NANDYAL: A day after by-election to Nandyal Assembly segment, the gunman of a Telugu Desam leader opened fire at YSRC workers here on Thursday, setting off a wave a panic in the traders' town. Fortunately, no one was injured in the firing.
According to sources, the gunman of TDP leader Abhiruchi Madhu opened fire after an argument between Madhu and his workers with those of YSRC leader Silpa Chakrapani Reddy, who is the brother of YSRC candidate for the by election Silpa Mohan Reddy. YSRC leaders say it was an attempt on Chakrapani Reddy's life while the TDP leaders say it was an act of defence.
The argument ensued when Chakrapani Reddy asked Madhu's supporters to remove car as it was blocking their way. They were on their way to the funeral ceremony of a minority leader Basha. Madhu reportedly belongs to Bhuma faction in the town.
As already tensions are peaking in the town after the fierce electoral battle by both the sides, the argument soon deteriorated into a brawl resulting in the opening of fire. Immediately Silpa Chakrapani Reddy's supporters damaged Madhu's car and clashed with those of Madhu and for some time both the groups pushed each other around.
Meanwhile, the police arrived on the scene and brought the situation under control. They took the two quarrelling mobs to the police station and are inquiring into why the clash took place after registering a case.