A 65-year-old YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) worker, Cheeli Singaiah, tragically lost his life after being run over by a vehicle in the convoy of former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy during a political rally in Rentapalla village, Palnadu district, on June 18, 2025.
Initial police reports mistakenly attributed the accident to a private vehicle, but subsequent investigations, supported by CCTV and drone footage, confirmed that the black SUV carrying Jagan was responsible. Following this revelation, the police have escalated the charges from causing death by negligence to culpable homicide not amounting to murder and abetment, naming Jagan, his driver, and several senior party leaders as accused.
The incident has sparked widespread public outrage, political debate, and calls for stricter safety protocols at political events.
Evidence and Investigation Reveal Critical Details
The investigation into the tragic death of Cheeli Singaiah has taken a significant turn with the discovery of video evidence that contradicts earlier police statements. Guntur Superintendent of Police S Satish Kumar confirmed that the footage clearly shows Singaiah slipping and falling in front of the black SUV carrying former CM Jagan Mohan Reddy as he attempted to shower flowers on the convoy.
Despite the driver’s failure to stop immediately, police detained Ramana Reddy, the driver, for questioning. The inquiry has expanded to include Jagan’s personal assistant K Nageshwar Reddy, senior leader YV Subbareddy, former MLA Perni Venkataramaiah, and former minister Vidadala Rajini, all named in the FIR.
The police have upgraded the charges from Section 106(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (causing death by negligence) to Sections 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) and 49 (abetment), reflecting the severity of the incident and the accountability expected from those involved.
Political Repercussions and Public Response
The incident has triggered a wave of political backlash and public concern across Andhra Pradesh. Opposition parties have condemned the tragedy, demanding a transparent and impartial investigation. The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) criticised the handling of the rally and the safety measures in place, with leader Lavu Krishnadevarayalu stating, “Political rallies should be platforms of hope and unity, not scenes of avoidable tragedy.
The government must ensure strict safety protocols to protect citizens.” Meanwhile, YSRCP leaders have expressed condolences and extended financial assistance of ₹10 lakh to Singaiah’s family, though many community members feel this gesture falls short of addressing the deeper issues of accountability and public safety.
The police’s revision of their initial statements has also raised questions about procedural transparency, prompting calls from civil society for an independent probe.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This heartbreaking incident is a solemn reminder of the paramount importance of safety, empathy, and accountability in public and political life. While political engagement is vital to democracy, it must never come at the cost of human lives.
The Logical Indian urges all stakeholders—political leaders, law enforcement agencies, and citizens—to work collaboratively to establish and enforce stringent safety protocols at public events.
Moreover, transparency in investigations and genuine accountability are essential to restore public trust. As we reflect on this tragedy, we invite our readers to consider: How can we collectively foster a political culture that values human dignity and ensures the safety of every individual present at public gatherings?
