The recent hit-and-run case in Palasa, Srikakulam district, has landed YSR Congress Party leader and former minister Seediri Appala Raju in trouble, as police have intensified their investigation into allegations that he attempted to tamper with evidence to protect his son, Aarav Varma.
According to sources, investigators have reportedly gathered evidence suggesting that attempts were made to manipulate the case after the accident.
Aarav Varma is alleged to have been riding the motorcycle negligently, resulting in the death of a person.
Police have already arrested Aarav Varma and remanded him to judicial custody.
Siddharth Tyadi, a close associate of the former minister and the second accused in the case, has also been sent to jail.
Appala Raju has been named as Accused No. 3. Police have registered cases against him under Sections 61(2), 238, 240, 242, 249 and 49 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Sources said police are closely monitoring his movements, amid growing speculation in Palasa that he could be arrested at any time.
The former minister has reportedly begun consulting legal experts regarding anticipatory bail and other legal remedies in view of a possible arrest.
Meanwhile, Appala Raju’s wife reportedly visited the district jail along with a lawyer to meet their son, Aarav Varma.
Police are also investigating the circumstances under which Aarav obtained his learner’s driving licence just two days before the accident.
Appala Raju has so far not made any public statement regarding the accident or the allegations against him.
