What’s This GO 1, Why HC Shocked AP Govt?

The YCP government faced a setback in the High Court yet again. The GO 1 issued at the beginning of this year banning rallies, dharnas on roads. In addition, public meetings and roadshows would also be not given permission, as per the GO.

The High Court suspended the GO 1/2023 while hearing to a petition filed by CPI state secretary Ramakrishna regarding the same. Ramakrishna filed the petition a couple of days ago. The court also mentioned that the orders would be in force till January 23 and observed that the GO was completely in violation of the norms. It also directed the YCP government to file counter petition in connection with the case.

The Opposition parties fumed at the YCP government for issuing the GO and alleged that it was aimed at stifling their voice.

However, the government argued that the GO was issued to avoid stampedes like that which occurred in Kandukuru and Guntur, during TDP chief N. Chandrababu Naidu’s roadshows. Further, it said that the responsibility to protect the lives of the people lied with the government and hence, it was forced to take the decision.