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YSRCP Leader Hariprasad Reddy Caught with Panchayat President's Wife in Thar, Thrashed Over Affair (WATCH)

Divya Danu — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 17:33:16 +0530

An alleged assault on YSRCP leader Hariprasad Reddy near Tirupati has triggered controversy after reports claimed he was caught in a vehicle with a sarpanch's wife. Videos of the clash, showing Reddy being beaten and his car damaged.

The attack on YSRCP division working president Hariprasad Reddy has triggered sharp debate and political uproar in Chittoor. The incident comes at a sensitive time for the party, as Railway Kodur MLA Arava Sridhar is already facing controversy over an alleged affair, adding to the growing pressure and internal challenges within the YSR Congress Party.

YSRCP Leader Hariprasad Reddy was beaten by a Man after he caught Hariprasad Reddy in a Thar with his wife near Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh. The Man who attacked Hariprasad Reddy is allegedly a YSRCP Sarpanch of a village near Tirupati and alleged that Hariprasad is having an… pic.twitter.com/l5dOQxmVoq

— NCMIndia Council For Men Affairs (@NCMIndiaa) January 31, 2026

The incident reportedly happened while he was in a car with a woman in Upparapalli near Tirupati.

Locals say the woman's husband stopped Hariprasad Reddy's car and assaulted him. It's said the woman in the car was also attacked. Allegations claim both were dragged out and beaten.

Local sources claim the attacker is the husband of the woman, a YSRCP Sarpanch from a village near Tirupati. The attack is suspected to be due to an alleged affair. However, these claims are not officially confirmed.

Reports also suggest that after the attack, Reddy's car was vandalized, and the husband took the woman with him.

Extra-Marital affair Kalesh (YSRCP leader Hariprasad Reddy thrashed by a YSRCP Sarpanch near Tirupati after being caught in a Thar with the Sarpanch’s wife. Alleged affair. God bless these politicians. )pic.twitter.com/nxRTtdYgt7

— Ghar Ke Kalesh (@gharkekalesh) February 1, 2026

Videos of the incident are going viral on social media, especially on X, making the case more sensational. Netizens slammed the incident with comments such as:

don't address him as "leader". There needs to be some very good qualities which needs to be shown. This gutter fellow is not even eligible.

— Ravi Shankar (@truly_curious) January 31, 2026

Well Deserved Kutai

— BeingYash (@bEiNgSaNn) January 31, 2026

His name is Hariprasad, but his karma are devilish, and he is a leader. When will the lust of these lust-hungry leaders be satisfied? Approximately 90 percent of leaders are involved in such despicable acts. Some women in politics want to make quick money and achieve success in…

— jagatram thapliyal (@knisamrat) January 31, 2026

While many called out Hariprasad Reddy and the alleged indecent incident, several slammed the woman for defending the politician.

Cyclone Montha: IMD Sounds Red Alert, Who is at Risk as Cyclonic Storm Nears Andhra?

Asianet Newsable English — Sun, 26 Oct 2025 19:45:11 +0530

The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for several districts of Andhra Pradesh in view of the severe cyclonic storm expected to form in the Bay of Bengal. The storm is likely to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall in isolated areas. A severe cyclonic storm named "Montha" with a maximum sustained wind speed of 90-100 kmph with gusts up to 110 kmph is likely to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam around Kakinada on the evening/night of October 28 if it continues its north-northwestward movement.

The central and south Bay of Bengal, as well as the Andaman Sea, are characterised by scattered to broken low and medium clouds with embedded intense to very intense convection. Scattered low and medium clouds with isolated weak to moderate convection persist over the north Bay of Bengal.

IMD Scientist on the severe cyclonic storm

The system is packing maximum sustained winds of 25 knots, gusting to 35 knots, with an estimated central pressure of 1002 hPa.IMD Scientist S Jagannath Kumar told ANI, "A severe cyclonic storm is expected to form in the Bay of Bengal and make landfall... The storm is likely to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall, with extremely heavy rainfall in isolated areas, and strong winds... A storm surge of up to 1 meter above the astronomical tide is also expected... Red alerts have been issued for several districts, including Kakinada, Konaseema, West Godavari, Krishna, Bapatla, Prakasam, and Nellore.

He further added that fishermen have been advised "not to venture into the sea for the next five days", and district authorities have been warned to prepare for the severe weather conditions..."

India Meteorological Department (IMD) on social media said on Sunday that, "A deep depression in the southeast Bay of Bengal and the likelihood of it turning into a cyclonic storm in the southwest and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal by October 27".

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed)

'Nobody Responsible, It Was an Act of God': Temple Founder on Andhra Stampede Tragedy

Divya Danu — Sun, 02 Nov 2025 16:50:49 +0530

On Saturday morning a deadly crowd crush occurred at the Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Kasibugga under Palasa mandal of Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh. The mishap claimed the lives of nine devotees including eight women and a 13-year-old boy and injured more than 25 people. The temple was built by Hari Mukund Panda, originally from Odisha. After the incident he told media that the disaster was an “act of God” and that 'nobody is responsible'.

He explained that he did not expect such a large turnout. He added that the shrine consistently saw only around 3,000-4,000 devotees daily, and the huge surge that day caught everyone by surprise.

What caused the stampede

According to police and investigation reports:

The temple’s stairway leading to the sanctum has about 20 steps. A railing along the staircase collapsed which caused a fall, then panic and a surge in the crowd.
Only one gate was serving both as entry and exit, compounding the crowd flow issues.
Organisers had not informed the police or district administration about the likely large crowd for the Karthika Ekadashi event.

The crowd was reportedly far larger than usual, estimates are 'over 20,000'. The temple capacity and infrastructure were unable to handle the surge.

Legal and official response

A case has been registered under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for culpable homicide and negligence. The temple founder and some staff are under investigation.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep sorrow over the deaths and said that if authorities had been informed in advance, crowd management could have been in place.

The prime minister also conveyed his condolences and announced ex-gratia payments for the victims’ families and injured.

Why the founder's comment raises concern

Panda's assertion that 'nobody is responsible' and the incident was just an 'act of God' raises important questions:

The narrative may hamper the ability to hold responsible parties accountable for crowd safety.
It suggests little acknowledgment of structural faults, poor planning or failure to seek official clearance.
It might delay deeper examination of safety lapses at religious venues, especially those not under official regulatory frameworks.

Given the legal investigation now underway, official findings may contrast with the founder’s statement.

What this means for future temple safety

The incident underscores the need for:

Proper crowd-management plans for festivals and large gatherings.
Compliance with building safety codes (railings, staircases, exits).
Advance coordination with police, district administration and emergency services.
Clear registration and oversight of privately run religious venues to ensure safety standards.

The horrifying stampede at the Kasibugga temple left nine dead and many injured. Its builder, Hari Mukund Panda, called the tragedy an 'act of God' and claimed no one was to be blamed. While his words reflect shock and sorrow, the investigation now turns to questions of planning, safety and accountability. As religious gatherings grow in size, ensuring safe access must no longer be left to chance.

(With ANI inputs)

Argument Over TV Sound Ends in Tragedy: Newly Married Andhra Woman Stabs Husband to Death

Divya Danu — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 19:53:28 +0530

A 27-year-old man was allegedly stabbed to death by his wife after an argument over television volume at their home in Mangalagiri, Andhra Pradesh. The couple lived in a TIDCO Housing Colony. Ahmed was rushed to hospital but was declared dead.

A domestic dispute reportedly turned fatal in Andhra Pradesh's Mangalagiri after a woman allegedly stabbed her husband following an argument over television volume. The incident took place at a house belonging to the Andhra Pradesh Township and Infrastructure Development Corporation (TIDCO) Housing Colony, NDTV report quoted police.

The deceased has been identified as 27-year-old Shaik Ahmed, a mechanic who repaired air-conditioners. He had married Kranti about eight months ago. According to reports, the couple had been living together at the government-constructed housing complex for some time.

Police said the dispute began when Ahmed asked Kranti to lower the volume of the television, as the loud sound was causing inconvenience to him. The issue soon led to a heated argument between the couple inside their home.

During the quarrel, Ahmed allegedly manhandled Kranti. As the argument continued, she reportedly picked up a kitchen knife used for cutting vegetables and attacked him in a fit of rage. Ahmed suffered severe stab injuries and collapsed inside the house.

On hearing his cries for help, local residents rushed to the house and immediately shifted Ahmed to a private hospital in the town. Due to the seriousness of his condition, he was later moved to the Government Hospital in Vijayawada. Doctors declared him brought dead.

