YSRCP Demands CBI Probe into Kranthi Kumar Death

Vijayawada, June 23: Senior YSRCP leaders have demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the death of Dalit youth Perupogu Kranthi Kumar, alleging that police harassment played a role in the incident and that an independent investigation is necessary to ensure justice.

Former Minister Ambati Rambabu and MLC Monditoka Arun Kumar visited Kranthi Kumar's family in Vijayawada on Tuesday along with party leaders and expressed support to the bereaved family.

Speaking to the media, Arun Kumar alleged that Kranthi Kumar's death reflected the challenges faced by Dalits under the present coalition government. He claimed that 17 Dalit youths had died over the past two years due to alleged harassment and persecution, including 15 Madiga youths and two Mala youths.

He criticized the government and ruling coalition leaders for what he termed a lack of response to such incidents. Arun Kumar further demanded that a case be registered under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and sought compensation of ₹1 crore, allocation of government land to the victim's family, and a personal visit by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.

Ambati Rambabu alleged that Kranthi Kumar had named individuals responsible for his distress in a selfie video recorded before his death. He claimed that the victim had faced repeated harassment and intimidation, which allegedly drove him to consume poison.

The former minister also questioned the manner in which the case was initially handled and raised concerns over the preservation of evidence. Referring to the separate Sai Krishna case, Rambabu alleged similarities in the circumstances and demanded that both cases be handed over to the CBI for investigation.

The YSRCP leaders maintained that only an independent central agency probe could establish the facts and ensure justice for the victims' families. Government authorities have not yet officially responded to the latest demand for a CBI inquiry.