Questions mount over RTI activist’s conduct and alleged threats

Kurnool: Serious questions are being raised over the activities and conduct of RTI activist Muralidhar Reddy following allegations regarding his alleged criminal antecedents and the manner in which he pursues complaints against government officials.

According to information in police records, multiple cases were registered against him between 2002 and 2021 under various provisions of the IPC and the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, with charges including assault, theft, intimidation, and obstruction of public servants.

While the status of these cases requires verification from judicial authorities, several individuals have alleged that he used personal and official interventions to exert pressure. A retired employee claimed he collected Rs 20,000 promising assistance but failed to help, while retired bank employee ES Mrudula alleged she suffered financial loss exceeding Rs 66,000 after he took provisions and furniture from her store without clearing dues, followed by alleged caste-based insults and threats.

Attention has also been drawn to his social media posts referencing senior officials, including the District Collector, as well as proceedings before the Lokayukta. Observers have called for a comprehensive inquiry into his RTI filings and representations to determine whether they represent genuine public interest or attempts to exert personal pressure.

When contacted over the phone to obtain his response to these allegations, Muralidhar Reddy failed to clarify the claims and allegedly threatened the newspaper correspondent with dire consequences. Authorities emphasize that while legitimate RTI rights must be protected, any proven misuse of legal mechanisms for intimidation must be dealt with strictly.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

V Narendra Kumar

V Narendra Kumar[email protected]

Narendra Kumar Varikuntla is a seasoned journalist with 15 years of experience in reporting and news coverage. He holds a Master's degree in English Literature. He is Staff Correspondent for The Hans India based in Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh Before embarking on his career in journalism, he worked with Tata Robins Fraser (TRF) as a Confidential Assistant at the Rourkela Steel Plant, where he served for 10 years. His tenure at TRF enabled him to develop strong administrative, communication, and organisational skills, which have significantly contributed to his success in journalism. He began his journalistic career with Deccan Chronicle, where he gained valuable experience in reporting and news gathering. Since 2015, he has been serving as a Staff Correspondent with The Hans India, covering the erstwhile Kurnool district, including Kurnool and Nandyal. During his journalism career, Narendra Kumar has extensively reported on governance, politics, public affairs, social issues, agriculture, and developmental activities. He is known for his commitment to accurate, balanced, and responsible journalism, maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. In addition to his journalistic profession, he is actively engaged in agriculture and personally cultivates 10 acres of farmland. His close association with farming provides him with firsthand insight into rural life and farmers' issues, enriching his reporting on agriculture and rural development.

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