The Andhra Pradesh High Court has granted interim relief to former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy in a case related to the death of a YSRCP supporter, who was fatally run over by a vehicle in his convoy during a rally in Guntur district on June 18. The court observed that “accidents happen despite all precautions—even at the Kumbh Mela”, while adjourning the matter to July 1.
🚨 The Incident: A Tragic Turn During a Political Visit
The deceased, Cheeli Singaiah (53), was among the crowd gathered to greet Jagan Reddy during his visit to Rentapalla to console the family of a deceased party leader. Amid the commotion, one of the vehicles in the convoy allegedly ran over Singaiah, causing fatal injuries. He was rushed to Guntur Government Hospital, where he succumbed.
🧾 FIR and Political Fallout
- An FIR was filed against Jagan Reddy and five others, including his driver, personal assistant, and senior YSRCP leaders
- Charges include causing death by negligence and culpable homicide not amounting to murder
- The police identified the vehicle involved as part of Jagan’s convoy and seized it for investigation
YSRCP leaders claimed the incident was accidental, while the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) alleged security lapses and demanded accountability. Jagan Reddy termed the FIR a “politically motivated distraction” by the new Chandrababu Naidu-led government.
⚖️ Court’s Observation and Relief
While granting interim relief, the High Court noted:
“Even at the Kumbh Mela, despite all precautions, accidents have occurred. This incident must be viewed in that context.”
Jagan Reddy’s legal team argued that he was being falsely implicated, submitting a statement from the victim’s family and proof of compensation provided by the party.
📌 What’s Next?
- The case is scheduled for further hearing on July 1
- The court has not quashed the FIR but has stayed coercive action against Jagan Reddy until the next hearing
- The incident has sparked a wider debate on VIP convoy safety protocols and political accountability
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