Police officials confirmed that a case has been registered and the woman has been detained for questioning. Investigators are examining the exact sequence of events and the circumstances that led to the fatal assault.

Authorities said the incident falls under the jurisdiction of Guntur district police. Officers are collecting witness statements and forensic details as part of the probe. Further information is expected after preliminary findings are reviewed.

The case has drawn attention due to the tragic outcome of what began as a routine domestic disagreement. Police urged residents to seek peaceful ways to resolve conflicts and avoid violent reactions during disputes.

Viral CCTV Shows Acid Attack On LIC Agent Outside Home In Visakhapatnam, Accused On The Run

Divya Danu — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 16:05:14 +0530

A shocking acid attack on a Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) agent has come to light in Andhra Pradesh's Visakhapatnam. The incident took place on Tuesday night in Gajuwaka area and was captured on CCTV cameras. The victim, Venkata Apparao, lives in the area with his family.

A shocking acid attack on a Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) agent in Andhra Pradesh's Visakhapatnam was caught on CCTV, with an unidentified man targeting the victim outside his home in Gajuwaka on Tuesday night.The victim, identified as Venkata Apparao, lives in the… pic.twitter.com/wDvRjs8bfa

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) April 2, 2026

Also Read: Man Killed and Buried in Karnataka's Coffee Estate: Wife, Her Lover and Mother Arrested

Attacker strikes suddenly and flees

According to police and family members, the attack happened around 9:30 pm. Apparao was sitting outside his house when an unidentified man approached him on foot, NTV reported.

Without warning, the attacker threw acid at him and quickly ran away before anyone could react.

CCTV footage reveals chilling details

CCTV footage of the incident has surfaced and is now being closely examined by the police. The video shows a man walking through a narrow lane with his face covered by a cap and mask.

He is seen carrying a bottle, walking up to the victim, aiming at his face, throwing the liquid, and then fleeing the spot.

On the night of 31 March 2026, around 9:23 PM, an unidentified man threw acid on #LIC agent Venkata Prasad while he was sitting outside his house near Mallamma Temple in Akkireddipalem, Gajuwaka. The victim suffered minor injuries and was taken to hospital.1/2#Vishakapatnam pic.twitter.com/Z99h34sZzP

— Siraj Noorani (@sirajnoorani) April 1, 2026

Victim rushed to hospital

Hearing Apparao’s screams, family members and neighbours rushed to help him. He was first taken to a nearby private hospital and later shifted to another hospital in Visakhapatnam for better treatment.

Doctors said he suffered burn injuries on his face, neck, and hands. Though the injuries are serious, his condition is now stable.

Police begin investigation

Police have registered a case and launched an investigation. Teams have been formed to trace the attacker. Officials said they have collected samples from the spot and are trying to identify the chemical used in the attack.

Also Read: Gold Worth Rs 83 Lakh Smuggled Inside Body: Woman Held At Ahmedabad Airport

Motive still unclear

Investigators are looking into all possible angles, including personal disputes, business dealings, and past rivalries. Police also suspect that the attacker might be known to the victim, but said it is too early to confirm anything.

They are questioning people close to Apparao and analysing CCTV footage to find leads.

Andhra Pradesh SHOCKER! Woman Drugs, Suffocates Husband with Lover's Help; Disguises it as Heart Attack

Divya Danu — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 11:44:27 +0530

A shocking murder case has come to light in Chiluvuru village of Duggirala mandal in Andhra Pradesh, where a woman allegedly killed her husband with the help of her lover and tried to pass the crime off as a natural death. Police said the incident has stunned locals and exposed a carefully planned crime driven by an extramarital relationship.

The accused woman later claimed her husband died of chest pain, but injuries on the body and a post-mortem report revealed the truth.

Victim found dead under suspicious conditions

The deceased has been identified as Lokam Siva Nagaraju, an onion trader by profession. He was found dead at his home two days ago under suspicious circumstances.

According to Mangalagiri Rural Circle Inspector Venkatabrahmam and Duggirala Sub-Inspector Venkata Ravi, initial claims by the family suggested a natural death. However, villagers and friends of Nagaraju raised doubts due to visible injuries and the couple’s troubled relationship.

Nagaraju married Lakshmi Madhuri in 2007. The couple had two sons and lived in Chiluvuru village.

Police said Madhuri worked at a cinema theatre ticket counter in Vijayawada. During this time, she allegedly developed an extramarital relationship with Gopi, a resident of Sattenapalli.

Problems between the husband and wife began after Madhuri forced Nagaraju to shut down his onion business. She later sent him to Hyderabad, where Gopi was running a car travels business.

When Nagaraju returned to Chiluvuru and started living at home again, frequent arguments broke out and tensions increased.

How the murder was carried out

Police said that on the night of January 18, Madhuri mixed powdered sleeping pills into biryani and served it to her husband. After Nagaraju fell into a deep sleep, Gopi arrived at the house around 11.30 pm.

Investigators said Gopi sat on Nagaraju’s chest while Madhuri suffocated him using a pillow. The man died on the spot due to lack of air. After confirming the death, Gopi fled the scene.

Attempt to mislead neighbours fails

In the early hours of the morning, Madhuri informed neighbours that her husband had died due to chest pain. However, locals were suspicious, as they were aware of the couple’s regular fights and her alleged affair.

Friends of Nagaraju noticed bleeding from his ear and injuries on his body. They lodged a complaint with the police, demanding a proper investigation.

A post-mortem examination revealed that Nagaraju had broken ribs and died due to suffocation. During police questioning, Madhuri reportedly confessed to her role in the murder.

Police have registered a case against both accused. Further investigation is ongoing.

What is Arava Sridhar Case? Sexual Harassment Allegations, Police Action and Political Reactions Explained

Divya Danu — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 15:38:53 +0530

A case has been registered against Railway Koduru Jana Sena MLA Arava Sridhar after a woman accused him of sexual harassment and abuse over 18 months. She released videos, chats and an audio clip, while the MLA’s family denied the allegations.

A case has been registered against Railway Koduru Jana Sena Party (JSP) MLA Arava Sridhar after a woman government employee accused him of sexual harassment, physical abuse and sustained mental torture over nearly one-and-a-half years.

Police confirmed on Wednesday that an investigation is underway. The case was registered following a complaint by the woman, who alleged that the legislator misused his position and influence to harass and exploit her.

The developments have triggered a major political controversy in Andhra Pradesh and put the TDP-led NDA government under pressure.

According to the complaint, the woman alleged that Arava Sridhar deceived her by making false promises of marriage. She claimed that over a long period, the MLA subjected her to repeated physical abuse, harassment and improper conduct.

The woman, who works as a state government employee, came out in public with her allegations. She said she suffered in silence for nearly one-and-a-half years before deciding to seek justice.

She alleged that the MLA’s actions damaged her dignity and personal life and left her emotionally distressed.

To support her claims, the woman released intimate videos and WhatsApp chat records. These were widely shared on social media and quickly drew public attention.

Later, an audio recording, reportedly of the woman, also went viral. In the audio, she alleged that the MLA sexually exploited her for about 18 months and subjected her to continuous torture.

ఫేస్‌బుక్‌లో పరిచయమైన ఉద్యోగినితో రైల్వేకోడూరు జనసేన ఎమ్మెల్యే అరవ శ్రీధర్ రాసలీలలు..!! ప్రగ్నెంట్ చేసి అబార్షన్.. భర్తకు విడాకులు ఇవ్వాలని బెదిరింపులు.. చెప్పిన మాట వినకపోతే మూడేళ్ల కొడుకును చంపేస్తానని వార్నింగ్.. #AravaSridhar #JanasenaParty #AndhraPradesh #Rajnews pic.twitter.com/7LEGMCaCNR

— Raj News Telugu Official (@rajnewsdigital) January 27, 2026

She claimed that the legislator forced her to communicate only through the Telegram app. She alleged that he demanded nude video calls and made repeated inappropriate demands.

జనసేన ఎమ్మెల్యే అరవ శ్రీధర్‌పై మహిళ సంచలన ఆరోపణలు! #JanaSena #AravaSridhar #APPolitics #BreakingNews #PoliticalControversy #TeluguNews #ViralNews #AndhraPradesh #PublicIssue #TrendingNews #PoliticalNews #TeluguMedia #LatestNews pic.twitter.com/8PsOMhzA5P

— Jana tanthram (@janatanthram) January 27, 2026

According to her, whenever she objected or questioned the behaviour, the pressure increased.

