Seediri Appalaraju Arrested, Remanded for 14 Days in Fatal Road Accident Case

Former Andhra Pradesh minister and senior YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leader Seediri Appalaraju was arrested and remanded to 14 days of judicial custody in connection with an alleged attempt to shield his son, the prime accused in a fatal road accident in Srikakulam district. The arrest marks a significant development in a case that has drawn widespread political and public attention.

Police took Appalaraju into custody on Wednesday night, alleging that he harboured the accused, provided false information, and attempted to mislead investigators after the accident. He was produced before a local court on Thursday, which ordered his judicial remand.

The case relates to a road accident that occurred earlier this month on the old National Highway near Kasibugga, where a 45-year-old man sustained critical injuries after being hit by a motorcycle and later died during treatment. According to the police, the motorcycle was being ridden by Appalaraju's son, who has already been sent to judicial custody as the principal accused in the case.

Investigators alleged that the former minister's son did not possess a valid driving licence at the time of the accident. During the probe, police claimed that efforts were made to conceal the identity of the rider by projecting another individual as the accused. Officials said the investigation uncovered evidence suggesting attempts to influence the course of the inquiry following the fatal crash.

Srikakulam Superintendent of Police K.V. Maheshwara Reddy said the investigation is backed by CCTV footage, technical evidence, and witness statements, which allegedly establish the sequence of events and the involvement of those accused of interfering with the probe. Based on the evidence collected, police registered a case against Appalaraju for allegedly providing shelter to the accused and obstructing the investigation.

Police also alleged that some YSRCP supporters attempted to obstruct officials while the former minister was being taken into custody. Cases have been registered against those accused of hindering police personnel from performing their duties, and authorities warned that strict legal action would be taken against anyone attempting to interfere with law enforcement.

The incident has also triggered a political confrontation in Andhra Pradesh. YSRCP leaders have accused the ruling coalition of targeting opposition leaders, while the police have maintained that the investigation is being conducted strictly on the basis of evidence and in accordance with the law.