Nellore's Mandals Divide: Political Fallout and Public Unrest

Nellore City News

Posted by AI on 2026-01-06 18:47:22 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-04 13:58:04

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In a dramatic turn of events, the bifurcation of three mandals in Nellore district has sparked political tension and public outrage. The decision to merge Rapur, Kaluvayee, and Sydapuram mandals into the Tirupati district could significantly impact the ruling party's stronghold in Nellore, potentially leading to electoral losses in the Atmakur and Venkatagiri constituencies. This move by the coalition government has ignited protests and raised concerns about regional disparities and the welfare of affected communities.

The decision has stirred strong emotions among residents, particularly those in 18 drought-stricken villages in Podalakur, 10 villages in Manubolu, and 3 villages in Venkatachalam, who rely on the Kandaleru reservoir for their agricultural water needs. The reservoir, now in Tirupati district, has been a bone of contention, with the previous YSRCP government's decision to allocate water to Chennai causing political upheaval. The current bifurcation further exacerbates these tensions, as the reservoir and other valuable resources, including the ancient Penchalakona temple, silica mines, and lemon cultivation, are now under Tirupati's jurisdiction.

The public outcry was evident as protesters from the affected mandals, backed by the BJP, demonstrated half-naked in front of the Collectorate. BJP leader Midathala Ramesh demanded that Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu address the perceived injustice. The ruling party MLAs and ministers find themselves in a delicate position, facing public discontent while being unable to challenge the Chief Minister's decision.

With the opposition YSRCP sensing an opportunity, the ruling party must act swiftly to address public concerns and prevent further political fallout. The situation highlights the delicate balance between political decisions and their impact on local communities, leaving the future of Nellore's political landscape and the welfare of its residents hanging in the balance.

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