The woman further alleged that Arava Sridhar threatened to block her request for a job transfer from Railway Koduru. She claimed that he warned her about possible department-level inquiries.

She also alleged that the MLA repeatedly reminded her that she was living alone with her young son. She said this was used to intimidate her and keep her silent.

In the audio clip, the woman further alleged that the MLA threatened her husband and pressured him to divorce her.

Allegations of forced abortions

One of the most serious allegations made by the woman is that she became pregnant five times during the relationship and was forced to terminate each pregnancy.

She claimed these abortions were not voluntary and were done under pressure. These allegations have intensified the public debate and political reactions across the state.

Family separation and alleged exploitation

The woman alleged that due to threats and pressure, her husband later took their son away. She claimed she has been living alone for the past one-and-a-half years.

She further alleged that the MLA took advantage of her isolation and continued to exploit her.

— Raj News Telugu Official (@rajnewsdigital) January 27, 2026

According to her statement, on January 7, Arava Sridhar clearly refused to marry her and asked her to “get lost”.

Letter to Chief Minister seeking justice

The woman also wrote a letter to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu. In her letter, she sought justice and requested a thorough and fair inquiry.

She urged the chief minister to ensure that the matter is investigated properly and that she is protected.

Jana Sena statement draws attention

The controversy has also brought renewed focus on a press release issued by the Jana Sena Party a few days before the allegations became public.

గంట, అరగంట అని మొరిగినపుడు,వైకామా అని కూసినపుడు,అవి వారి వ్యక్తిగత విషయాలు, పార్టీకి సంబంధము లేదు అని తెలియదా బ్రో?Tasting Your Own Medicine is Bitter Always.#FailedKutami pic.twitter.com/Gp3BOowBKK

— ravikiran molakala (@molakalaravi) January 27, 2026

ఎమ్మెల్యే అరవ శ్రీధర్ వ్యవహారంపై విచారణ కమిటీని వేసిన జనసేన పార్టీ అధిష్టానం. పార్టీ కార్యకలాపాలకు దూరంగా ఉండాలని ఎమ్మెల్యేకు ఆదేశం Janasena high command sets up An inquiry commitee into MLA #AravaSridhar issue and Ordered Sridhar to stay away from party activities. pic.twitter.com/2qe1FFzn1f

— BIG TV Breaking News (@bigtvtelugu) January 28, 2026

In the statement, the party cautioned its workers against what it described as attempts by the opposition to defame the party by raising “extra-marital” issues involving its leaders.

The statement, issued by Jana Sena chief and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, is now being widely seen as linked to the unfolding allegations against the MLA.

Arava Sridhar’s family has strongly denied all allegations. His mother, Prameela, rejected the claims and accused the woman of deliberately defaming her son.

Speaking to the media, Prameela said her son had only helped the woman and had not committed any wrongdoing.

She alleged that the woman got close to her son by using their shared caste identity as a pretext. She claimed that the woman frequently visited their house, often late at night, and harassed the family.

Prameela further alleged that the woman repeatedly called her son at odd hours, day and night. She claimed the woman later blackmailed her son by insisting on marriage.

She alleged that the woman trapped her son with what she described as “honey-laced words” and ruined his peace of mind.

According to Prameela, the family could no longer tolerate the alleged harassment and decided to approach the police.

Prameela said a complaint was lodged with the District Superintendent of Police regarding the woman’s conduct.

Based on her complaint, the Railway Koduru police registered a case against the woman on January 7.

Inspector Chandrasekhar confirmed that a case had been registered and said action would be taken according to law if the woman was found guilty.

Political reactions intensify

The issue triggered sharp political reactions, especially from the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP).

YSRCP Women’s Wing State President and MLC Varudu Kalyani strongly condemned the alleged actions of the Jana Sena MLA.

Speaking to the media at the YSRCP central office in Tadepalli, Kalyani accused the coalition government of failing to protect women.

YSRCP alleges abuse of power

Kalyani alleged that the survivor had spoken about being trapped, repeatedly raped, threatened, assaulted and mentally tortured for nearly one-and-a-half years.

She claimed the woman was forced into abortions and terrorised with threats to her child.

Referring to the circulation of videos linked to the case, Kalyani said the developments had shocked the state and exposed what she described as ruling coalition leaders “playing with women’s lives”.

Questions raised at top leadership

The YSRCP leader accused the government of police inaction and filing false cases against victims, which she said had emboldened perpetrators.

She cited several recent incidents involving ruling party leaders and claimed that no strong action had been taken so far.

Questioning the silence of Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, the Home Minister and the Speaker, Kalyani asked whether their statements on women’s safety were merely “cinema dialogues”.

Demands for arrest and action

Kalyani demanded that police register a suo motu case against Arava Sridhar. She also called for his immediate arrest, suspension from the Jana Sena Party and disqualification as an MLA.

She urged the Women’s Commission to take suo motu cognisance of the matter.

Asserting that the YSRCP would stand firmly with the survivor, Kalyani said the party would continue its fight until justice is delivered.

Koduru police confirmed that a case has been registered and that an investigation is in progress.

Officials said no conclusions have been reached yet and that all allegations and counter-allegations will be examined as per the law.

(With inputs from agencies)

As Port Traffic Grows, Vizag Adds Muscle to its Harbour Fleet With New 60-Tonne Tugboats

Anish Kumar — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 16:16:55 +0530

New Delhi: In a busy port, some of the most critical assets are also the least visible. Tugboats, operating largely out of public sight, quietly determine how efficiently large vessels enter, leave, and manoeuvre within harbour limits. It is this layer of port operations that came into focus on Monday at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

A state-owned Mini-Ratna defence public sector undertaking marked two milestones in a tug construction programme for the Visakhapatnam Port Authority, with the keel laying of the first 60-ton Bollard Pull (BP) tug and the signing of a contract for a second vessel of the same class.

The two tugs are being designed and built locally by Hindustan Shipyard Limited, continuing a long-standing working relationship between the port authority and the Visakhapatnam-based shipyard.

While port expansion is often discussed in terms of terminals, connectivity, and cargo-handling equipment, officials familiar with marine operations point out that support vessels increasingly shape day-to-day performance. As commercial ships become larger and schedules tighter, the margin for error during berthing and unberthing has narrowed.

The 60T BP tug, measuring 32.5 metres in length, has been designed for demanding harbour duties, including assisting large vessels, towing operations, and emergency response within port limits. Higher bollard pull allows a tug to exert greater force, giving pilots better control over ship movement in confined waters or during unfavourable weather.

For Visakhapatnam Port, which handles a mix of bulk cargo, containers, and industrial shipments, such capabilities are closely tied to operational safety and turnaround time. Delays at berth often have cascading effects, impacting yard operations, vessel schedules, and downstream logistics.

Visakhapatnam Port Authority on cargo volumes

Addressing the gathering, Visakhapatnam Port Authority Chairperson Dr Madhaiyaan Angamuthu said that timely execution and quality workmanship were essential to sustaining institutional trust. He noted that with cargo volumes expected to grow, ports would need to invest steadily in marine assets that support safe and efficient operations.

From the shipbuilding side, harbour craft projects also serve an important role. Unlike large naval platforms, such programmes provide continuity of work, support skilled employment, and sustain networks of ancillary suppliers and MSMEs. They also reduce dependence on imported designs in a segment that is operationally critical but often overlooked.

Hindustan Shipyard Limited Chairman and Managing Director Commodore Girideep Singh said the twin milestones reflected the shipyard’s technical capability and project management systems. He also acknowledged the contribution of technology partners Vedam and Solas Marine to the programme.

The tug construction programme is being undertaken in the context of broader efforts to modernise India’s port ecosystem under Maritime India Vision 2030, alongside the wider push for domestic capability development under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Beyond immediate operational needs, the project is expected to support local employment and reinforce Visakhapatnam’s position as a centre for shipbuilding and maritime services on India’s eastern coast.

'Big Cars, Small Space': A Daily Rider's View of Why Hyderabad's Traffic is Getting Worse | Read Viral Post

Divya Danu — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 19:52:38 +0530

A Rapido/Uber rider who travels 120-150 km every day in Hyderabad has posted a clear and simple diagnosis of the city's traffic problems. He says the main cause is not the number of people. It is the number of large vehicles carrying too few people. He sees things that drivers in cars often do not notice.

The roads in Hyderabad are old and narrow. They were not built for today's vehicle load. Building more flyovers will not fix local choke points. The rider says the same blockages keep appearing because the main roads themselves cannot handle so many big vehicles.

