GG News Bureau
Amaravati, 26th June: Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party chief YS Jaganmohan Reddy has filed a petition in the High Court seeking the quashing of the criminal case filed against him in connection with the death of a party worker who was allegedly run over by a vehicle during his recent visit to Palnadu district.
In his appeal, Mr Reddy maintained that he is innocent and is being deliberately framed, accusing the ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) of politicising a tragic incident for electoral gain. “I am innocent and am being falsely implicated,” he said in his affidavit.
The controversy erupted earlier this month after a video surfaced showing a man, later identified as Cheeli Singayya, reportedly being run over by a vehicle during Reddy’s visit to the residence of a former sarpanch. In the footage, Reddy can be seen leaning out from the opposite side of his car, waving and greeting supporters. The TDP alleged that the vehicle involved in the incident was part of Reddy’s convoy.
Reddy has questioned the inconsistency in police statements—the initial report claiming the vehicle was not part of his convoy, while the final one listed him as Accused No. 2. His legal plea also includes a written statement from Singayya’s family, who have received compensation and support from YSRCP leaders.
Defending himself further, Reddy said Z-Plus security protocols were not properly enforced by the state government during his movement. “If the area around my convoy had been cordoned off as mandated under Z-Plus protection norms, this tragic accident could have been averted,” he argued. He accused the TDP government of using the incident to divert public attention from what he described as “failures in governance.”
The Andhra Pradesh government has, however, rejected these claims. State Home Minister V Anitha said Mr Reddy continues to receive Z-Plus level security, including a bulletproof car, pilot, and escort, despite not currently holding the position of Leader of the Opposition. “We are extending him all necessary security on humanitarian grounds,” she said.
The case has intensified political tensions in the state, with the YSR Congress accusing the TDP of vendetta politics, while the ruling party insists on accountability and due process in the probe.
The High Court is expected to hear Reddy’s plea in the coming days. Meanwhile, investigations into the incident continue.
