Former Andhra Pradesh minister and YSRCP leader Kakani Govardhan Reddy was arrested in Bengaluru and brought back to Nellore for questioning in an illegal mining case. The arrest has sparked political controversy, with YSRCP leaders calling it vindictive action.  

Kakani Govardhan Reddy is the fourth accused (A4) in a major illegal mining operation. Government land near Varadapuram in Nellore district was allegedly encroached upon, and thousands of tons of quartz mineral were illegally excavated and transported. The case was registered on February 16 based on a complaint by mining officer Balaji Naik.  

Despite being served three notices to appear for investigation, Kakani Govardhan Reddy avoided questioning. His legal attempts for anticipatory bail were rejected by both the High Court and the Supreme Court. After remaining at large for weeks, the former minister was finally tracked down and apprehended in Bengaluru.  

Police conducted medical examinations at Venkatachalam PHC before producing him before the Venkatagiri court. Meanwhile, YSRCP leaders, including Anil Kumar Yadav, Meruga Nagarjuna, and Gadikota Srikant Reddy, have condemned the arrest as politically motivated, calling it a red book arrest and claiming their leader is being targeted through personal vendettas.