ANDHRA PRADESH: Anantha Babu’s Plea Fails in AP High Court
High Court Upholds Investigation
The Andhra Pradesh High Court declined to stay the Rajahmundry SC and ST Court’s order permitting further investigation into the 2022 murder of Dalit youth Veedhi Subrahmanyam by YSRCP MLC Anantha Babu. The ruling ensures the Special Investigation Team (SIT) can proceed with its probe.
Details of the Crime
On May 19, 2022, Subrahmanyam, a former driver for Anantha Babu, was allegedly murdered in Kakinada. The MLC reportedly delivered the body to the victim’s residence, claiming it was a road accident, sparking widespread outrage.
Initial Investigation and Confession
Kakinada SP Ravindranath Babu revealed Anantha Babu confessed to the crime during interrogation. The MLC was remanded to Rajahmundry Central Jail but later secured interim bail from the Supreme Court in December 2022.
Victim’s Family Seeks Justice
Subrahmanyam’s family, alleging a biased initial probe, demanded a CBI investigation. Their plea for a CBI probe was dismissed by the AP High Court in 2023, but they persisted in seeking justice.
SIT’s Renewed Probe
Following the TDP-led coalition government’s pledge to deliver justice, the SIT sought and obtained permission from the Rajahmundry SC and ST Court to reinvestigate. The court mandated a supplementary charge sheet within 90 days.
High Court’s Decision
Anantha Babu challenged the reinvestigation order in the AP High Court, but the court upheld the lower court’s directive. The SIT is now tasked with examining potential accomplices and re-evaluating evidence.
Public and Political Reactions
The case has drawn significant attention, with Dalit organizations and opposition parties criticizing the initial handling. The reinvestigation reflects the government’s commitment to addressing alleged lapses.