A day after the peaceful conclusion of Nandyal bye-poll, a private gunman of TDP leader Abhiruchi Madhu Sai, fired gunshots in the air on Thursday, in a bid to control a clash that broke out between rival TDP and YSR Congress activists.

According to reports, followers of YSR Congress leader Silpa Chakrapani Reddy were on their way to Salim Nagar to pay tribute to a deceased YSR Congress minority leader. After reaching Suraj Grand Hotel, they spotted TDP leader Abhiruchi Madhu’s car and pelted stones on it.

In retaliation, the TDP supporters too pelted stones, which resulted in an all-out clash.

Sensing trouble, Madhu’s private gunman allegedly fired in the air and this caused high tension near Suraj hotel area.

Police officials rushed to the spot and chased away the groups, bringing the situation under control.

Nandyal II town Circle Inspector told TNM that they have registered a case under IPC section 307 (attempt to murder), following a complaint by Madhu Sai. He added that the other group is likely to file a counter complaint.

The Nandyal bye-poll was conducted after the demise of TDP MLA Bhuma Nagi Reddy, who succumbed to a heart ailment earlier in February this year.

On Wednesday, families of TDP MLA Bhuma Nagi Reddy and YSR Congress leader Silpa Reddy had created a ruckus in Nandyal on the day of polling, after they heckled each other in Ward number 7.

Bhuma and Silpa’s families are considered to be arch-rivals, and both had taken up this election as a prestigious battle.