'Cars are too big and too easy to buy'

The rider points out that many cars on the road are large SUVs or sedans with only one or two people inside. A single big car takes up the space that four or five bikes could use. From a bike seat you see these big gaps being closed by oversized vehicles every minute. This slows traffic a lot.

Easy car EMIs are a big reason for this change. Banks now offer long loans with small down payments. People buy cars on EMI like they buy mobile phones. This encourages buyers to choose expensive SUVs that they do not need. Many buyers cannot truly afford fuel and maintenance but still buy cars because the monthly payment seems small.

If even 20 percent of bikers buy cars, the rider warns, Hyderabad's traffic will collapse. For now, the many two-wheelers keep the city moving.

As a Rapido/Uber rider doing 150 km a day in Hyderabad, here’s the real cause of our traffic messbyu/Parvez69 inhyderabad

Public transport is not solving the problem

Public transport does not help much, the rider says. The metro is useful but it does not reach most places where people live or work. Buses are slow and unreliable. Auto rickshaws charge high fares when they want. Without reliable public transport, people fall back on private vehicles. Private vehicles then multiply because buying a car is so easy.

A commenter on his post agrees that the solution is not more lanes. Instead, the city needs better public transport, more walkable footpaths and less car-centric design. If buses and metros reached more places, people might prefer them over private cars.

Pollution and poor regulation add to the problem

Another comment draws attention to pollution from autos. Some autos use poor fuel to save money and leave black smoke. The rider says he wears a mask while riding because the air is often so bad he can taste the pollution. This is a public health issue as well as a traffic problem.

A commenter also noted a pattern across sectors. When public services are weakened, private firms fill the gap. The telecom example was mentioned: when public providers were pushed out, private companies grew. The same pattern applies to transport. Reduced public transport encourages private vehicle sales, which benefits vehicle manufacturers.

Work concentration and city planning make traffic worse

Comments on the Reddit user's post also highlight another cause: job concentration. Many private jobs are concentrated in the west of Hyderabad in tech and finance districts. New offices keep opening in the same areas. This leads to uneven travel patterns and heavy flow on certain roads. Corporates that create large offices should not get incentives that push work to a few parts of the city, one comment says.

High-rise development also affects roads. New housing with many flats adds many users to the same road space. A reader wrote that roads and population density must be proportional. If roads are small and many people live nearby in high rises, traffic will gridlock. The suggestion was simple: build better public transport and more walkable spaces.

Not all blame rests with car owners. One comment points out that many two-wheeler riders drive recklessly. They change lanes quickly, overtake on the left and sometimes use the wrong side of the road. These behaviours also add to inefficient traffic movement and danger on the roads.

Readers reacted to the rider's clear writing and skills. One asked why he rides Rapido/Uber if he could do other work. The rider replied that he is building skills and using this phase to stay afloat. He aims to take home about Rs 1,000 after commission and fuel, which requires riding 120-150 km.

Another reader recalled meeting an Uber driver with excellent English who chose ride work over a 9 to 5 job. The comment shows that many people choose gig work for different reasons: some are waiting for a chance, others prefer flexibility.

A likely future unless policy changes

The rider says current peak-hour speeds are low. It can take 35-40 minutes to travel 10 km during peak hours now. Five years ago this was not normal. If nothing changes, Hyderabad risks heading towards a Bangalore-style traffic collapse, with wider roads and worse discipline.

The rider urges the city to stop treating flyovers as the main solution. He calls for strong investment in public transport, better bus services, metro expansion, walkable footpaths and sensible rules about where large offices can set up. He also suggests the city balance roads with planned housing so density does not overwhelm the infrastructure.

What people want: practical fixes

Commenters offered practical ideas:

Improve and expand bus services to be reliable and fast.
Extend the metro network to more residential and work areas.
Build safer, walkable footpaths and cycle lanes.
Avoid car-centric planning and reduce incentives that favour office clustering.
Encourage shared rides and higher vehicle occupancy.
Enforce cleaner fuels and stricter rules for autos to limit pollution.

One comment read as: "I would be willing to pay Rs 7,000-8,000 a month for an AC bus that made travel easy and safe." That shows demand for quality public transport exists.

A rider's warning and a city's choice

A full-time rider who knows the city from ground level drew a simple conclusion: the problem is not too many people, but too many big vehicles carrying too few people in a city that was never built for them. Hyderabad can avoid worse gridlock if it acts now. The choice is clear: fix public transport, rethink road use and limit car growth driven by easy EMIs or face much longer journeys and more pollution in the years ahead.

'Invited To Resort': Telugu Influencer's Shocking Claim About Casting Couch In Tollywood Goes Viral (WATCH)

Divya Danu — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 21:11:59 +0530

A Telugu influencer based in New York has sparked a major debate after sharing her experience while trying to enter the Tollywood. The video, which is now viral, contains serious allegations about how she was approached during the casting process. The influencer, known on Instagram as 'Piku Nemali', said she faced an uncomfortable and troubling situation while trying to find work as an artist.

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A post shared by ✨ (@piku_nemali)

How the contact began

In her video, the influencer explained that she came in touch with an assistant director through her contacts. She shared her portfolio and photos, hoping to get an opportunity in the industry. She said they had a phone conversation where she clearly expressed her interest and commitment to acting.

Allegation of inappropriate request

According to her, things took a disturbing turn when the person later called her and asked her to come to a resort in India to meet a producer.

She alleged that the invitation was not professional and hinted at expectations of sexual favours. Realising this, she said she immediately blocked the person and cut all contact.

Fear among aspiring actors

The influencer said that such experiences make many talented Telugu girls afraid to enter the industry. She expressed concern about what she described as a “bad culture” that discourages newcomers.

In a follow-up comment, she said she had shared names and reported the matter to a women’s support team within the industry. However, she added that she did not have strong proof except for some text messages.

Actor Jhansi steps in

Following the viral video, popular television artist Jhansi reached out to the influencer. Jhansi, who is part of the women's support panel in the industry, advised her to file a formal complaint with the Sexual Harassment Redressal Panel for further action.

She assured that the issue would be taken seriously and looked into properly.

Mixed reactions on social media

The video has received a large number of views, comments, and shares. Many users supported the influencer and praised her for speaking up. Some people shared advice on how to stay safe during casting calls, such as verifying production houses and avoiding unknown invitations.

Casting Couch is one of most debatable topics which often comes up for discussion among the insiders of the movie industry and also in the common public.Several controversies erupted in the past due to this immoral topic as numerous allegations were made by actresses in various… pic.twitter.com/1vrOSmazZ3

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) April 3, 2026

Others said that while such incidents are wrong, they should not define the entire industry. A few comments also criticised or doubted the claims, showing divided opinions online.

Calls for awareness and safety

The incident has once again raised questions about safety for newcomers in the entertainment world. Experts and users online stressed the need for better awareness, stronger support systems, and careful verification before trusting unknown contacts. Many also encouraged aspiring actors to report such incidents without fear.

Doctor Held In Andhra Pradesh's Vijayawada After PG Medico's Suicide; Police Suspect Relationship Dispute

Divya Danu — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:35:45 +0530

Police in Andhra Pradesh's Vijayawada have arrested a doctor in connection with the suicide of a postgraduate medical student that took place in February. The arrest came after investigators examined phone records and digital messages linked to the case. The deceased student, Battula Deepika, was studying anaesthesiology and working as a duty doctor at the Government General Hospital (GGH) in Vijayawada.

Student died after injecting herself

Deepika, a final-year postgraduate student at Siddhartha Medical College, died on February 5 inside the hospital where she worked. According to police, as reported by the Times of India, she allegedly injected herself with a fatal dose.

Hospital staff later found her collapsed in her room. Her sudden death shocked fellow students and hospital staff. After the incident, Deepika’s parents filed a complaint, asking police to conduct a detailed investigation into the circumstances of her death.

Also Read: From Selling Flowers To Civil Judge, Bengaluru Woman's Inspiring Journey

Phone call records helped police investigation

During the investigation, Machavaram police studied Deepika’s mobile phone data and WhatsApp messages. The analysis revealed that she had spoken to a doctor named Alugupalli Amar Sahasya shortly before her death.

Police said the call lasted around nine minutes and took place around 12.30 am on February 4. Investigators also found that the two had communicated several times earlier.

Officials believe the conversation and the relationship between the two may have played a role in the events that followed.

Relationship dispute suspected

Police said Deepika and Amar were allegedly in a relationship. However, investigators believe Amar was preparing to marry another woman. According to officers, Amar had reportedly refused to marry Deepika. They suspect this may have caused her severe emotional distress.

