Is the Arrest of MP P.V. Midhun Reddy a Case of Political Vendetta?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- YSR Congress Party condemns the arrest of MP P.V. Midhun Reddy.
- Allegations are viewed as a political vendetta by the ruling party.
- Concerns over the misuse of power against opposition leaders.
- Public support for YSRCP remains strong despite the circumstances.
- Future legal actions are anticipated as the situation develops.
Vijayawada, July 19 (NationPress) The YSR Congress Party has vehemently denounced the detention of Lok Sabha MP and Party floor leader P.V. Midhun Reddy, labeling it a blatant instance of political vendetta orchestrated by Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu.
YSRCP leaders, including former ministers Botsa Satyanarayana, Perni Venkatramaiah (Nani), Ambati Rambabu, Merugu Nagarjuna, and party general secretary G. Srikanth Reddy, voiced their strong opposition to the abuse of authority targeting opposition figures.
In a statement, they asserted that the arrest, following a lengthy interrogation regarding the alleged liquor scam, demonstrates the lengths to which Chandrababu is willing to go to stifle dissent. They emphasized that such tactics are temporary and that public support for YSRCP is unwavering.
The leaders cautioned that the ruling party cannot undermine YSRCP through fabricated charges or coercive arrests. They also contended that the liquor scam allegations are based on false evidence and coerced confessions.
They recalled that from 2014 to 2019, it was Chandrababu Naidu’s administration that engaged in numerous irregularities concerning liquor sales. Now, to shift the focus from these issues, a deceptive narrative has been crafted, leading to arrests based solely on pressured testimonies.
The party leaders clarified that under YSRCP governance, the liquor policy was transparent and managed directly by the state. The number of liquor outlets was reduced, and belt shops and permit rooms were eliminated.
They pledged to remain steadfast with the community and combat such political conspiracies with resolve and courage.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) apprehended Midhun Reddy on Saturday after nearly seven hours of questioning at their office.
Midhun Reddy is the fourth accused in this case, which was filed last year following the TDP-led NDA taking power in the state.
His arrest occurred just after the Supreme Court rejected his anticipatory bail plea. Previously, the Andhra Pradesh High Court had also dismissed his application.
The SIT reportedly uncovered significant irregularities and financial misappropriation related to the liquor policy from 2019 to 2024.
Midhun Reddy’s detention followed the SIT's filing of a preliminary chargesheet in the case, comprising a 300-page document submitted to the ACB court along with forensic lab findings.