Police prevent TDP legislator from launching fast

Police today foiled attempt by a TDP legislator to launch an indefinite fast here in Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh and took him into custody.
Devineni Umamaheswara Rao was to launch his hunger strike, demanding protection of Seemandhra people's rights in the wake of bifurcation decision, at a site in MG Road.
The MLA was taken into custody when he was getting ready to leave his house here for the fast site, police sources said, adding he has been kept at Town Police Station.
TDP's State Secretary Bonda Umamaheswara Rao was also taken into custody along with Devineni.
Mild tension prevailed in Gollapudi area when the police took away the legislator in a vehicle. TDP workers tried to block their way but police personnel managed to come out of the area.

Police said Devineni was not allowed to take up fast due to the election code which is in force in Krishna district, where an Assembly bypoll is slated on August 21.

Leaders of the main Opposition party condemned the police action. TDP State Secretary Varla Ramaih said the police behaved in a high-handed manner.
How can a legislator be stopped from fasting at a private site? he sought to know.
Devineni was originally scheduled to start his hunger strike from August 15 but put it off for today due to the death of former TDP Member of Parliament Laljan Bhasha.

Meanwhile, TDP gave a call for Vijayawada bandh today to protest the police action.