A major law-and-order case has been registered in Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh after violent clashes broke out over the naming of Almaspet Circle, leaving a police inspector seriously injured.
Police have filed an FIR invoking an attempt to murder charge along with several other serious sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The case names 27 accused persons, and includes charges such as rioting, criminal conspiracy, and promoting enmity between groups.
The FIR was filed at Kadapa II Town Police Station on May 10 by injured inspector P. Narasimha Raju, who was attacked during the violence.
What Triggered the Kadapa Clash Over Almaspet Circle
The dispute reportedly began over the demand to rename Almaspet Circle after different figures. One group supported naming it “Tipu Sultan Circle”, while another group backed “Hanuman Circle”.
According to police, tensions escalated when social media posts and public calls were made to gather at the location.
One of the accused, Mohammed Ali, allegedly linked to All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen, reportedly appealed online for people to assemble and push for renaming the junction.
At the same time, banners were put up near a temple demanding the area be named “Hanuman Circle,” which further intensified tensions.
Stone Pelting and Attack on Police Inspector
On May 9, large groups from both sides gathered at Almaspet Circle and began raising slogans. Police were deployed to control the situation, but the crowd soon turned violent.
The FIR states that at around 1:10 pm, Inspector Narasimha Raju was trying to control movement on the eastern side of the circle when he was attacked.
According to his statement, some people in the crowd shouted threats before one individual threw a heavy stone at his head.
He said in his hospital statement, “I was trying to stop the crowd when suddenly a stone hit my head and I fell down bleeding.”
The inspector was rushed to hospital after suffering serious head injuries.
27 Accused Named, Multiple Serious Charges Filed
The FIR includes charges of Attempt to murder, grievous assault on a public servant, rioting with deadly weapons, criminal conspiracy, and promoting enmity between communities.
Police have listed 27 individuals in the case, including people identified as local leaders, workers, and religious figures.
Officials said some accused are linked to groups such as SDPI and IUML, though investigations are still ongoing.
Police Action and Security Measures in Kadapa
Following the violence, authorities imposed Section 144 in the area and deployed additional police forces to prevent further clashes.
Kadapa District Collector Sridhar Cherukuri and Superintendent of Police Shelke Nachiket Vishwanath described the incident as “unfortunate” and warned against spreading rumours.
The SP said, “We have detained some suspects for questioning and further action is being taken. Security has been strengthened to maintain peace.”
He also confirmed that another FIR has been filed in connection with counter allegations.
Political Reactions and Appeal for Peace
The incident has triggered reactions from multiple political leaders. Some opposition leaders demanded the release of detained youth, while others urged strict action against those responsible for violence.
Former MLA Amzath Basha appealed for restraint and said innocent youth should not be targeted.
BJP and TDP leaders also called for peace and urged both communities to avoid escalation, stressing Kadapa’s long history of communal harmony.
Investigation Ongoing in Kadapa Violence Case
Police have confirmed that the investigation is still in progress and more arrests may follow. Officials said the priority is to identify those who incited violence and restore normalcy in the area.
Deputy Inspector General of Police Koya Praveen said, “Such disputes should be resolved through dialogue and not on the streets.”
