‘Jagan, Meeting Ganja Gang will send wrong signal’

In a sudden development, YSRCP chief YS Jagan announced a visit to Tenali in Guntur district, scheduled for Tuesday. The decision, made public on Monday morning, comes days after a controversial police lathi-charge incident involving three youths that sparked outrage across the state.

One of the youths, identified as John Victor, reportedly sustained serious injuries during the incident. Jagan is now heading to Tenali to meet and console him before returning to Tadepalli.

However, the situation is far from straightforward. The youths involved already face multiple criminal charges, including one for allegedly attacking a police constable. While the incident occurred nearly a week ago, Jagan’s delayed response is now drawing criticism.

Reacting strongly, AP Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha condemned Jagan’s move, claiming the injured were not innocent victims but individuals with criminal backgrounds linked to drug activities. She questioned the message Jagan is sending to the public by showing sympathy towards such individuals. “Should those who attack police be sympathized with instead of being punished?” she asked.

Meanwhile, the ruling NDA govt appear to be strategizing on how to counter Jagan’s visit. They argue that supporting accused individuals sends the wrong political message and accuse Jagan of indulging in drama for public sympathy. Minister Anitha even pointed out that when TDP leaders visited their injured cadre in the past, cases were filed against them, hinting that similar action against Jagan wouldn’t be surprising.