Telugu Desam Party (TDP) spokesman Kommareddy Pattabhiram, responding to the arrest of party president and former Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu, asserted that the Andhra Pradesh police and the Crime Investigation Department (CID) had initiated what he deemed an unlawful apprehension. According to Pattabhiram, this action began on Saturday evening and saw a significant police presence surrounding Chandrababu Naidu's campsite.
Naidu's detention is related to a multi-crore scam involving Andhra Pradesh's State Skill Development Corporation (APSSDC). In defense of Naidu, Pattabhiram emphasized the extensive establishment of skill development centers during his tenure as Chief Minister. He questioned the legitimacy of the arrests in the absence of concrete evidence.
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Pattabhiram highlighted that Naidu, being under Z-plus security and guarded by the National Security Guard (NSG), raised concerns about the manner and timing of his arrest. He revealed that even NSG officials advised against the early morning arrest.
The arrest unfolded at RK Function Hall, with TDP supporters gathering in protest. Initial resistance came from Special Protection Group (SPG) forces, who guarded Naidu. The former CM demanded an explanation for his detention, to which, according to Pattabhiram, the police provided no satisfactory response.
Following the arrest, Naidu was being transported to Vijayawada, facing a litany of non-bailable charges. Pattabhiram decried the timing, linking it to upcoming elections and suggesting a ploy to tarnish Naidu's image.
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Pattabhiram didn't mince words when criticizing Andhra Pradesh chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, asserting him as the most corrupt politician in the nation. He contrasted Naidu's record of unproven corruption charges with Reddy's numerous chargesheets and highlighted Reddy's substantial wealth.
Nara Lokesh, Naidu's son, led protests in Andhra Pradesh, echoing calls for justice. TDP members also staged demonstrations in various locations across the state. The situation led to border checks affecting Tamil Nadu buses entering Andhra Pradesh.
Responding to his arrest, Naidu conveyed his unwavering commitment to the Telugu people, vowing to sacrifice for their welfare. In a social media post, he declared his readiness to serve, undeterred by any force. Despite the circumstances, he called for restraint and expressed confidence in the triumph of truth and righteousness. The arrest transpired early in the morning, with officers approaching Naidu's caravan to effect his detention.