Based on the evidence collected so far, police believe this situation may have pushed her to take the extreme step.

Also Read: Viral Video Shows Elderly Women Attending 'Aajibai Chi Shala' With Big Dreams

Doctor arrested under BNS provision

The accused doctor, Amar Sahasya, is from Bachupalli and was working at the Government Hospital in Nandigama in NTR district. The NTR Police Commissionerate arrested him on Monday. Central Zone Assistant Commissioner of Police K. Damodar said Amar has been booked under Section 108 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, which deals with abetment to suicide.

Police said the arrest was made after technical evidence and digital communication were carefully examined.

Father pursued the case for nearly a month

Deepika’s death had raised several questions earlier. Her father continued to press the authorities for action and asked police to investigate the matter thoroughly. Officials said the arrest marks an important step in the investigation. Police are continuing to question the accused to understand the full sequence of events leading up to Deepika’s death.

Further investigation is currently underway.

(Suicide is never a solution. Seek help from mental-health professionals. If you ever experience such thoughts, please call the ‘DISHA’ helpline. Toll-free helpline numbers: 1056, 0471-2552056)

Cyclone Montha: Andhra Pradesh on High Alert, CM Naidu Mobilises NDRF, SDRF Teams Ahead of Landfall

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 23:42:12 +0530

As Cyclone Montha moves closer to the eastern coast, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to take immediate action to safeguard lives and minimise damage in coastal areas, a release said on Monday. As per the release, during a teleconference from the RTGS Centre at the Secretariat, the Chief Minister instructed district collectors and superintendents of police to "shift residents of vulnerable coastal areas to rehabilitation centres without any delay".

The CM emphasised the importance of ensuring high-quality food and safe drinking water at rehabilitation centres. He also ordered the appointment of special officers to oversee the functioning of these centres. "Precautions must be taken to prevent the pollution of drinking water", he said.

According to the official press release, district collectors have been tasked with taking full responsibility for cyclone relief measures, including monitoring breaches to tanks and irrigation channels. Nellore District Collector Himanshu Shukla reported that precautionary steps are already underway to manage incessant rains in the region.

'Efforts on to protect lives and minimise disruptions'

The Chief Minister, however, urged officials to remain vigilant and improve drainage systems to prevent flooding. The CM stressed the need for an actionable plan to address the challenges posed by Cyclone Montha and called for enhanced coordination among officials.With the cyclone expected to intensify further, the state administration has mobilised resources and emergency services to mitigate risks. The Chief Minister assured that “all efforts are being made to protect lives and minimise disruptions.”

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Cyclone Montha is likely to intensify into a 'Severe Cyclonic Storm' (SCS) and cross the Andhra Pradesh coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam during the evening and night of October 28.For rescue and rapid response, 11 NDRF and 12 SDRF teams have been positioned with Fire Services, swimmers, OBM boats, life jackets and emergency equipment deployed across coastal zones, and the 108/104 ambulance network and medical camps have been activated in all cyclone shelters.

To enable immediate relief work, the Government has authorised withdrawal of funds under TR-27 for rescue, evacuation, medical care, food, drinking water, sanitation and road clearance, with additional funds available for severely affected districts as needed.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed)

Andhra Pradesh SHOCKER! Woman's Outburst at Bapatla Wine Shop Goes Viral, Police Probe On

Divya Danu — Sat, 24 Jan 2026 19:47:07 +0530

A CCTV video from a wine shop in Bapatla, Andhra Pradesh, showing a woman arguing with staff and assaulting a worker, has gone viral. The incident occurred on January 22 around 9:40 pm. Conflicting claims exist over what triggered the outburst.

An incident at a wine shop in Bapatla town of Andhra Pradesh has triggered wide discussion after a CCTV video went viral on social media. A young man working at the shop was allegedly assaulted by a woman, who later filed a police complaint against him.

Police have confirmed that they are investigating the matter from all sides. The incident reportedly took place at Srinivas Wines, located in the Peta area of Bapatla.

A young man working at a wine shop in #Bapatla, #AndhraPradesh, was allegedly assaulted by a woman, who later filed a police complaint against him.Authorities are investigating the incident, which has caused a stir in the town. pic.twitter.com/HLasZTUmRW

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) January 24, 2026

The viral CCTV footage shows a young woman entering the wine shop in an angry mood. The time stamp on the video reads January 22, 2026, at around 9:40 pm, which was a Thursday.

In the video, the woman is seen arguing with a man behind the counter. She throws a box from the counter in anger and then turns towards another man, scolding him strongly. The woman appears visibly upset and continues shouting inside the shop.

The footage further shows the woman grabbing one of the staff members and pulling him towards the outside of the shop. Moments later, an elderly man enters the frame and speaks to her. As there is no audio in the CCTV recording, the exact words exchanged are not known.

However, the visuals suggest that the elderly man may have some authority. He pushes the dragged man back into the shop and then points at the man behind the counter, as if questioning him about what happened.

The exact reason for the woman’s anger remains unclear. Some reports claim she became angry after being told that the liquor brand she asked for was out of stock.

Others present at the shop said the woman appeared drunk and demanded bottles of alcohol without paying. When the staff refused, the argument reportedly turned into a physical altercation. These claims have not yet been officially confirmed.

Police said a complaint has been registered and all angles are being examined. Statements from the shop staff and the woman involved are being recorded.

ఏపీలో వైన్ షాపులో మహిళ హల్చల్‌బాపట్ల పట్టణంలోని వైన్ షాపులో పని చేసే యువకుడిపై దాడి చేసి, తిరిగి అతడిపైనే పోలీసులకు ఫిర్యాదు చేసిన మహిళ pic.twitter.com/i0RTJjFIdq

— Telugu Scribe (@TeluguScribe) January 24, 2026

Meanwhile, the video has gone massively viral on social media. Netizens are reacting with humour, with several making jokes and sarcastic comments about the incident. However, police have urged people not to jump to conclusions until the investigation is complete.

Cyclone Montha Landfall Begins Near Kakinada, Andhra Braces for Heavy Rain and Strong Winds

Divya Danu — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 21:00:36 +0530

Cyclone Montha began making landfall near Kakinada on Tuesday evening, bringing strong winds and heavy rain to coastal Andhra Pradesh. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Severe Cyclonic Storm Montha over the west-central Bay of Bengal moved north-northwestwards at a speed of 17 kmph over the past six hours. As of 6:30 PM (IST) on October 28, 2025, it was centred near latitude 16.05°N and longitude 82.25°E, about 110 km east of Machilipatnam, 100 km south of Kakinada, 220 km south-southwest of Visakhapatnam, and 460 km southwest of Gopalpur in Odisha.

The Severe #CyclonicStorm “#Montha” [Pronunciation: Mon-Tha] over westcentral Bay of Bengal moved north-northwestwards with a speed of #17kmph during past six hours and lay centered at 1830 hrs IST of today, the 28th October 2025, over the same region, near latitude 16.05°N &… pic.twitter.com/XRnVhsTOtm

— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) October 28, 2025

Latest observations indicates that the #LandfallProcess has commenced. The #landfall process will #continue for next 3-4 hours.The Severe Cyclonic Storm “#Montha” [Pronunciation: Mon-Tha] over westcentral Bay of Bengal moved north-northwestwards with a speed of 15 kmph during… pic.twitter.com/AMVOGxGv9G

— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) October 28, 2025

IMD says the landfall for Cyclone Montha has begun and and will continue for 3-4 hours. Hope the destruction is limited. Doppler radar image from Machilipatnam aka Bandar. pic.twitter.com/7lLa3Q33Ix

— serish (@serish) October 28, 2025

LANDFALL PROCESS OF CYCLONE MONTHA STARTED ⚠️ Cyclone Montha crossing coast at Amalapuram - Narsapuram as an EMPTY SHELL (only winds, no rains) across Kakinada, Rajhamundry, Pithapuram, Yanam, Bhimavaram Meanwhile due to SHEAR IMPACT, INSANE DOWNPOURS SMASHING across…

— Telangana Weatherman (@balaji25_t) October 28, 2025

ଦକ୍ଷିଣ ଓଡ଼ିଶାର ବିଭିନ୍ନ ସ୍ଥାନରେ ବର୍ଷା ଓ ପବନ ଆରମ୍ଭ ହୋଇଯାଇଛି । ରାୟଗଡ଼ା ଜିଲ୍ଲାର କାଶୀପୁର ଠାରେ ବର୍ଷାପବନରେ ଗଛ ଭାଙ୍ଗିଯିବା ପରେ ଅଗ୍ନିଶମ ବାହିନୀ ଉଦ୍ଧାର କାର୍ଯ୍ୟ ଆରମ୍ଭ କରିଛି ।#Cyclone #Montha #WeatherUpdate #Rayagada pic.twitter.com/innowIwr5O

— DD News Odia (@DDNewsOdia) October 28, 2025

ALERT ; The impact of Cyclone Montha has begun .Andhra Pradesh and Odisha are on high alert and the administration in coastal areas have started evacuations in the coastal areas. Fishermen have been asked not to venture out into open seas till the cyclonic storm,… pic.twitter.com/1LPGY5Pslx

— CSE Aspirants (@cse_aspirantss) October 28, 2025

#WATCH | Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh: Visuals from Kakinada-Uppada Beach Road as the sea turns turbulent due to the impact of Cyclone Montha.Cyclone Montha is expected to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam around Kakinada during the… pic.twitter.com/AGtQBR2roo

— ANI (@ANI) October 28, 2025

Red alerts in 19 districts

The weather office has issued red alerts for 19 districts in Andhra Pradesh, warning of extremely heavy rainfall. Neighboring states, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Kerala, and Karnataka, may also see moderate to heavy showers as the storm moves inland.

