YSRCP Leader Ambati Rambabu Remanded to Judicial Custody for 14 Days
In a significant legal development, YSRCP leader and former minister Ambati Rambabu was remanded to judicial custody for 14 days by a Guntur court on Thursday. This action is connected to the alleged Sankranti lucky draw case, which has drawn widespread attention for its implications on public funds and political accountability.
Court Proceedings and Remand Order
The Guntur principal court issued the remand orders after Rambabu was produced before it on a prisoner transit (PT) warrant. Earlier, the chief senior civil judge had directed authorities to produce him by the 18th of this month. Acting on these orders, police transported Rambabu from Rajamahendravaram Central Jail to the Guntur court. Following a thorough hearing of the case details and examination of records, the judge mandated a 14-day judicial remand. Subsequently, Rambabu was transferred back to Rajamahendravaram Central Jail, where he will remain during this period.
Background of the Sankranti Lucky Draw Case
The case revolves around Sankranti celebrations organized in January 2023 in the Sattenapalli constituency, during Rambabu's tenure as a minister under the YSRCP regime. Allegations suggest that Rs 200 was illegally deducted from the monthly pensions of beneficiaries through volunteers. In exchange, each pensioner received two lottery tickets as part of a festive lucky draw. Prizes were later distributed via a lottery on Sankranti day, raising concerns about the misuse of public funds and exploitation of vulnerable individuals.
Complaint and Police Investigation
Guntur district Jana Sena president Gade Venkateswara Rao filed a formal complaint with the Guntur chief senior civil court, accusing Rambabu and others of unlawfully collecting money from pensioners. Based on this complaint, the Sattenapalli town police registered a case against Rambabu and his associates. The investigation is currently ongoing, with authorities examining evidence and witness statements to determine the full extent of the alleged misconduct.
Implications and Public Reaction
This case has sparked public debate over ethical governance and the protection of pension funds. Many view the judicial custody as a step towards accountability, while others await further developments in the investigation. The incident underscores the importance of transparency in political activities and the need for stringent measures to prevent financial exploitation of citizens.
