Senior Journalist Kommineni Srinivasa Rao Arrested Amid Sakshi TV Debate Controversy
Journalist Arrested Over Controversial Debate on Sakshi TV
Kommineni Srinivasa Rao, a senior journalist with Sakshi Telugu Television, was arrested on Monday, June 9, 2025, by the Andhra Pradesh police following a controversy sparked by a debate on his channel. The debate, which was moderated by Srinivasa Rao, featured V.V.R. Krishnam Raju, a journalist and political analyst, and allegedly included derogatory comments about women from the Amaravati region.
Background and Arrest
The controversy led to multiple complaints being filed with the police from various sections and regions. A team of officials, led by Thullur DSP Murali Krishna, arrested Srinivasa Rao in Hyderabad. The police have also announced that they are searching for Krishnam Raju, who is currently absconding from his residence in Vijayawada.
Reaction from Andhra Pradesh Women’s Commission
The Andhra Pradesh Women’s Commission Chairperson, Rayapati Sailaja, has condemned the debate telecast on Sakshi TV, demanding an unconditional apology from the TV management to the entire state. The Commission has taken the issue seriously, citing that the channel targeted and insulted women. Sailaja announced that the Commission will write to the Press Council of India, the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, urging stringent action against Sakshi TV, including the potential cancellation of its license.
Public and Legal Repercussions
The Amaravati farmers, women, and Joint Action Committees have called for protests in front of Sakshi offices in Guntur, Vijayawada, and other locations in the capital region. The Women’s Commission will also pursue legal and police action against the Sakshi TV management, emphasizing that the action against Sakshi TV should serve as a deterrent to other news channels.
Future Developments
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the authorities will proceed with the case against Sakshi TV and its management. The arrest of Kommineni Srinivasa Rao and the impending action against Krishnam Raju highlight the seriousness with which the issue is being treated. The media fraternity and the public are keenly watching for further developments in this controversy.
