Anantapur MLA’s Gunman Suspended, Case Booked Over Exhibition Row
Case booked after organiser alleges extortion bid and disturbance at venue
Anantapur: Anantapur Urban MLA Daggubati Prasad’s gunman, Sheiksha, was suspended and a criminal case registered against him on Tuesday for allegedly attacking and creating a disturbance along with the MLA’s close aides at an exhibition venue in Anantapur.
Superintendent of Police P. Jagadish issued suspension orders against the gunman and directed him not to leave Anantapur headquarters pending further inquiry.
According to police, the exhibition organiser Fakruddin lodged a complaint alleging that MLA’s close aide Gangaram, along with Sheiksha and others, created a ruckus at the exhibition on Monday night and demanded Rs 10 lakh as “mamool” for allowing the event to continue.
Sources said followers of the MLA allegedly barged into the exhibition grounds, argued with organisers and disrupted the programme, causing panic among visitors. The police rushed to the spot and dispersed the crowd.
Based on the complaint and CCTV footage that showed Sheiksha at the venue along with Gangaram and others, the SP ordered the gunman’s suspension and initiated criminal proceedings.
Organisers alleged that the accused abused and assaulted staff and issued threats, forcing visitors to flee the venue. They claimed the incident led to the temporary disruption of the exhibition.
However, MLA’s aides denied the allegations, claiming that Gangaram had gone to the exhibition to bring back his family members and was abused by the staff. They alleged that the incident was the result of a political conspiracy by rival groups.
Police said further investigation was underway.
