This Article is From May 24, 2022

Arson, Clashes In Andhra Town: Explained In 5 Points

A face-off between the police and protesters opposing the renaming of the newly-created Konaseema district spiralled into violence.

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Andhra Pradesh News
Arson and clashes erupted in the Amalapuram town in Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday when the police cracked down on people protesting the proposed renaming of the newly-created Konaseema district as BR Ambedkar Konaseema district.

Here is your 5-point guide to this big story:

  1. The new Konaseema district was carved out of the erstwhile East Godavari district on April 4 as part of the creation of 13 new districts to improve governance and delivery of services.

  2. Last week, after the state government moved to rename it to BR Ambedkar Konaseema district, local groups objected and called a protest near the district Collector's office on Tuesday.

  3. They wanted to submit a memorandum to Collector Himanshu Shukla against the step, but a face-off between the police and protesters quickly spiralled into violence in the otherwise quiet town.

  4. Several policemen were left injured and the Transport Minister Pinipe Viswarupu's home was torched by irate protesters who also threw stones following the lathi-charge.

  5. Home Minister Taneti Vanitha alleged some political parties and "anti-social elements" instigated the arson. "It is unfortunate that over 20 police personnel sustained injuries in the incident. We will conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and bring the culprits to book," the Home Minister said.

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