BJP Demands Apology From Naidu For Attack On Amit Shah

Strongly condemning the attack on the convoy of Amit Shah at Tirupati, BJP leader in Andhra Pradesh K V Lakshmipathi Raju demanded that Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu tender an apology.

Raju termed the incident as a cheap political stunt, and said that non-bailable cases should be booked against those involved in it.

Former minister Manikyala Rao wondered what the position of an ordinary party worker would be when there was no proper security for the BJP national president. He demanded that the Governor review the law and order situation in the state in view of the incident.

Telangana BJP President K Laxman alleged that the AP Chief Minister was indulging in such provocative acts just to cover up his government's failures. He said that Naidu should own the responsibility for the attack, and that stern action should be taken for the security lapses that led to the incident.

Chandrababu Naidu in Amaravathi however expressed concern on the incident and asked officials to take measures to prevent such incidents.

"Everybody should abide by the party discipline, and action will be taken if discipline is violated," he warned.

AP home minister Chinarajappa said that an enquiry would be ordered into the incident. He said that the agitation for special status should be done peacefully, and assured stern action against those involved in the violence.

Earlier in the day, some TDP workers tried to stop, and pelted stones at, the convoy of BJP President Amit Shah near the Alipiri Garud circle when he was returning after offering prayers to Lord Venkateswara in Tirumala.