Statue of former Chief Minister vandalised in Nandyal, suspect held

The statue of former Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy was reportedly vandalised in broad daylight at Srinivasa Nagar Main Circle in Nandyal town on Sunday.

According to the police, Ch. Jambulaiah, a resident of Chakalipeta in Nandyal town, has been identified as the person responsible for the act. He allegedly climbed onto the statue platform and damaged the statue using a stone. The head of the statue was allegedly severed and it was displayed to the onlookers by the accused, creating a stir among the onlookers.

Police rushed to the spot and took Jambulaiah into custody. They suspect that the accused is mentally disturbed and addicted to alcohol.

Leaders and activists of the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) gathered at the site and staged a dharna demanding stringent action against those responsible. They alleged that supporters of the ruling party were behind the vandalism.

The TDP leaders refuted the allegations, saying that it was an act of an individual with no political connection. The person was taken into custody and an investigation is under way.