UAPA – Gannavaram Police Seek Custody of YouTuber Prashna Ravan
UAPA – Gannavaram police have outlined several allegations against YouTuber Bachalakuri Joseph, widely known as Prashna Ravan, in a remand report filed before the 12th Additional Junior Civil Judge Court in Gannavaram. The report was submitted after his arrest in a case involving allegations of inflammatory speeches, online content and statements said to be against national interests.
Police cite alleged links to extremist messaging
According to the remand report, investigators believe Ravan used speeches and social media videos to influence students, unemployed youth and other young people towards banned Maoist organisations. Police alleged that his content promoted extremist thinking and encouraged hostility against the State.
The report stated that several criminal cases had earlier been registered against him in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Despite those cases, police said he continued to run the Prashna social media channel and publish videos that allegedly sought to mobilise people against the government.
Allegations over speeches and social media posts
Police also referred to a speech allegedly delivered by Ravan at a Dalit Christian gathering in Eluru. They claimed that some of his remarks were provocative and could create tension among religious and social groups.
Investigators further alleged that he posted abusive and derogatory comments about constitutional authorities through social media platforms. According to the report, the content was intended to deepen social divisions and generate resentment between communities.
The remand report also mentioned that officers had recovered material related to Maoist ideology from his mobile phone. Police claimed that Ravan had praised Maoist leader Hidma in certain content and used such references to spread extremist ideas that could affect public peace.
Investigation continues into possible support network
Authorities have also accused the YouTuber of making remarks that offended religious beliefs and deities. The police report said investigators are examining whether any other individuals assisted, encouraged or coordinated with him in the alleged activities.
Police further stated that Ravan was not cooperating with the investigation. Officials have sought additional time to question him and examine electronic evidence, including content linked to his social media accounts and mobile device.
Case registered under BNS and UAPA provisions
The case was registered by Gannavaram police following a complaint from Jana Sena Party leader Garikapati Siva Sankar. The complaint alleged that Ravan made statements supporting Maoist ideology and encouraged armed resistance against the government.
Police have invoked multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including Section 152, which deals with acts alleged to endanger the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India. Provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, commonly known as UAPA, have also been included in the case.
Court remands YouTuber to judicial custody
Ravan was reportedly arrested around midnight on Saturday and produced before the court on Sunday evening. The court remanded him to judicial custody until July 18.
On Monday, Gannavaram police moved a petition before the local court seeking 10 days of custodial interrogation. The request is expected to be considered as investigators continue to examine the allegations and gather further evidence.
Separate complaint filed in Kanchikacherla
In another development, a separate complaint has reportedly been filed against Prashna Ravan at Kanchikacherla police station. The complaint was lodged by a Jana Sena Party leader and concerns alleged inappropriate remarks against Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.
The allegations in both matters remain under investigation, and further legal proceedings are expected as police continue their inquiry.