The brutal murder of Lakshmi Naidu in Darakanipadu, has sparked a political storm after certain YCP-leaning groups allegedly attempted to portray the incident as a caste-based attack. Since the victim belonged to the Kapu community and the accused, Harishchandra Prasad, is reportedly from the Kamma community, attempts were made to ignite caste tensions and target NDA alliance parties, particularly TDP and Jana Sena, which represent these communities in the region.
However, the Andhra Pradesh government, led by CM Chandrababu Naidu, moved swiftly to take control of the situation before it could spiral into a caste conflict. Ministers Vangalapudi Anitha (Home Minister), Dr. Narayana, and Kandukur MLA Nageswara Rao immediately visited the victim’s family in Nellore district to offer support and oversee the progress of the investigation.
Home Minister Anitha clarified during the visit that preliminary investigations indicate the murder stemmed from a financial dispute, not caste animosity. She condemned attempts to politicize the incident or turn it into a caste war, stating that brutal crimes should be dealt with legally, not emotionally distorted for political motives.
The accused, Harishchandra Prasad, and his father were arrested soon after the attack. Police confirmed that multiple cases, including harassment complaints filed by the victim’s wife, were already registered against him earlier. Lakshmi Naidu’s brothers, Pawan and Bhargav, who were injured during the incident, are currently receiving treatment.
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu personally spoke to the victim’s wife over phone, assuring her that the government will not spare anyone responsible. Responding to her plea for strict punishment, the CM ordered that the accused should face immediate legal consequences even during remand and directed officials to set up a special court for fast-tracking the case.
The ministers stressed that those responsible for such heinous crimes have no right to roam free, regardless of their caste or political connections. They urged the public not to fall into divisive narratives and instead support the victim’s family in their fight for justice.
With the government stepping in firmly and refusing to allow any caste or political twist to overshadow the core issue of justice, the case is now under high-level monitoring to ensure a speedy verdict and closure for the grieving family.
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