HOURLY UPDATE BASED ON 1430 HOURS IST OF 28TH OCTOBER 2025 FOR SCS “MONTHA”The SCS Montha moved north-northwestwards and at 1430 hrs IST of 28th Oct, it lay about 70 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam, 150km south-southeast of Kakinada (Andhra Pradesh), 250 km south-southwest… pic.twitter.com/ihq2HOMY51

— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) October 28, 2025

Government steps up rescue and relief work

The Andhra Pradesh government has set up over 800 relief centres and moved pregnant women to hospitals. More than 1,000 electricians have been deployed to ensure uninterrupted power supply, while 140 swimmers with boats are on standby for emergencies.

More than 1,000 electricians have been deployed to ensure uninterrupted power supply, while 140 swimmers with boats are on standby for emergencies.

Kakinada MP Uday Srinivas Tangella, who is monitoring the situation in Uppada, said: “Our government is fully prepared. The Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan have been watching the situation closely for the past two days.”

#WATCH | Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh | Uppada locals affected due to impending cyclone Montha shifted to shelter homes with all basic facilities, including food Kakinada MP Uday Srinivas Tangella, who is present on the ground in Uppada, monitors the situation pic.twitter.com/SLOEDuxo7l

— ANI (@ANI) October 28, 2025

#WATCH | Odisha: Fishing boats that had come from Andhra Pradesh are unable to return due to Cyclone Montha. All 50 fishing boats have been kept anchored in the harbour of Gopalpur port in Ganjam district. Fishing boats of Odisha have been kept in berth of Gopalpur for cyclone. pic.twitter.com/CaTw0ynZ8i

— ANI (@ANI) October 28, 2025

NDRF and SDRF teams deployed

Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been stationed in the coastal districts to assist with evacuations and rescue operations.

In view of Cyclone Montha, forming over the central Bay of Bengal, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has pre-deployed its 25 teams across the likely affected coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh, and Puducherry. A total of 20 additional… pic.twitter.com/9P9PlLvRzI

— ANI (@ANI) October 28, 2025

Party volunteers are urging people to move to shelters to avoid casualties, the MP said.

Railways take precautionary measures

The Indian Railways has cancelled, diverted, and rescheduled several trains across the Waltair Division of the East Coast Railway Zone as a precaution. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has directed railway officials to stay alert in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Telangana due to the cyclone’s impact.

Top officials monitor from control room

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, along with ministers and senior officers, reviewed the situation through the Real-Time Governance System (RTGS) control room.

Naidu has instructed district officials to ensure the safety of all residents and minimize damage in vulnerable coastal regions.

Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri @ncbn garu is continuously monitoring the situation arising due to Cyclone Montha. The Chief Minister reviewed the situation at RTGS and later held a teleconference with District Collectors and senior officials. He directed the officials to give top… pic.twitter.com/ausERAXeXe

— CMO Andhra Pradesh (@AndhraPradeshCM) October 28, 2025

IMD's afternoon update

As of 2:30 PM on October 28, IMD said Cyclone Montha was located about 70 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam, 150 km south-southeast of Kakinada, and 250 km south-southwest of Visakhapatnam. The storm continues to move north-northwestward, bringing strong winds and heavy rains to the Andhra coast.

People urged to stay safe

Authorities have urged people living in coastal areas to remain indoors and avoid venturing out until the storm weakens. Emergency helplines have been activated, and relief teams are on standby

(With ANI inputs)

Andhra Shocker! Barefoot Ginger Cleaning Video Goes Viral, Raises Serious Questions On Hygiene And Food Safety

Divya Danu — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 14:26:34 +0530

A video from Guntur in Andhra Pradesh has gone viral on social media, showing a man cleaning a large amount of ginger in a big vessel using his bare feet. In the clip, the man is seen stepping on the ginger to remove dirt. Reports say the cleaned ginger is later used to make paste, which is then added to biryani. The visuals have shocked many people, especially because the food is meant for public consumption.

बिरियानी बनाने की तैयारी चल रही है। पैरों से रौंदकर अदरक की सफ़ाई चल रही है। इसी अदरक को पीसकर इसका पेस्ट बनाया जाता है और फिर उसी से मस्त बिरियानी बनेगी। वीडियो आंध्र प्रदेश के गुंटूर का है। pic.twitter.com/ZTbWPUJUiO

— Bhadohi Wallah (@Mithileshdhar) April 7, 2026

Also Read: Shocking CCTV Clip Shows Dog Biting Several Men In Seconds, Internet Divided Over Cause

People react with mixed opinions online

The video has triggered strong reactions from social media users. Many people questioned the hygiene standards and raised concerns about food safety.

Some users criticised the practice and asked whether food safety officials were taking action. Others linked the video to larger concerns about how food is prepared behind the scenes.

In #AndhraPradesh #Guntur, using chilli to trample #biryani leftovers and cook biryani at Subani Hotel on Beedi RoadIf people eat this biryani.. what will happen to them, Chandrababu? Are your food safety officials asleep? pic.twitter.com/Sf8wDCA56D

— Siraj Noorani (@sirajnoorani) April 7, 2026

ऐसे लोगों पर तो कड़ी कार्यवाही होनी चाहिए आंध्र प्रदेश के गुंटूर में बिरियानी बनाने के लिए अदरक की सफ़ाई चल रही है। इसी अदरक को पीसकर इसका पेस्ट बनाया जाता है pic.twitter.com/YGT5RoV5Xg

— Priya singh (@priyarajputlive) April 7, 2026

At the same time, a section of users defended the method. They said ginger is often cleaned this way in large quantities because it is difficult to wash by hand. However, some suggested that at least protective gear like foot covers or gloves should be used.

Also Read: Ahmedabad Tragedy: Ready-Made Dosa Batter Kills 2 Kids, Parents Critical

There were also light-hearted comments, with a few people joking about the situation, while others said such practices must change with time.

Link to recent food safety case in Telangana

The viral video has appeared at a time when food safety is already under focus. In a separate case in Hyderabad, Telangana Police recently arrested a man named Hasan Ali for making and selling adulterated ginger and garlic paste.

⚠️Visuals show adulterated ginger-garlic paste being made unhygienically in HyderabadPolice ARRESTS one! pic.twitter.com/gSXaFk09VE

— The Tatva (@thetatvaindia) March 31, 2026

Officials seized items worth around ₹22 lakh during the operation. The action was led by IPS officer Vaibhav Gaikwad Raghunath. This case has increased public concern about the quality and safety of food products available in the market.

Need for better hygiene awareness

Experts say that proper cleaning and safe handling of food ingredients are very important, especially when food is prepared for others. They stress that even if traditional methods are used, hygiene should not be ignored. Clean water, proper tools, and protective measures can help reduce health risks.

No Money, No Vehicle! Family Forced to Carry Man's Body on Motorcycle After Heart Attack in Andhra's Bapatla

Divya Danu — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 20:41:15 +0530

Nakka Nageswara Rao from Andhra's Bapatla died of a heart attack and was declared brought dead at a govt hospital. With no vehicle available and unable to afford Rs 2,000-4,000 for private transport, his brothers carried his body 12-13 km on a bike.

A painful incident from Andhra Pradesh’s Bapatla district has shocked many people after two brothers were forced to carry their sibling’s body on a motorcycle because they could not afford transport.

