Internal rifts within the ruling alliance in Pithapuram escalated into a physical confrontation on Tuesday during an official government event. The dispute began at the Pithapuram Area Development Authority (PADA) office, where a program was organized to distribute checks and mobile phones to women’s self-help groups. What was intended to be a routine administrative event turned chaotic as former MLAs S.V.S.N. Varma (TDP) and Pendem Dorababu (Janasena) engaged in a heated argument that eventually led to pushing and shoving between their respective supporters.
The tension ignited when S.V.S.N. Varma questioned the PADA Project Director regarding the absence of Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu’s photograph on the event’s official banners. As officials attempted to provide an explanation, Pendem Dorababu—who recently shifted from YSRCP to Janasena—intervened, suggesting that Varma was unnecessarily creating a controversy. The verbal spat quickly turned physical when Dorababu reportedly charged toward Varma, prompting activists from both TDP and Janasena to clash. Police and other local leaders had to step in to separate the groups, after which a visibly upset Varma left the venue in his vehicle.
This incident highlights a deepening power struggle in Pithapuram, a constituency represented by Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan. TDP cadres are reportedly frustrated over the perceived sidelining of Varma, who sacrificed his seat for Pawan Kalyan’s victory. The entry of Dorababu into Janasena has further complicated the local political equations, leading to friction over official protocol and leadership dominance. While Janasena leaders accuse Varma of obstructing government programs, the TDP wing has vowed to complain to the high command about the “culture of attacks” and the alleged bias of local officials.
