In a recent development in Andhra Pradesh politics, Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has strongly denied any involvement in the arrest of former Chief Minister and TDP leader Chandrababu Naidu. Reddy, addressing the allegations, emphasized that his actions are devoid of political vendettas and that Naidu’s arrest is not motivated by revenge.
The Clarification by CM YS Jagan Reddy
Reddy firmly stated that he was in London at the time of Naidu’s arrest and categorically refuted any role in orchestrating it. He underscored that Naidu could have promptly sought bail if he believed his arrest had political undertones.
Central Agency Inquiries and Investigations
The Chief Minister elaborated that the investigations and inquiries leading to Naidu’s arrest were conducted by central agencies, including the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Income Tax Department. Reddy pointed out that the Income Tax Department had previously issued notices to Naidu as part of the ongoing investigations.
Allegations of Evasion
Accusing Naidu of attempting to evade investigations, Reddy asserted that during Naidu’s tenure as Chief Minister, he obstructed the entry of agencies like the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), ED, and Income Tax into Andhra Pradesh. Reddy expressed concern that despite the presence of compelling evidence against Naidu, some individuals were misleading the public by characterizing Naidu’s arrest as unlawful.
Support for Truth Over Injustice
CM Reddy urged the public to reject such misleading claims and stand for the truth. He emphasized that supporting Naidu, who faces allegations of financial impropriety involving public funds, would be unjust to the impoverished citizens of the state.
BJP’s Influence in Andhra Pradesh Politics
In a significant revelation, Reddy highlighted the close ties between Naidu’s party, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He noted that one of his closest family members currently holds the position of state BJP chief. Reddy also drew attention to the fact that many former TDP leaders now constitute a substantial portion of the state BJP apparatus. Reddy emphasized that if Naidu genuinely believed his arrest was politically motivated, he could have sought assistance from the BJP.
In conclusion, Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy’s denial of involvement in Chandrababu Naidu’s arrest underscores the complexity of Andhra Pradesh’s political landscape, marked by allegations, investigations, and evolving relationships between political parties.
