YS Viveka Murder: Key Witnesses Dead, Naidu Orders Probe

Kadapa former MP and YS Jagan’s uncle (Babayi) YS Vivekananda Reddy’s murder heated up the state politics in 2019 and 2024. Even as the investigation by the CBI is underway and the key culprits behind this brutal crime are yet to be punished, the investigation is facing several challenges as many of its key witnesses have died in a suspicious manner.

Death of YS Viveka’s watchman Ranganna is a hot topic currently. There are several doubts around his death.

With this, the government has acted on concerns raised by Ranganna’s wife, Susheelamma, and registered his death as suspicious instead of a natural cause. His body was immediately shifted to the Kadapa Government General Hospital for a post-mortem examination by a special medical team. A special investigation officer has been appointed to handle the case.

B.Tech Ravi, TDP’s in-charge for the Pulivendula constituency and a former MLC, has stated that while there are reports of four witness deaths, in reality, six people have died. He urged Chief Minister Naidu to immediately order a thorough inquiry.

The six individuals who reportedly died include Srinivasula Reddy, Gangadhar Reddy, E.C. Gangireddy, Abhishek Reddy, driver Narayana, and Ranganna. Among them, Abhishek Reddy had given a statement in the Vivekananda Reddy murder case. Ravi alleged that although Jagan’s relative Dr Abhishek Reddy was in a coma for four months, Jagan Mohan Reddy did not visit him, only showing up after his death.

BJP MLA Adinaryana Reddy too echoed similar views and raised doubts over deaths of Abhishek Reddy and Ranganna.

Even CM Chandrababu Naidu pointed out that despite having no involvement, TDP had to bear the blame for the murder, while YSRCP gained political advantage. Babu urged party members to ensure such situations do not arise in the future.

AP Police have so far confirmed the deaths of four key witnesses in the case, while the TDP claims that six people linked to the case have died under mysterious circumstances. Amid these concerns, the NDA government has ordered a thorough investigation, bringing in forensic experts to ensure a thorough probe.

SP Ashok Kumar has been tasked with overseeing the investigation, and a clear statement has been issued regarding the government’s commitment to uncovering the truth.