Elderly Man Claims Convoy Tragedy

Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, June 18, 2025:

Police confirmed that a 55 year old supporter was tragically killed when he was struck by an unauthorized vehicle in the convoy of former Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy. 

The incident continued unabated as the man lay injured. The victim, Cheeli Singaiah of Vengalayapalem near Guntur, slipped while trying to give Jagan flowers while he was strolling beside the convoy on the Lalpuram highway close to Etukuru. He was run over by a car that was a part of the unofficial rally entourage. Guntur range DIG Sarvashrestha Tripathi confirmed the collision, saying, "He was hit by a car with registration AP 26 CE 0001 after he fell while attempting to shower flowers."

According to eyewitnesses, supporters and convoy vehicles failed to halt to offer assistance following the accident. Singaiah was taken by the local villagers to Guntur Government Hospital, where he was declared deceased. The driver and other parties involved will be identified as part of an ongoing police investigation, and appropriate legal action will be taken. 

To show support for the family of a deceased party worker, Jagan traveled from Tadepalli to Sattenapalli in what was supposed to be a condolence rally. However, because authorities only allowed three vehicles and a maximum of 100 people, the event devolved. Nevertheless, about 30 to 35 vehicles joined the convoy in an unofficial manner.

Public safety concerns were raised by the uncontrolled movement and traffic congestion. According to Tripathi, the rally's confusion, danger, and subsequent accident were all directly caused by the overabundance of cars. Two people died as a result of the event, including 32 year old Papasani Jayavardhan Reddy, who collapsed during the rally in Sattenapalli and was later pronounced dead at the local hospital. 

The convoy logistics have drawn harsh criticism from opposition parties, including the TDP. Jagan was accused by TDP leaders of planning a careless event that put political spectacle ahead of public safety. "Singayya's death reflects the party's arrogance... the convoy showed no humanity in leaving behind an injured man," said Energy Minister Gottipati Ravi Kumar.

Investigations by the police are still ongoing. As part of a larger investigation, officials have started site surveys, gathered CCTV footage, and are questioning convoy organizers. During public processions, authorities emphasize how crucial it is to strictly adhere to the allowed vehicle limits and crowd control regulations. 

New demands for accountability and stricter rules during political gatherings have been sparked by the tragedy. Questions are being raised concerning the accountability of political leaders and the necessity of stricter oversight to guarantee public safety in packed rallies as Andhra Pradesh struggles with the loss of two lives in quick succession.