Andhra Pradesh Women’s Federation seeks arrest of Union Minister’s son in POCSO case

Members of the Andhra Pradesh Women’s Federation at a press meet in Vijayawada on Wednesday. | Photo Credit: G.N. Rao Leaders of the Andhra Pradesh Women’s Federation have demanded the immediate arrest of Bandi Sai Bhageerath, son of Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar, in connection with an alleged sexual assault case involving a minor girl in Hyderabad. Addressing a press conference here on Wednesday, federation leaders Orsu Bharati and Panchadarla Durgamba alleged that although a case had been registered under the POCSO Act at the Pet Basheerabad police station on May 8, the accused had not yet been arrested. Expressing concern over what they described as delays in police action and attempts to weaken the case, the leaders questioned why the accused had not been taken into custody several days after the registration of the FIR. They also alleged that the authorities were adopting a “dilatory approach” by citing the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT). Ms. Durgamba alleged that influential persons often received preferential treatment under the law, while ordinary citizens were subjected to stricter enforcement. She urged the Telangana police to act swiftly and ensure justice for the victim. The federation leaders also demanded that Mr. Sanjay Kumar resign from the Union Cabinet until the completion of the investigation. They urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to order a comprehensive inquiry into the allegations. The women’s organisation further sought fast-track court proceedings and stronger laws to ensure stringent punishment for crimes against women and children. Published - May 13, 2026 08:07 pm IST