Vandalism – Statue Damage Incident Sparks Unrest in Nandyal
Vandalism – Residents of Nandyal witnessed heightened tension on Sunday after a statue of former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy was damaged at Srinivasa Nagar Main Circle. The incident quickly drew attention from political groups and local citizens, leading to protests and a series of allegations exchanged among rival parties.
Accused Taken Into Custody Within Minutes
According to police officials, the incident took place at around 6:30 a.m. Investigators said a man identified as Ch Jambulaiah, 41, from Baitipeta in Nandyal, allegedly climbed onto the pedestal where the statue was installed and struck it repeatedly with a stone. The impact reportedly caused severe damage, including the separation of the statue’s head section.
The incident created concern among people in the area, with several residents and commuters gathering at the location soon after the damage was discovered. Authorities were alerted immediately, prompting a rapid response from local law enforcement.
Police Respond Following Emergency Call
Nandyal I-Town Circle Inspector Sudhakar Reddy stated that police received information through the emergency Dial-100 service at approximately 6:45 a.m. Officers from the Nandyal I-Town Police Station reached the site without delay and located the suspect shortly afterward.
Police said the accused was apprehended by around 6:50 a.m. The detached portion of the statue was also recovered during the operation. A criminal case has been registered, and investigators are continuing to examine all aspects of the incident.
Mental Health History Revealed During Inquiry
In a statement released by police, officials said initial inquiries suggested that Jambulaiah had been dealing with mental health issues for nearly 15 years. He had reportedly received treatment at multiple psychiatric care facilities during this period.
Authorities indicated that the suspect’s condition had been a subject of concern for family members for several years. Investigators are reviewing medical and personal background information as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Family Tragedy May Have Affected Condition
Police further disclosed that the man’s mental health was believed to have worsened following a personal tragedy involving his younger daughter, Swathi, aged 20. Officials said she reportedly died by suicide on March 6, 2026, an event that may have significantly impacted his emotional and psychological well-being.
While the investigation remains active, officers said available information points toward personal mental health struggles rather than any organized motive behind the act.
No Political Motive Found So Far
Law enforcement authorities emphasized that preliminary findings do not indicate any political conspiracy or planned campaign linked to the vandalism. Investigators have described the incident as an isolated act allegedly carried out by an individual experiencing serious mental distress.
Police also noted that early information suggests the accused was currently associated with the YSR Congress Party. However, officials clarified that this affiliation has not led investigators to establish any political connection to the incident.
The case remains under investigation, and authorities have appealed to the public to avoid speculation while the inquiry continues. Security around the area has been strengthened to maintain peace and prevent any further disturbances.