Chandrababu Naidu, the leader of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, strongly criticized his recent arrest, describing it as “undemocratic and unconstitutional.” His arrest took place in Nandyal district by the state CID, who invoked the Prevention of Corruption Act. Naidu emphasized that authorities had not presented any substantial evidence of his involvement in any wrongdoing in the case.
Naidu firmly asserted, “I am being targeted because I am advocating for the concerns of the people.” The arrest transpired early in the morning, with the CID team led by Deputy Superintendent of Police M. Dhananjayudu acting in connection with the Skill Development Corporation corruption case.
The arrest of Naidu prompted a significant security presence throughout Andhra Pradesh, as TDP supporters rallied across the state to protest his apprehension.
In a recent public interaction in Anantapur district’s Rayadurgam, Naidu, who also serves as the Opposition leader in the state Assembly, had forewarned that he might be arrested in the near future. He openly criticized the YSRCP government led by Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, stating, “Today or tomorrow, they could arrest me. They may even resort to violence. They will commit numerous injustices.” Naidu called upon at least one member from every household to be prepared to make sacrifices for the state and confront an unjust regime.
Naidu underscored his long-standing commitment to an untarnished record, claiming that no one had dared to file a lawsuit against him in 45 years, and there was no concrete proof or evidence against him. Despite several alleged cases filed against him by the late Chief Minister YS Rajasekhar Reddy, Naidu remained unscathed.
The TDP leader vowed to maintain his unwavering resolve until justice was achieved and proclaimed that those who perpetrated injustice would eventually fade into obscurity. He also expressed confidence in his party’s prospects in the upcoming Assembly elections.
Following his arrest, Naidu was served a notice by the CID, citing various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Corruption Act. The notice specified that Naidu could not secure release on bail due to the nature of the offense, categorizing it as non-bailable. However, it indicated that he had the option to seek bail through the court system.
