Sarpavaram CI Ravikumar has been removed from the investigation into the death of driver Veedhi Subrahmanyam, with Tuni Rural CI Chennakeshava Rao now handling the case. This development follows allegations that Ravikumar maintained close ties with Kakinada MLC Anantha Babu, who is currently absconding, and may have leaked sensitive case information to him. Police have launched a manhunt for Anantha Babu, a leader within the YSRCP party, who is reportedly in hiding.
The Subrahmanyam case, initially registered as a suspicious death three days after his demise in 2022, has undergone significant shifts. An autopsy revealed 31 external and 3 internal injuries, casting doubt on the initial claim of a road accident. MLC Anantha Babu, a former employer of Subrahmanyam, allegedly confessed to an altercation that escalated, resulting in Subrahmanyam’s death. He is also accused of inflicting further injuries on the body to stage it as an accident death.
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Reopened Investigation and Key Accusations
The case has seen a renewed push for investigation, with a Special Court for SC/ST cases in Rajamahendravaram granting permission for further inquiry. A supplementary chargesheet was directed to be filed within 90 days. The Andhra Pradesh High Court has also refused to halt the lower court's order for reinvestigation.
Recent filings in February 2026 named YSRCP MLC Anantha Babu and his wife, Anantha Lakshmi Durga (Accused No 2), as key accused. This was based on forensic, CCTV, and digital evidence gathered by the Special Investigation Team (SIT). The SIT's supplementary charge sheet places Babu at the center of charges including murder, criminal conspiracy, and destruction of evidence. Anantha Lakshmi Durga has reportedly moved the High Court seeking anticipatory bail.
Legal Battles and Shifting Authorities
Anantha Babu, who was previously arrested, is currently out on bail. Subrahmanyam had worked as a driver for Babu for approximately five years before quitting the position about four months before his death. The family of Subrahmanyam, along with Dalit rights organizations, have been advocating for justice. The case gained momentum following a change in government, with the new administration reportedly pushing for a swifter legal process. An advocate has been appointed as a special counsel in the case, renewing hope for Subrahmanyam’s family and Dalit rights groups.
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The initial investigation by Sarpavaram police was reportedly delayed in submitting evidence within the stipulated 90 days, which led to default bail being granted to the accused at one point. The former Superintendent of Police had previously confirmed Babu's confession. The Andhra government has also appointed a special counsel to pursue the case. The appointment of Kakinada DSP Manish Devraj Patil as a new investigating officer was also ordered, with instructions to submit a report to the Director General of Police within two months.
