Jagan chopper issue: Pilot, co-pilot appear before police

IANS April 16, 2025 266 views

A controversial helicopter incident involving YSR Congress leader Jagan Mohan Reddy has escalated into a significant police investigation. The pilots of the private Karnataka-based helicopter were summoned to explain the circumstances surrounding the alleged windshield damage during Jagan's visit to Sri Sathya Sai district. YSRCP leaders have strongly criticized the state government's security arrangements, claiming a deliberate attempt to compromise the former chief minister's safety. The incident highlights growing political tensions and potential security vulnerabilities for high-profile political figures.

"Security was completely compromised" - YSRCP Party Source
Amaravati, April 16: The pilot and co-pilot of a helicopter that was allegedly damaged during former Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy's visit to Sri Sathya Sai district last week appeared before police on Wednesday.

Key Points

1

Helicopter windshield allegedly damaged during Jagan's village visit

2

Police summon pilot and co-pilot for detailed questioning

3

Incident forced former CM to return by road

4

Security lapses highlighted by YSRCP

In response to the notices served by the police, Pilot Anil Kumar and co-pilot S. Jain appeared before the Deputy Superintendent of Police and Circle Inspector at C. K. Palli police station.

Elaborate security arrangements were made around the police station during their questioning.

YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) president Jagan Mohan Reddy had reached Papireddypalli village by helicopter on April 8 to console the family of a leader, allegedly murdered by the cadres of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP).

The YSRCP workers broke through the barricades at the helipad to reach close to the helicopter, and in the commotion, the chopper's windshield was reportedly damaged.

The incident forced Jagan Mohan Reddy to return to Bengaluru by road.

The YSRCP alleged that there was a security lapse during the former chief minister's visit. It slammed the TDP-led coalition government for the "poor" security arrangements. It said Jagan had to return by road as the helicopter was unsafe after the damage to its windshield.

YSRC leaders have condemned the "negligence" of the state government in not ensuring adequate police presence at the helipad, though the former chief minister is a Z plus category protectee.

The police took up an investigation into the allegations and, as part of this, summoned both pilot and co-pilot for questioning. They were asked to explain how they flew back if the helicopter was risky for Jagan.

The pilot and co-pilot had also not informed police about the windshield damage.

The helicopter belongs to a private company based in Karnataka. The police had doubts about the claim that the helicopter's windshield was damaged.

Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
This whole situation seems fishy. If the chopper was really damaged, why didn't the pilots report it immediately? Safety should always come first! 🚁
P
Priya M.
The security lapse is concerning but I'm glad no one was hurt. Politicians need better protection protocols, especially in volatile situations like this.
S
Suresh B.
Respectfully, I think both sides are playing politics here. The YSRCP workers broke barricades - that's not acceptable behavior regardless of the situation.
A
Ananya R.
The pilots must have been under tremendous pressure. Imagine having to decide whether to fly a VIP with potential damage to the aircraft. Tough situation all around.
K
Karthik N.
Helicopter windshields don't just break from crowd pressure. There's more to this story than what's being reported. Hope the investigation reveals the truth!
M
Meena S.
The real issue here is the political violence that led to this visit in the first place. When will we learn to resolve differences peacefully? 😔

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Tags:
Jagan Mohan Reddy Andhra Pradesh Helicopter Incident Police Investigation Political Security