The Election Commission has directed the authorities concerned to register a case against Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy for trying to influence voters after the deadline for campaigning ended for Thursday's by-elections.

State Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) I V Subba Rao issued the order for taking action against Dr Reddy under section 126 of the Representation of the People Act for addressing a press meet and recalling his Government's achievements on Thursday.

He also ordered lodging of cases against television channels for telecasting the chief minister's press meet live.

Besides, Rao directed the police to register cases against State BC Welfare Minister M Mukesh Goud for allegedly manhandling CPI(M) MP P Madhu on Wednesday evening.