Why Was Andhra Pradesh Minister's Cousin Arrested for Assaulting a Police Constable?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Bobbala Madana Bhupal Reddy was arrested for assaulting a police constable.
- The incident took place during a temple inauguration in Kolimigundla.
- Minister B. C. Janardhan Reddy condemned the assault and called for legal action.
- The opposition party criticized the government's handling of the situation.
- The case raises concerns about political influence over law enforcement.
Amaravati, Aug 1 (NationPress) The Andhra Pradesh Police have detained Bobbala Madana Bhupal Reddy, the cousin of state Minister B. C. Janardhan Reddy, for physically assaulting a police constable during the inauguration of a temple.
Reddy was taken into custody on Friday, just hours after a First Information Report (FIR) was filed against him.
The incident occurred at the Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple in Kolimigundla, located in Nandyal district, when Bhupal Reddy slapped on-duty constable Jaswanth Kumar for attempting to prevent him from accessing a restricted area. The entire altercation was recorded on camera and subsequently went viral on social media.
A police complaint detailed that the accused not only slapped the constable but also verbally abused him in front of witnesses.
The authorities have registered a case against Bhupal Reddy under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for obstructing and assaulting a public servant.
Minister Janardhan Reddy, associated with the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), was present at the event and condemned the attack on the constable. He stated that he had instructed senior police officials to proceed with an FIR and ensure legal measures were taken.
Additionally, Human Resources Development Minister Nara Lokesh also denounced the incident, labeling such behavior as intolerable and emphasizing that the law would take its course.
The opposition party, YSR Congress Party, criticized the TDP-led government for the incident, claiming it showcases the arrogance and lawlessness prevalent among TDP leaders and their families. They expressed concerns over the police force being exploited for political ends.
This incident raises troubling questions about the rule of law in Andhra Pradesh, as it highlights the growing impunity enjoyed by those connected to power.