader Mudragada Padmanabham here after he and his supporters jumped the security cordon and undertook padayatra for up to 6-km on Sunday in support of his demand for inclusion of Kapus in the list of BCs.

Despite the election to the Kakinada Municipal Corporation on Tuesday, the police were seen in large numbers at the entrance of Rajupalem and Simhadripuram villages, which lead to Kirlampudi.

Barricading

The police started barricading several areas on Monday night itself. They were seen intercepting every vehicle moving on NH-16. About 10 to 15 sub-inspectors were positioned at five check-posts along with a contingent of the Rapid Action Force.

“The police are not allowing people of Kirlampudi too to enter the village without an identity card. This is too much,” said Mr. Padmanabham.

Curbs on vehicles

“A sarpanch from West Godavari who wanted to meet me was sent back by the police on Monday night,” he alleged.

The movement of auto-rickshaws and other vehicles was also restricted, he said.

Earlier, as was the routine, Mr. Padmanabham, along with the JAC leaders, emerged out of his residence in the morning and walked up to the main gate, where they sat in despite downpour.

At noon, they beat plates with spoons as a mark of protest.

Leaders extend support

Meanwhile, former Union Minister M.M. Pallam Raju, former MP G.V. Harsha Kumar, and YSR Congress Party Rajamahendravaram convener and former MLA Rowthu Suryaprakasha Rao met Mr. Padmanabham and extended their support to the movement.

They criticised the police for confining Mr. Padmanabham to his residence.

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