Dr Suneetha Narreddy Calls for Expedited Disciplinary Action Against UCIL Employee in Viveka Murder Case
In a significant development, Dr Suneetha Narreddy, the daughter of former minister YS Vivekananda Reddy, has formally urged the Uranium Corporation of India Ltd (UCIL) to accelerate disciplinary measures against its employee, Gajjela Uday Kumar Reddy. Uday Kumar Reddy was designated as Accused No. 6 by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the high-profile Viveka murder case, which has drawn widespread attention across Andhra Pradesh and beyond.
Background of the Case and Arrest Details
Gajjela Uday Kumar Reddy served as a general foreman (mechanical) at the UCIL plant located in Thummalapalli, within the Pulivendula constituency. His arrest on April 14, 2023, marked a pivotal moment in the investigation into the murder of YS Vivekananda Reddy. After more than a year in legal proceedings, Uday Kumar Reddy was granted conditional bail on August 21, 2024, allowing him temporary freedom while the case continues.
Complaint Highlights Delays and Concerns Over Employee Protection
Dr Narreddy submitted a detailed complaint to UCIL's deputy general manager and plant in-charge, Suman Sarkar, on Thursday. In her communication, she raised critical questions about the corporation's handling of the situation. She pointed out that despite Uday Kumar Reddy's suspension and an absence from work exceeding 490 days, he appeared to receive undue protection from the organization.
"After receiving the bail intimation on August 26, 2024, UCIL initiated the suspension of Uday Kumar Reddy after an 'inexplicable delay' of 11 months. As of January 19, 2026, he has completed six months under suspension," Dr Narreddy stated, emphasizing the prolonged timeline that has raised eyebrows regarding procedural efficiency.
Demand for Timely Departmental Inquiry and Reinstatement Issues
Dr Narreddy stressed that suspension cannot be indefinite and called for the departmental inquiry to be concluded within a reasonable timeframe. She expressed deep concern over Uday Kumar Reddy's plea for reinstatement, arguing that reinstating an individual accused in a murder case would establish a dangerous precedent. "Reinstating an accused in a murder case would set a wrong precedent," she asserted, highlighting the potential implications for corporate governance and legal accountability.
Her demands underscore the need for UCIL to adhere to strict disciplinary protocols and ensure that justice is served without unnecessary delays. The case continues to unfold, with stakeholders closely monitoring UCIL's response to these pressing concerns.
