Viral video: Did Jagan’s convoy run over a man?

A viral video has sparked massive controversy in Andhra Pradesh, allegedly showing a vehicle from former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy’s convoy running over a man during a recent visit to Palnadu district.

Incident during Palnadu visit

The incident occurred on June 18, when Jagan Mohan Reddy, the chief of the YSR Congress Party, was returning after visiting the family of a former sarpanch in Guntur district. The sarpanch had reportedly died by suicide, allegedly due to harassment by ruling TDP workers. During the visit, Mr. Reddy unveiled the sarpanch’s statue and greeted crowds along the way.

Three days later, the death of 55-year-old Cheeli Singaiah came to light. Initially, Guntur’s police chief claimed the vehicle that hit the man was a privately-owned car, not part of the official convoy. However, a video that has now gone viral appears to show Singaiah being run over by the SUV in which Mr. Reddy himself was travelling and waving to supporters.

Blame game

In the footage, Mr. Reddy is seen on the opposite side of the vehicle from the impact, but the visuals have nonetheless triggered a wave of criticism from political opponents. The TDP and Congress have accused him of negligence and demanded accountability. The YSR Congress, however, insists that the video has been doctored.

Singaiah, reportedly a supporter of the YSR Congress, was rushed to the hospital by police but died en route.

According to police, permission was granted for 11 vehicles and 100 supporters for the rally. However, reports indicate that as many as 35 vehicles and hundreds of supporters were part of the convoy.

Party compensation

Meanwhile, the YSR Congress has met Singaiah’s family and provided them with a compensation cheque of Rs 10 lakh.