Journalist Krishnam Raju shows no remorse for derogatory remarks

Andhra Pradesh Police have confirmed that journalist and political analyst V.V.R. Krishnam Raju, arrested on June 11, 2025, for making derogatory remarks about Amaravati and its women, expressed no regret for his controversial statements during interrogation.

Krishnam Raju defends his remarks

Raju, who sparked outrage by referring to Amaravati as the “capital of sex workers” during a live debate on Sakshi TV on June 6, 2025, reportedly defended his comments, claiming they were based on a study by the National AIDS Control Organisation.

According to police sources, during questioning at Nallapadu Police Station in Guntur, Raju stated, “Sakshi TV gave me recognition, and that’s why I participate in their debates. I spoke about Amaravati in that context.”

His unapologetic stance has further fueled public and political backlash, with many condemning his remarks as offensive and disrespectful, particularly toward the women of Amaravati.

Raju was apprehended near the Gosthani River in Bheemili, Visakhapatnam district, after evading arrest for several days. The Mangalagiri court sent him to 14-day judicial remand on June 12, 2025, following a complaint by State Madiga Corporation director Khambampati Sirisha. The case, registered under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and other relevant sections, also implicates Sakshi TV’s management and senior journalist Kommineni Srinivasa Rao, who moderated the debate and was arrested earlier on June 9, 2025.

Public outrage

The National Commission for Women (NCW) and the Andhra Pradesh Mahila Commission have taken strong exception to Raju’s remarks, with NCW Chairperson Vijaya K. Rahatkar directing the Andhra Pradesh DGP to conduct a swift investigation. The controversy has also ignited a political storm, with the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) distancing itself from Raju’s comments, labeling them as his personal views, while accusing the ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) of orchestrating a political vendetta.

Public outrage continues, with protests by the Amaravati Women JAC demanding accountability from Sakshi TV and those involved in the broadcast. Raju’s lack of remorse has further intensified calls for stringent action, as authorities continue to investigate the case.