Gearing up to take on the attitude of the Election Commission of India (ECI) ahead of local body polls in Andhra Pradesh, chief minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu said that he would convene Cabinet meeting within a week. ECI and the central government are creating blockages for administration in the state and I don’t allow this to happen, said Naidu.

“The TDP government has been elected by the people of Andhra Pradesh and it has full-fledged powers. We’ll hold Cabinet meeting within a week and also visit the Polavaram project to review the progress. We’re ready for local body polls. We demand VVPATs in Municipal elections as well. If there’s a mismatch between EVM and VVPAT, then all the VVPAT slips in the constituency should be counted. If there’s still a mismatch, then EC has to take what should be done. A paper ballot will only ensure transparency in the elections,” maintained Naidu.

Naidu interacted with the media after participating in ‘Praja Vedika’ at Undavalli on Friday. Naidu has further recalled that VVPATs have been introduced in the country as a result of his efforts as he has been fighting against EVMs for over a decade.

“I also moved Supreme Court against EVMs. Responding to the SC, the EC informed that it would take six days for counting VVPAT slips. Later, the SC gave a direction to count five per cent of EVM votes and five per cent of VVPAT slips,” added Naidu.

Criticising the appointment of Chief Secretary by the EC, Naidu said that it’s a different situation in Andhra Pradesh. “Generally, the CS would go to the chief minister and explain about the administrative plan and issues. But, the CS in AP is in the opposite direction. I once again caution that I don’t spare the irresponsible officials,” remarked Naidu.