Andhra Pradesh police have arrested journalist Krishnam Raju for allegedly making derogatory and obscene remarks about the women of Amaravati during a televised panel discussion, a statement that sparked widespread public outrage and political condemnation across the state.
Krishnam Raju was identified as the prime accused (A1) in the case and was apprehended by Tullur police near the Gosthani River close to Bheemili, using mobile tower location tracking. He is being transferred to Mangalagiri for further interrogation.
Origin of the Controversy
The controversy erupted during a panel discussion aired on Sakshi TV, a news channel affiliated with the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP). Moderated by senior journalist Kommineni Srinivasa Rao, the programme featured Krishnam Raju allegedly making the inflammatory statement, “Amaravati is the capital of prostitutes.”
The moment the remark was broadcast, it triggered immediate public outrage, leading to protests, multiple FIRs, and swift action from law enforcement.
Legal and Civic Repercussions
- Massive protests erupted across Amaravati and beyond, with citizens and women’s rights groups staging demonstrations demanding action against those involved.
- Residents of the Amaravati Capital Region marched to Tullur police station to formally lodge complaints.
- Multiple police cases have been registered in districts across Andhra Pradesh.
- The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo moto cognizance of the issue.
- TDP MP Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu has also filed a complaint with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
Ongoing Investigation
Earlier, Kommineni Srinivasa Rao, the show’s moderator, was arrested and remanded for 14 days by a court in Mangalagiri. With Krishnam Raju’s arrest, authorities are expected to expand the investigation to determine accountability at both individual and institutional levels, including Sakshi TV’s editorial oversight.
