The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) is intensifying its investigation into YSRCP leader and former minister Vidadala Rajini, along with IPS officer Pallo Jashuva, over alleged extortion charges. The duo is accused of threatening the owners of Sri Lakshmi Balaji Stone Crusher in Yadlapadu, Palnadu district, and illegally collecting Rs 2.20 crore from them. The ACB is preparing to file a case against them.
As part of the probe, the ACB has secured approval from the Chief Secretary under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act to investigate Pallo Jashuva. The Andhra Pradesh government has also written to the Governor seeking permission to proceed with an inquiry against Vidadala Rajini, with approval expected in the coming days. If granted, cases will be officially registered against both individuals.
Extortion Allegations and Vigilance Report
A report submitted by the Andhra Pradesh Vigilance & Enforcement Department to the government revealed that Rajini and Pallo Jashuva allegedly demanded ₹5 crore from the stone crusher owners. According to the findings, Rs 2.20 crore was collected, with ₹2 crore reportedly received by Rajini, ₹10 lakh by Pallo Jashuva, and another Rs 10 lakh by Rajini’s personal assistant. Based on this report, the Andhra Pradesh government has directed the ACB to proceed with the investigation.
AP High Court Grants Relief to Vidadala Rajini
Meanwhile, the Andhra Pradesh High Court recently provided relief to Vidadala Rajini in a separate harassment case. While hearing a petition for anticipatory bail, the court directed the Chilakaluripet police not to take strict action against Rajini and her personal assistants.
The case was filed by Pilli Koti, ITDP president of the Chilakaluripet constituency, who alleged that he was harassed by Rajini, her aides, and the police during the previous YSRCP government. He claimed that he was arrested in 2019 for posting content critical of the YSRCP government on social media. Furthermore, he alleged that after his arrest, the Chilakaluripet town CI subjected him to distress by deliberately not presenting him before the court.