YS Jagan’s Tour to Console Cyclone Montha Victims: Police Block Farmers, Villages Sealed Off

The ruling TDP-led coalition government in Andhra Pradesh seems rattled by YS Jagan Mohan Reddy’s growing public support. As the former Chief Minister and YSRCP chief begins his visit to cyclone-hit areas in Krishna district, the Chandrababu Naidu government is leaving no stone unturned to curb his contact with the people.

From imposing restrictions on farmers to sealing off entire villages, the state machinery appears to be working overtime to block Jagan’s outreach. Hundreds of police personnel have been deployed to prevent people from attending his tour. Villages scheduled for his visit have been cordoned off under tight surveillance.

Jagan is set to inspect damaged crops and interact with affected farmers in the wake of the recent Montha cyclone. However, the police have imposed stringent conditions—allowing him to visit only four villages: Ramarajupalem, Akumarru, Seetharamapuram, and S.N. Gollapalem.

Further, the administration has restricted the gathering to just 500 people and 10 vehicles, completely banning two-wheelers from joining the convoy. In an unprecedented move, police have also issued notices to YSRCP leaders, including former MLAs and local representatives, warning them not to participate in the visit.

These excessive curbs raise a troubling question: Why is the Naidu government so fearful of a leader who merely wants to meet farmers and inspect cyclone damage? At a time when people expect empathy and relief, the state’s priority seems to be political containment — a move that only underscores YS Jagan’s enduring mass appeal and the ruling coalition’s growing insecurity.