Leaders clash over Mayor candidate selection; police intervene to prevent further escalation
A factional dispute within the Jana Sena Party in Machilipatnam escalated on August 23, with two groups of party leaders reportedly clashing over the selection of the party’s Mayor candidate for the upcoming local-body political process. The incident took place during a private function in Vishwabrahmin Colony, 8th Division, Machilipatnam.
What triggered the dispute?
According to reports, differences emerged between two groups within the Machilipatnam Jana Sena unit during discussions regarding the Mayor candidate.
The dispute reportedly involved Machilipatnam Jana Sena town president Gaddam Raju and Jana Sena leader Kotte Venkata Rao. What began as an argument reportedly escalated into a physical confrontation.
Clash during private function
The incident occurred at a function at a Jana Sena leader’s residence in Vishwabrahmin Colony in the 8th Division.
During discussions about the Mayor candidate, an argument reportedly broke out between the leaders. According to Sakshi, Gaddam Raju allegedly attacked Kotte Venkata Rao during the dispute. Supporters of the two sides subsequently became involved, creating tension at the venue.
The incident reportedly caused concern among people attending the function as the disagreement escalated.
Supporters demand apology
Following the alleged attack, supporters of Kotte Venkata Rao reportedly demanded that Gaddam Raju publicly apologise for the incident. The dispute subsequently intensified, with supporters of the two groups reportedly attempting to confront each other.
Police intervene
As the situation became tense, police intervened to prevent the confrontation from escalating further.
According to the report, police took steps to control the situation and moved Gaddam Raju to another location for his safety after supporters of the opposing group reportedly attempted to confront him even in the presence of police.
Political significance
The dispute comes at a time when political parties are preparing for the local-body election process. The selection of candidates for important municipal positions such as Mayor has therefore become a sensitive issue within local party organisations.
The Machilipatnam episode highlights the internal competition surrounding the Mayor position within the local Jana Sena organisation. Another report said that the two groups were involved in a heated argument and physical scuffle over the same issue.
Latest status
As of August 25, 2026, the latest reports indicate that police intervened and brought the immediate situation under control. The reported dispute is primarily an internal Jana Sena factional issue, and the allegations made by either side should not be treated as established facts unless confirmed through an official investigation.