Government's Reputation Matters More, Will Set Aside Even My Children If Needed: Home Minister Anitha

Andhra Pradesh Home Minister Anitha responded to the dismissal of her private personal assistant (PA), Jagadish, stating that if the reputation of the government or the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) is at stake, she would not hesitate to even set aside her own children. Speaking about the recent developments, she clarified her stance on the removal of Jagadish from his role.

During an impromptu inspection yesterday at the Penna Block near Visakhapatnam Central Jail, following allegations of mobile phones being found near the premises and jail staff supplying marijuana to inmates, Home Minister Anitha reviewed several sections of the prison.

Addressing reporters, Anitha confirmed that Jagadish had been employed as her private PA with a salary paid from her personal funds. However, after receiving allegations against him, she issued a warning. When complaints persisted, she decided to dismiss him from service ten days ago.

Commenting on the condition of jails under the previous YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) government, she alleged that security, management, and staff transfers in prisons have been neglected. She criticized the administration, claiming that some corrupt officials and staff have remained in the same posts for over five years in various jails and police stations across the state.

Anitha revealed that a small marijuana plant was discovered near the Narmada Block during the inspection. She directed the Director General of Police (DGP) to install CCTV cameras throughout the jail to ensure that all activities are monitored closely. On the issue of mobile phones found inside the prison, she stated that investigations are underway to determine which numbers were used and whom the inmates contacted. Additionally, she announced that inmates involved in marijuana cases would be transferred to Rajamahendravaram Jail.