Nakka Nageswara Rao, a resident of Ralla Cheruvu in Chintayapalem Panchayat, Karlapalem Mandal, suffered a heart attack. His family rushed him to the Bapatla Area Government Hospital on a bike. However, doctors at the hospital declared that he was brought dead.

Rao supported his family by doing odd jobs. He is survived by his wife, two daughters and a son.

After his death, the family faced another hardship. There was no 'Mahaprasthanam' vehicle available near the hospital to transport the body. These vehicles are meant for free transportation of bodies in some government hospitals.

Disclaimer: The below video has disturbing visuals. Viewer discretion advised

Two men transported the body of their brother on a motorcycle for 13 kilometres, as they could not afford to hire an auto in #Bapatla district on Tuesday.The deceased man identified as Nakka Nageswara Rao, suffered a heart attack and was brought to Area Hospital in Bapatla,… pic.twitter.com/0PKG5NMgYM

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) February 11, 2026

The family tried to hire a private vehicle. According to reports, they were asked to pay between Rs 2,000 and Rs 4,000. The brothers said they could not afford the amount.

With no other option, two men transported the body of their brother on a motorcycle for about 12 to 13 kilometres to their native village, Chintayapalem. One brother rode the bike while the other sat behind, holding the body carefully, health officials confirmed.

As the brothers carried the body through the road, some local people took photos and videos. These clips were later shared on social media and quickly went viral. Many users expressed shock and sadness over the incident.

The images showed the brothers travelling slowly on the bike with the body placed between them. The sight moved many viewers and sparked strong reactions online.

After the videos spread widely, Bapatla District Collector Vinod Kumar responded to the matter. He ordered a detailed inquiry and asked for a report to be submitted immediately.

The Collector also said that proposals are being sent to the government to sanction a Mahaprasthanam vehicle for the Bapatla Area Government Hospital.

According to Samayam Telugu, the Collector assured that action would be taken after the inquiry.

Bapatla district medical and health officer Vijaya said the brothers had not informed hospital authorities about their financial situation. Speaking to News Nine, she said:

“Mahaprasthanam vehicles meant for free transportation of bodies are available at government hospitals attached to medical colleges. We are probing into the matter and will make sure such lapses do not recur.”

Hospital officials also stated that if the family had informed them about their difficulty, arrangements could have been made.

A Larger Question On Public Facilities

The incident has raised questions about access to basic public services in smaller government hospitals. Many people online asked why a poor family had to suffer even after losing a loved one.

For the family of Nakka Nageswara Rao, the loss was already painful. The struggle to take his body home made it even more heartbreaking.

Authorities have promised an investigation. The report is now awaited.

Cyclone Ditwah: Warnings, Alerts and Rescue Teams in Place as Storm Nears Landfall

Divya Danu — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 10:46:06 +0530

Cyclone Ditwah is moving closer to the Tamil Nadu-Puducherry-South Andhra Pradesh coast, bringing the risk of very heavy rain, strong winds, and rough sea conditions. Multiple districts are under red and orange alerts, fishermen have been pulled away from the sea, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been deployed across several areas as the storm slowly intensifies. Officials say the exact landfall time will depend on the cyclone’s shifting track over the next 24 hours.

The cyclonic system developed from a deep depression near the Sri Lankan coast and is now being treated as a cyclonic storm. For now, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) does not expect it to grow into a severe cyclone, but it is still strong enough to bring dangerous weather across southern India.

Cyclonic Storm Ditwah [Pronunciation: Ditwah] over coastal Sri Lanka & adjoining southwestBay of Bengal: Cyclone Alert for north Tamil Nadu & Puducherry andadjoining south Andhra Pradesh coasts (Orange Message) The Cyclonic Storm Ditwah [Pronunciation: Ditwah] over coastalSri… pic.twitter.com/5tws6Xm4F5

— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) November 28, 2025

Cyclone track and wind strength

According to the IMD, winds near the core of Cyclone Ditwah may reach 60-80 kmph, with gusts up to 90 kmph. The outer bands could produce winds of 35–45 kmph, gusting to 55 kmph. Similar conditions may also appear over parts of the Arabian Sea near Kerala, Lakshadweep, and the Maldives.

The IMD said that the system is currently over the Southwest Bay of Bengal, close to the Sri Lankan coast. As of early Friday morning, the storm was located:

50 km south of Trincomalee (Sri Lanka)
70 km northwest of Batticaloa
220 km north of Hambantota
460 km south-southeast of Puducherry
560 km south-southeast of Chennai

The storm moved at 10 kmph in the last six hours. It is likely to continue travelling north-northwest along the Sri Lankan coast, re-enter the Bay of Bengal, and then approach the Tamil Nadu-Puducherry-South Andhra coast between the evening of November 29 and the morning of November 30.

Red and orange alerts in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu has issued a red alert for:

Thanjavur
Tiruvarur
Nagapattinam
Mayiladuthurai

These districts may receive more than 20 cm of rain in 24 hours. An orange alert has been issued for nearby districts such as:

Chennai
Tiruvallur
Kancheepuram
Ranipet
Chengalpattu

Chief Minister MK Stalin held a meeting with the state’s disaster management authority to check preparedness. He directed all departments to coordinate closely and ensure relief teams are ready. Authorities said the northeast monsoon has brought about 35 cm of rain so far, slightly more than normal, although Chennai remains 31% below its usual rainfall.

In the last 24 hours, scattered rain was seen in Tamil Nadu. Thangachimadam recorded 3 cm of rain, while Puducherry and Karaikal saw very little.

The cyclone’s name, Ditwah, was suggested by Yemen. It is likely inspired by the Detwah Lagoon located on Socotra Island.

Warnings and alerts in Andhra Pradesh

The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) confirmed that the deep depression near Sri Lanka strengthened into Cyclone Ditwah and is now moving towards the state. Heavy rain and strong winds are expected across:

South Coastal Andhra Pradesh
Rayalaseema

Districts expected to receive heavy to very heavy rain include:

Chittoor
Tirupati
Nellore
Prakasam
YSR Kadapa
Annamayya
Sri Sathya Sai

The storm is expected to move close to the north Tamil Nadu-Puducherry-south Andhra stretch between November 29 and 30.

Alerts and instructions for Puducherry

Puducherry is under an orange alert from November 28 to December 1 due to the impact of Cyclone Ditwah. The administration issued several safety warnings:

Residents should avoid stepping out unless absolutely necessary.
People should not take shelter under trees, lamp posts, or weak buildings.
Parents should keep children away from open spaces during strong winds or heavy rain.

Emergency help can be reached through: 1077, 1070, 112

Disaster Management Authority WhatsApp helpline: 94889 81070

Sri Lanka faces heavy damage, deaths and floods

While India prepares for the cyclone, Sri Lanka is already experiencing the worst phase of the weather linked to the same system. The country has seen three days of continuous rain, which triggered:

Severe floods
Landslides
Road collapses
Transport shutdowns

Sri Lankan officials confirmed that 47 people have died so far. Schools and institutions are closed, and seven districts are under a red alert. The Sri Lankan Air Force has been deployed for rescue operations.

Train services have been reduced, and many flights may be diverted to Thiruvananthapuram or Cochin due to poor visibility and storms.

Officials say the flooding is linked to the deep depression near Sri Lanka, the same weather system that eventually developed into Cyclone Ditwah over the Bay of Bengal.

NDRF teams deployed across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry

In response to requests from the Tamil Nadu and Puducherry disaster management authorities, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed eight teams across the region. Details of deployment:

Puducherry: 2 teams (60 personnel)
Thanjavur: 1 team
Nagapattinam: 1 team
Mayiladuthurai: 1 team
Pudukkottai: 1 team
Cuddalore: 1 team
Tiruvarur: 1 team
Each team has 30 trained members.

The deployment also includes the Search Dog Unit, which has four trained dogs:

Rani
Mickey
Laika
Rambo

These dogs help rescuers find trapped victims during disasters, especially in collapsed buildings or debris-covered areas.

IMD updates and what to expect next

The IMD said that Cyclone Ditwah is intensifying slowly, but there is no current forecast for it to upgrade into a severe cyclonic storm. Still, the rainfall may be very heavy, and the storm will bring unsafe sea conditions. The biggest concern remains:

Heavy to very heavy rain in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Andhra Pradesh
Rough seas, making fishing unsafe for the next five days
Falling trees or damage to weak structures due to wind

Flooding in low-lying areas

A clearer landfall prediction will become possible once the cyclone moves away from the Sri Lankan coast into open sea.

