Former CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has once again launched a scathing attack on the police system in Andhra Pradesh. Speaking at a recent gathering, Jagan alleged that police officials, from constables to home guards, have turned into “collection agents” under the current government. He even claimed that these collections are being funnelled to a senior political leader and his son.
Jagan further alleged that TDP leaders are running the liquor belt shop auctions and that police stations are being misused to support this illegal activity. He accused high-ranking officers, including DIGs, of being directly involved in distributing these shops. He also claimed that leaders from the ruling coalition are looting resources such as sand, liquor, land, and mines in an organized manner.
Additionally, Jagan said that YSRCP workers are being harassed and arrested for protesting against this corruption. He pointed out the unchecked rise of the ration rice mafia and illegal gambling clubs in TDP-held constituencies, and criticized the police for turning a blind eye out of fear or pressure.
However, political analysts have raised serious concerns over Jagan’s repeated and aggressive public attacks on the police force. They argue that criticizing any public institution, especially one as vital as the police, to such an extent sets a dangerous precedent. They point out that the same police force served under Jagan’s administration and was part of implementing his government’s policies and schemes.
Calling the police corrupt today while praising them just a year ago has raised eyebrows. Analysts believe such statements not only damage the morale of the force but also create an unnecessary rift between political parties and law enforcement. While opposition criticism is common in a democracy, targeting institutions without balance may do more harm than good, they say.
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