In a major development that has shaken Andhra Pradesh politics, former Chief Minister and YSRCP supremo Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has been booked by the police after a tragic accident involving his convoy led to the death of a 65-year-old party worker.
The incident occurred in Guntur while Jagan was en route to console a bereaved family in Palnadu district. The deceased, identified as Cheeli Singaiah, was allegedly run over by the vehicle in which Jagan was travelling. Visuals of the tragedy have gone viral, intensifying public outrage and political scrutiny. The police have acted swiftly, registering an FIR against Jagan, his driver, and senior party leaders.
Accident That Sparked an FIR
The fatal accident happened on the outskirts of Guntur when a large crowd gathered to greet Jagan’s convoy. Cheeli Singaiah, a devoted YSRCP worker from Vengalayapalem village, reportedly fell in front of the former CM’s car and was tragically crushed under its wheels.
Initially dismissed as an accident involving a private vehicle, a detailed probe and viral video footage confirmed the involvement of Jagan’s official vehicle. The police subsequently booked Jagan, his driver Ramana Reddy, former MP Y.V. Subbareddy, and ex-ministers Vidadala Rajani and Perni Nani under relevant IPC sections.
Police Investigation and Evidence
Guntur Superintendent of Police Satish Kumar confirmed that the police have gathered conclusive evidence. “We have proof that Singaiah was crushed under the wheels of Jagan Mohan Reddy’s vehicle,” he stated. Ramana Reddy, the driver, was taken into custody for questioning. Police are collecting eyewitness statements and analyzing CCTV footage to ensure a thorough investigation. The authorities are also probing why the convoy failed to stop after the incident.
Additional Death and Political Fallout
On the same day, another supporter, 30-year-old P Jayvardhan Reddy, collapsed in a crowded gathering near Sattenapalli clock tower and was declared dead upon arrival at Guntur Government Hospital. The incident has drawn criticism from the public and political circles over crowd management during high-profile visits. Furthermore, the event gained notoriety due to a controversial placard displayed by a YSRCP supporter that read: “When YSRCP comes to power in 2029: rapa rapa narukuta” a movie dialogue meaning “cut them down, one by one.”
Controversial Placard Adds Fuel to Fire
The placard incident further escalated tensions. Police registered a case against the man who held it, identified as T Raviteja. Home Minister V Anitha condemned the display and accused Jagan of promoting violent political narratives. Jagan, however, defended the placard, stating, “So, now you can’t even quote a line from a movie?” His comments have only intensified the ongoing debate over political responsibility and rhetoric.
Not the First Time: History of Tragedy in Jagan’s Roadshows
This isn’t the first time that a public event featuring Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has ended in tragedy. During a roadshow in January 2023 in Anantapur district, a 38-year-old party worker died in a stampede when a massive crowd surged forward to greet the former Chief Minister. The event, which was meant to be a part of Jagan’s ‘Memantha Siddham’ campaign, turned chaotic as thousands gathered in close quarters, leading to a deadly crush near the stage. Despite repeated warnings by the police, the crowd swelled uncontrollably. The victim, identified as Lakshmamma, was declared brought dead at the hospital. Several others were injured in the melee. Similar incidents have been reported in other YSRCP gatherings as well, highlighting ongoing concerns about inadequate crowd management and lack of safety protocols during political mobilisations. Critics argue that emotional loyalty often clouds logistical planning, putting ordinary supporters at serious risk.
Need for Political Responsibility in Crowd Management
This tragic sequence of events underscores the pressing need for political leaders to ensure proper crowd control during public appearances. The unfortunate death of Cheeli Singaiah and the collapse of another supporter serve as grim reminders of what can happen when large gatherings are not adequately managed. Politicians and party organizers must prioritize safety protocols and plan such visits responsibly to prevent similar incidents in the future.
