Anantapur District: A controversy has erupted in Yadiki Mandal of Anantapur district over the issuance of election passes to media personnel. Journalists have raised serious allegations against Election Officer Shameem Basha and MPDO Veeraraju, accusing them of adopting inconsistent standards in issuing passes for election duty.
According to media representatives, election officials initially issued passes to some journalists without insisting on accreditation. However, later in the day, the officials reportedly stated that only accredited journalists would be eligible to receive election passes. The sudden change in stance has sparked criticism and raised questions about the transparency and fairness of the process.
When questioned over the discrepancy, the officials allegedly responded by saying, “Bring us the details of those who were issued passes, and we will cancel them if necessary.” Journalists claim this contradictory approach has created confusion and uncertainty among media personnel assigned to cover the elections.
The issue has drawn further criticism after a woman journalist reportedly faced difficulties in obtaining an election pass. Media circles have questioned whether such treatment of journalists could undermine transparent election coverage and restrict the media’s ability to perform its duties effectively.
Journalists have urged district election authorities to ensure a fair, transparent, and uniform policy in the issuance of election passes so that all eligible media personnel can discharge their professional responsibilities without discrimination.
