ANDHRA PRADESH – Serious allegations of sexual exploitation and threats have surfaced against Jana Sena Party MLA Arava Sreedhar, representing Railway Koduru. The claims, which involve sustained abuse over approximately a year and a half, have prompted the Jana Sena Party to form a three-member committee to investigate the matter. The MLA has denied the accusations.
The accuser, identified as a government employee named Veena, publicly detailed her allegations via social media videos, asserting she was sexually exploited, threatened, and coerced into undergoing multiple abortions. She also claims Sreedhar pressured her to divorce her husband, even contacting the husband directly and issuing warnings. The woman has stated her intention to pursue a legal battle and has sought legal protection. She also alleged financial exploitation, claiming to have lent the MLA ₹7 lakh.
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Party Responds, Opposition Criticizes
In response to the escalating controversy, the Jana Sena Party announced the formation of an internal inquiry committee. The party has directed Arava Sreedhar to step away from party activities pending the conclusion of this probe. Meanwhile, the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) has sharply criticized the Jana Sena and its leadership, questioning the silence of key government figures.
"The videos have shocked the state, exposing how coalition leaders were allegedly 'playing with women’s lives', while police remained 'silent and victims faced false cases.'"– Varudu Kalyani, YSRCP MLC and women’s wing state president.
Kalyani has called for the immediate arrest of Sreedhar, his suspension from the party, and his disqualification as a Member of Legislative Assembly. She further questioned the commitment to women's safety by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan (also the leader of Jana Sena), and Home Minister Anitha, suggesting their pronouncements were mere rhetoric.
Police Involvement and Continued Inquiry
While the accuser has appeared before the media with her lawyer, indicating readiness for a legal fight, reports suggest a case was initially registered against the woman on January 7 by Railway Koduru police. However, the police have also stated that an inquiry would continue based on statements and evidence submitted by the woman in relation to her allegations.
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"Police said the inquiry would continue based on the statements and evidence submitted."
The controversy gained significant traction after the woman posted a video detailing her accusations. She claims the assaults occurred after she was taken to an isolated location. She further alleged that Sreedhar promised to marry her. The woman has indicated she has not yet filed a formal police complaint but is committed to a legal fight for justice. She also expressed concern for her child, alleging threats involving her minor son.
