Synopsis
The pilot and co-pilot of a helicopter linked to the alleged damage during Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy's visit to Sri Sathya Sai district presented themselves to police for questioning amid security concerns and allegations of negligence.Key Takeaways
- The pilot and co-pilot were interrogated by police.
- The helicopter's windshield was reportedly damaged.
- YSR Congress Party criticized the TDP government for security lapses.
- Jagan Mohan Reddy had to return by road due to safety concerns.
- The police are investigating the incident.
Amaravati, April 16 (NationPress) The pilot and co-pilot of a helicopter, which was reportedly damaged during the visit of former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy to Sri Sathya Sai district last week, attended a police inquiry on Wednesday.
Responding to police summons, Pilot Anil Kumar and Co-Pilot S. Jain presented themselves at the C. K. Palli police station before the Deputy Superintendent of Police and Circle Inspector.
Extensive security measures were implemented around the police station during their interrogation.
On April 8, Jagan Mohan Reddy arrived at Papireddypalli village via helicopter to offer condolences to the family of a leader who was allegedly murdered by the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) cadres.
During the visit, YSRCP supporters breached the barricades at the helipad, leading to a situation where the helicopter's windshield sustained damage.
This incident compelled Jagan Mohan Reddy to make a road journey back to Bengaluru.
The YSR Congress Party criticized the TDP-led government for inadequate security measures, claiming that the former chief minister had to retreat by road due to the helicopter's compromised safety.
YSRCP officials have denounced the state government for not ensuring sufficient police presence at the helipad, considering that the former chief minister enjoys Z plus category protection.
The police have initiated an investigation into the claims, summoning both the pilot and co-pilot to clarify how they managed to fly back if the helicopter posed a risk to Jagan.
Additionally, the pilot and co-pilot did not notify the police regarding the damage to the windshield.
This helicopter is owned by a private firm based in Karnataka, and the police have expressed skepticism about the assertion that the helicopter's windshield was indeed damaged.
