Murder Conspiracy Video Targeting MLA Kotamreddy Sparks Row in Nellore

Tirupati: A video clip circulating on social media has created tension in Nellore on Friday, as it purportedly shows a gang plotting to murder Nellore Rural MLA Kotamreddy Sridhar Reddy.

The footage includes references to money being offered for the killing, sending shockwaves through political circles.

The authenticity of the video is yet to be established, and the time of its recording remains unclear. Police, however, suspect it might have been filmed a few months before the 2024 assembly elections, when Sridhar Reddy quit the YSR Congress and joined the Telugu Desam.

The men in the clip have been identified by sources as rowdy-sheeters Jagadeesh, Vineeth, Mahesh and Jakeer. They appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. A person, whose face is not visible, is heard stating that a large sum was being offered to eliminate the legislator.

Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, Nellore SP G Krishnakanth said the video was under examination and a probe has been initiated. “We are gathering details. Information will be shared soon. If the MLA seeks security, we will provide it,” he said.

Sources said the men seen in the video were associated with rowdy-sheeter Srikanth and Nidigunta Aruna, both accused in multiple cases. Police suspect the plan may have been passed on by Srikanth through Aruna, who is now under watch. Investigators are also working to determine who recorded the clip and whether Srikanth and Aruna were directly involved.

Sridhar Reddy said he was shocked. Calling it a criminal conspiracy by the YSRC, he alleged that the police had the footage for five days but they neither registered a case nor informed him. “If no action is taken by tomorrow, I will lodge a complaint seeking an inquiry,” he said.

Sarvepalli MLA Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy said the conspiracies and activities of rowdy-sheeters during the YSRC term were coming to light. He recalled that when MLA Kotamreddy decided to quit YSRC, a plan was hatched to murder him, showing the extent of rowdyism in the district.

He said such conspiracies had stained Nellore’s peaceful image and urged the police to dismantle rowdy gangs and act firmly against criminals.