Political tensions flared in Pulivendula during the municipal election polling in Andhra Pradesh after an unexpected incident involving YSRCP chief Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and Shaik Dastagiri, an approver in the Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy murder case.
Jagan was travelling through the streets of his hometown in a rally to review the polling situation and encourage party workers when Dastagiri suddenly came in front of his convoy. He reportedly shouted allegations against Jagan, accusing him of having his own uncle, Vivekananda Reddy, murdered and ruining their lives.
As Dastagiri attempted to move closer to Jagan’s vehicle, alert police and security personnel stopped him and moved him away from the convoy. Jagan continued with the rally.
Dastagiri had earlier worked as a driver for Vivekananda Reddy. During the CBI investigation into the murder, he reportedly confessed to his involvement and later turned approver, providing information about the alleged conspiracy and the people involved. Since then, he has made statements naming certain members of the Y.S. family and has sought protection.
Political observers believe Dastagiri’s protest may have been intended to bring the Vivekananda Reddy murder case back into public discussion during Jagan’s campaign in Pulivendula. The incident has triggered considerable discussion locally, with speculation about its possible political repercussions.
The allegations made during the confrontation remain allegations and should not be treated as established facts.