An important witness in the murder of former Andhra Pradesh minister and YSR Congress party leader Y S Vivekananda Reddy at his residence in Pulivendula on March 15, 2019, is battling for his life in a government hospital.
According to reports, Rangaiah, who was the watchman at Viveka’s residence at the time of the latter’s murder, has been suffering from age-related issues, besides severe respiratory problems.
He had been first admitted to Pulivendula hospital and from there, he had been shifted to Rajiv Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Kadapa.
“His condition is critical and the doctors are trying their best to save his life,” sources said.
It is learnt Rangaiah’s deposition is very important for the Central Bureau of Investigation to prove its charges against the accused in the Viveka murder case.
He had already issued a statement before the CBI and he has to substantiate the same before the court during the trial.
Rangaiah had worked as the watchman at Viveka’s residence for several years and he was present when the accused entered the house to kill the former minister.
Apparently, the accused threatened Rangaiah of dire consequences if he opened his mouth before the police on the murder.
He remained silent for a long time, but as the investigation progressed further, he deposed before the CBI.
Based on his deposition, the CBI included the names of Kadapa MP Y S Avinash Reddy and his father Bhaskar Reddy.
There were reports that Rangaiah had received threats subsequently several times.
“His health deterioratedseveral times and was hospitalised. Now, his condition is critical,” sources said.