VIJAYAWADA: Excise Minister Kollu Ravindra has asserted that the coalition government stands firmly against the politics of murder and vendetta.
Addressing a press conference at the Telugu Desam Party central office in Mangalagiri on Saturday, he accused the YSR Congress Party of attempting to politicise a recent personal dispute in Palnadu district to create unrest in the State.
The minister said that since its inception, the Telugu Desam Party has prioritised the protection of law and order. “From the days of NTR to Chandrababu Naidu, successive governments have taken strict action against conspirators. But it is unfortunate that personal quarrels are now being given caste and political colour to incite divisions,” he remarked.
He recalled that during the YSRCP’s rule, Palnadu witnessed attacks on villages, atrocities against women, and forced evictions of people—incidents that remain fresh in public memory.
Highlighting past examples of political violence, Ravindra pointed to the driver’s murder case and the Dr. Sudhakar incident, where justice was denied. He alleged that such a culture of lawlessness is being encouraged once again.
He emphasised that under Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu’s leadership, the coalition government will not compromise on peace and security. “No matter who violates the law, strict action will follow. Conspirators will eventually be trapped, as seen recently in the liquor scam,” he said.
On excise policy, Ravindra dismissed misinformation campaigns, noting that the previous government burdened people under the guise of the APT scheme. He explained that the coalition’s new policy ensures quality liquor at prices comparable to neighbouring states, sometimes even lower. Permissions for microbreweries, he added, are being granted transparently, with tourism development in mind.
The minister also condemned attacks on Ambedkar statues, incidents in Tirupati, and the spread of false videos on social media, calling them deliberate conspiracies. He stated that CCTV surveillance has been expanded across the State to monitor anti-social elements.
“Formed with the trust of the people, the coalition government is committed to safeguarding peace and security. No matter how much false propaganda is spread, the public will not believe it. There is no place for violent politics in Andhra Pradesh,” he said.