Jagan Reddy’s bulletproof Toyota Fortuner seized in YSRCP supporter’s death case

In a dramatic turn of events, former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy’s high-security bulletproof Toyota Fortuner was seized by the police on June 24, 2025, following the tragic death of a YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) supporter. The incident has not only stirred political tensions in the state but has also sparked legal scrutiny of the former CM’s movements and the protocol followed during his visit.

The Incident: What Happened in Palnadu?

On June 18, Jagan Reddy was on a condolence visit to Rentapalla village in Palnadu district. The visit was part of his statewide tour to meet families of party workers who had reportedly faced hardships or lost lives due to political retribution during the recent assembly elections. The outreach campaign drew large crowds of loyal supporters, with hundreds of party workers flocking to see their leader.

Amid this emotional environment, chaos unfolded near Etukuru village. C. Singayya, also identified as Cheeli Singaiah—a devout YSRCP supporter—was reportedly crushed under the wheels of Reddy’s convoy. Initially, authorities downplayed the involvement of the CM’s vehicle. However, further investigation, including forensic analysis and eyewitness accounts, confirmed that the bulletproof SUV, a white Toyota Fortuner bearing the registration number AP 40 DH 2349, had indeed run over the victim.

Police Seize Vehicle, File Criminal Case

Following public outcry and mounting evidence, the Nallapadu police station in Guntur district formally seized the bulletproof SUV on June 24. The vehicle, specially modified for high-security operations, has been taken into custody for further forensic examination.

A case has been filed under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), and Jagan Mohan Reddy has been named as “Accused No. 2” in the case. The driver and security personnel accompanying the vehicle are also under investigation.

Police sources confirmed that the seizure followed careful scrutiny of CCTV footage, statements from bystanders, and technical reports. The Guntur police emphasized that no political pressure would interfere with the investigation.

Security Protocol Lapses Spark Debate

The incident has sparked a heated political debate in Andhra Pradesh. YSRCP leaders have accused the current government, led by the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), of denying Reddy adequate security cover during his tours. According to them, Jagan Reddy was not provided with a pilot vehicle or a rope party (a human cordon formed to manage crowds), which is standard protocol for leaders with Z+ security clearance.

YSRCP spokespersons argue that the absence of these basic security measures created a chaotic environment, making crowd control nearly impossible and ultimately leading to the tragedy.

On the other hand, TDP leaders have countered these allegations, accusing Reddy of violating police permissions by bringing a larger-than-approved convoy. They argue that the former CM flouted public safety norms and must be held accountable for the lack of control over his own security apparatus.

Political Fallout and Public Sentiment

The incident comes at a critical time for the YSRCP, which recently lost power in the 2024 state elections. Jagan Reddy’s outreach tours are seen as an effort to consolidate grassroots support and rebuild public trust. However, the tragic death of a party loyalist during such a campaign casts a shadow over the party’s strategy.

Public sentiment has been mixed. While many of Reddy’s supporters continue to view him as a victim of political vendetta, critics argue that the loss of life is an outcome of negligence and poor planning. Human rights organizations have also raised concerns about the safety protocols during mass political rallies.

Legal and Political Implications

Legal experts suggest that while naming Reddy as an accused in the FIR indicates a serious development, the actual degree of his criminal liability will depend on whether it can be proven that he instructed or permitted the convoy to move unsafely. “This could fall under culpable homicide not amounting to murder, depending on the evidence and intent established,” said a retired High Court judge.

From a political standpoint, the case adds to the mounting challenges faced by the YSRCP in a post-election landscape. It also raises questions about how political leaders handle public engagements and the responsibility they bear for the actions of their entourages.

Conclusion: A Test of Accountability

The seizure of Jagan Reddy’s bulletproof Toyota Fortuner marks a rare moment in Indian politics where a former Chief Minister’s oOn June 18, 2025, former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy visited Rentapalla village in Palnadu. The visit was part of his statewide condolence tour for party workers and their families. A large number of YSRCP supporters gathered to see him.

During the visit, tragedy struck near Etukuru village. A supporter named Cheeli Singaiah was run over by a vehicle in Reddy’s convoy. Witnesses say the crowd was dense and disorganized. In the chaos, the bulletproof Toyota Fortuner hit Singaiah. He died on the spot.

Vehicle Seized, Case Filed

On June 24, the Nallapadu police seized Reddy’s bulletproof SUV. They confirmed through CCTV footage and witness reports that the vehicle hit the victim. The white Toyota Fortuner (plate number AP 40 DH 2349) was part of the former CM’s convoy.

The police registered a case and named Reddy as Accused No. 2. The vehicle’s driver and security staff also face charges. Officers say they will conduct a detailed investigation without any political bias.

Security Lapses Trigger Blame Game

YSRCP leaders blame the state government for the incident. They say police denied Reddy the standard security protocol. There was no pilot vehicle or rope party to manage the crowd, they claim.

Party officials believe this lack of security allowed the crowd to get too close. As a result, it became difficult to control the convoy’s movement.

On the other hand, leaders from the ruling Telugu Desam Party accuse Reddy of ignoring police limits. They say he used too many vehicles and created a security risk. According to them, Reddy should have followed guidelines for public safety.

Legal Questions and Political Impact

Legal experts believe the case may fall under “culpable homicide not amounting to murder.” However, this will depend on evidence showing if there was any negligence or intent. The court will look at Reddy’s role and his instructions to the convoy.

Politically, the incident has shaken the YSRCP. The party recently lost power in the 2024 elections. Reddy’s condolence tours aim to rebuild public trust. But this tragic death has cast a shadow on his efforts.

Some citizens express sympathy, while others ask tough questions. Was this a tragic accident or a case of poor planning? The debate continues across Andhra Pradesh.

A Leader’s Convoy Under Scrutiny

The seizure of Reddy’s bulletproof SUV is rare in Indian politics. It’s unusual for law enforcement to name a former Chief Minister in such a case. But this move shows a growing call for accountability, even among top leaders.

The public will watch how the police and courts handle the matter. Many hope that justice, not politics, will guide the process.

Conclusion: A Call for Safer Political Campaigning

This case highlights the dangers of political gatherings without proper safety planning. Leaders have a responsibility to ensure public events are secure and orderly. One mistake can cost a life.

The death of Singaiah has brought grief to his family and questions for political leaders. As the investigation unfolds, the focus must stay on truth and justice—not blame games.fficial vehicle is impounded as part of a criminal investigation. Whether the case leads to criminal charges or fizzles out amid political maneuvering remains to be seen.

At its heart, the tragedy is a sobering reminder of the fine line between political fervor and public safety. As the investigation progresses, all eyes remain on how the state police and judiciary handle this politically sensitive case—with the hope that justice, and not politics, will prevail.