Cyclone Ditwah is moving steadily toward the Tamil Nadu-Puducherry-South Andhra coast, bringing warnings, alerts, and large-scale preparation. With NDRF teams on the ground, red and orange alerts issued, and rescue forces active in Sri Lanka, authorities have asked people to stay cautious, stay indoors, and follow all safety instructions. Over the next 24 hours, the storm’s track will determine how strong the impact will be along the Indian coast.

(With inputs from agencies)

Cyclone Montha: 30 IndiGo, 2 Air India, 5 Air India Express Flights Cancelled in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana

Asianet Newsable English — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 19:11:35 +0530

In the wake of Severe Cyclonic Storm (SCS) Montha, over 35 flights between Shamshabad in Telangana and Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, and Rajahmundry airports in Andhra Pradesh have been cancelled, GMR Airports said. A total of 30 IndiGo, two Air India and five Air India Express flights have been cancelled as the SCS Month approaches the Andhra Pradesh coast around Kakinada. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), SCS Montha is expected to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast around Kakinada during Tuesday evening or tonight with maximum sustained wind speed of 90-100 kmph gusting to 110 kmph.

"The SCS Montha moved north-northwestwards and at 1430 hrs IST of 28th Oct, it lay about 70 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam, 150km south-southeast of Kakinada (Andhra Pradesh), 250 km south-southwest of Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) and 480 km south-southwest of Gopalpur (Odisha)," the IMD said in a post on X.

— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) October 28, 2025

In the wake of heavy rainfall expected in 39 constituencies in Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has directed the Ministers, MPs, and MLAs to provide assistance to the people affected.

Officials informed the CM that heavy rainfall is expected in Visakhapatnam, the erstwhile East and West Godavari districts, Krishna, Guntur, Prakasam, and Nellore districts.

Houses vacated in Kothapatnam

Earlier today, officials made announcements, urging people to vacate their houses in Kothapatnam village, as a precautionary measure for SCS Montha. NDRF teams have been deployed in Uppada.

NDRF Inspector Biswas said, “The Team is deployed here for 24 hours. We came here two days ago. I visited here yesterday as well. The areas which I feel need evacuation, and people need to be taken to shelters, we are campaigning there. The cyclone is hitting this evening. There is no need to panic. We are coordinating with the local administration. I appeal to the people to reach shelters and cooperate with us.”

The beach road of Kakinada and Uppada has been closed to prevent accidents after about an 8-kilometre stretch of the road suffered damage this morning.

Meanwhile, in Odisha, fishing boats that had come from Andhra Pradesh are unable to return due to Cyclone Montha. All 50 fishing boats have been kept anchored in the harbour of Gopalpur port in Ganjam district.

BJP MLA Krushna Chandra Nayak said, “All arrangements have been made for the Cyclone. Odisha CM has given instructions to the District Administration to be alert. District Administration has taken all steps for the Cyclone.”

Tamil Nadu is also likely to witness moderate rain with thunder and lightning in several districts, including Thoothukudi. Fishermen are advised to stay ashore for the fourth consecutive day.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed)

24-Year-Old Indian Student Missing in Alaska After Solo Trip to Denali during Christmas Vacation

Divya Danu — Sat, 10 Jan 2026 11:39:49 +0530

A 24-year-old student from Guntur district in Andhra Pradesh has reportedly gone missing in Alaska, United States, during a solo trip taken over the Christmas holidays. The student, Karasani Hari Krishna Reddy, is pursuing a Master’s degree in Houston, Texas.

Hari left for Alaska on December 22 and was travelling alone using public transport. He last contacted his friends and family on December 30. Since then, there has been no communication from him, raising serious concern.

***MISSING*** HEALY, AKAlaska State Troopers are asking for help finding 24-year-old Hari Karasani from Texas, reported missing on January 3, 2026. He was last seen leaving the Aurora Denali Lodge in Healy, Alaska, on December 31, 2025, and may have been heading toward… pic.twitter.com/wPFwM0JJKF

— The AWARE Foundation (@aware_the) January 9, 2026

Last known location was Denali

According to his friends in the United States, Hari was staying at a hotel in Denali, a remote and mountainous region in Alaska. His mobile phone signal was last traced on December 31 in Denali.

Friends said he was reported missing to the Alaska State Troopers on January 3. Police confirmed that Hari was last seen leaving the Aurora Denali Lodge on December 31.

Authorities believe he may have travelled towards the Fairbanks area, though this has not yet been confirmed.

Extreme cold adds to fears

The disappearance has caused alarm due to the extremely harsh weather conditions in Alaska at the time. Temperatures between December 31 and January 1 reportedly dropped to around minus 40 degrees Celsius.

Tourists usually avoid visiting Alaska during peak winter because of the severe cold, snow, and limited daylight. It remains unclear why Hari chose to travel during this dangerous period.

His friends said they do not know the exact purpose of his trip. He had only informed them that he was going on a vacation and would return in about two weeks.

Depended on public transport

Friends also revealed that Hari did not know how to drive and depended entirely on public transport. Before leaving Houston, he told them he would stay in Denali and return by January 3 or 4, according to a report by The Times of India.

Initially, his roommates believed he was unable to contact them due to poor mobile network in mountainous areas. However, concerns increased after they checked his credit card records and noticed a transaction made using a local cab service.

Friends seek help through social media

Hari’s friends, with help from local police, have posted missing person notices on Facebook and Instagram. They have urged people to contact authorities if they have seen him or have any information.

Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Non Resident Telugu Society (APNRT) officials said they have not received any request for help from Hari’s parents so far. They added that they are in touch with local representatives in the US.

Though Alaska is famous for its natural beauty and rare sights like the Northern Lights, it is also known for its dangers. According to US officials, nearly 2,000 people go missing in Alaska every year. In many cases, the bodies are never found.

The search for Hari Krishna Reddy is ongoing as friends and well-wishers continue to hope for his safe return.

Two Software Engineers Die After Drinking Alcohol in Andhra Pradesh

Divya Danu — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 14:32:19 +0530

A festive visit for Sankranti celebrations turned tragic in Andhra Pradesh's Annamayya district, where two software employees died under suspicious circumstances after consuming alcohol. The incident took place at Bandavaddipalle village in KV Palle mandal.

The two men had returned to their native village to celebrate Sankranti with family members. What began as a small gathering ended in sudden illness and death, raising serious concerns about the cause.

Victims identified as software professionals

The deceased have been identified as Manikumar and Pushparaj. Manikumar, aged around 32 to 36, was working as a software professional in Chennai. Pushparaj, aged 28, was employed in Bengaluru, according to a report by The Hindu.

Two software employees, who had returned to their native village for #Sankranti celebrations, died under suspicious circumstances after consuming alcohol at #Bandavaddipalle in #KVPalle mandal of #AndhraPradesh’s #Annamayya district.One of the deceased, identified as Maikumar… pic.twitter.com/GX7He5IGQ2

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) January 19, 2026

Both were young professionals with careers in the technology sector. Their sudden deaths have left their families and the village in deep shock.

According to police, six youths gathered on a hillock near Bandavaddipalle village on Saturday evening. The group included Manikumar, Pushparaj, and four relatives identified as Sravan, Abhishek, Venu, and Shivamani.

They reportedly purchased 16 beer bottles from a liquor outlet in KV Palle and consumed alcohol together in the hilly area.

Sudden illness and rush to hospital

During the drinking session, Manikumar and Pushparaj suddenly fell ill. They complained of severe headaches and a burning sensation in the chest. As their condition worsened during the night, the group rushed them to the Gurramitta Primary Health Centre.

From there, doctors referred them to the Piler Area Hospital, located about 20 kilometres away. Sadly, Manikumar died on the way. Pushparaj died while undergoing treatment at the hospital. Doctors declared both men brought dead.

The four other youths were reported to be safe.

Police and excise teams begin probe

After the incident, police and excise officials examined the spot where the liquor was consumed. The four relatives who were with the deceased have been taken into custody for questioning as part of the investigation.

KV Palle police said the exact cause of death is not yet known. Officials are waiting for the post-mortem reports to determine whether the deaths were caused by excessive alcohol consumption or the intake of adulterated liquor.

Liquor samples have also been sent for forensic testing.

Investigation ongoing

Police have registered a case and stated that further action will depend on medical and forensic reports. The deaths have once again raised concerns about alcohol safety and the risks linked to liquor consumption, especially during festive seasons.

The village remains tense as families await clarity on how two young men lost their lives so suddenly.