ASP Appointed To Probe Deaths Of Dalit Youths
The police appealed to Dalit organisations, including those led by Mandakrishna Madiga, to call off their proposed protest in view of the ongoing inquiry
Maidakur DSP S. Rajendra Prasad on Sunday said an IPS officer had been appointed to inquire into the deaths of two Dalit youths, who were found dead in a canal at Brahmamgari Matham on February 5, 2026.
Addressing a press conference in Maidakur, the DSP said the incident had sparked suspicion among Dalit organisations, which alleged foul play and claimed justice had not been delivered. The organisations had also proposed a 'Chalo Kadapa' protest to press their demands.
Responding to their demand for a higher-level inquiry, Kadapa SP Nachiket Vishwanath appointed Proddatur ASP Vibhu Krishna as the inquiry officer.
The DSP said Dalit leaders had also raised doubts over whether the FIR had been registered in accordance with legal procedures. He added that a video recorded by a witness who accompanied the deceased had been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) for analysis.
Meanwhile, the police appealed to Dalit organisations, including those led by Mandakrishna Madiga, to call off their proposed protest in view of the ongoing inquiry.
2 engg students drown at beach
Two first-year engineering students drowned at Bhavanapadu beach in Srikakulam district on Sunday after being caught in strong sea currents.
The victims were identified as S. Yeshwanth, 18, and G. Agastima, 18. According to reports, they were part of a group of students from a private engineering college who had visited the beach. While bathing, the two were swept into deep waters by strong currents and drowned.
Agriculture minister K. Atchennaidu expressed shock over the incident and conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families. Describing the tragedy as heartbreaking, he directed officials to extend all possible assistance and ensure necessary support to the families of the deceased.
32 fall ill after eating roadside snacks
Thirty-two persons were admitted to the Primary Health Centre at Dugguduru in Kajuluru mandal after they allegedly suffered food poisoning from eating snacks purchased from roadside vendors.
Officials said the victims consumed the snacks on Friday evening and began reporting to the hospital from Saturday. More patients were admitted on Sunday, while some were discharged after treatment.
Officials said around 60 others were reportedly undergoing treatment at private hospitals.
Medical and health department officials rushed to the village and treated the affected persons. Kakinada district medical and health officer D.N. Naick visited the hospital and reviewed the condition of the patients.
He said the patients were recovering.
