Hyderabad: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has presented strong arguments against bail for Gajjala Umashankar Reddy, the third accused in the murder case of former minister YS Vivekananda Reddy. During the Telangana High Court hearing, CBI claimed that Umashankar Reddy played a significant role in planning and executing the murder, with witness testimonies placing him at the crime scene.
Justice K. Laxman reviewed the bail petition, with CBI advocate Anil Talwar detailing evidence implicating Reddy. Key witness Watchman Ranganna testified to identifying Reddy thrice, though defense counsel contested inconsistencies in his statements.
According to the CBI, Umashankar Reddy and co-accused Sunil Yadav were captured on video footage, reinforcing their connection to the crime. The CBI further asserted that, based on testimony from Dastagiri, an approver, Reddy struck Vivekananda Reddy with an ax on the forehead, leaving him fatally injured. The plot allegedly stemmed from political disputes tied to local elections, as Vivekananda Reddy had refused to support Reddy’s faction.
CBI’s counsel argued that the accused’s involvement was critical, warning against potential evidence tampering. After extensive arguments, the court reserved its judgment, with a decision pending.
