A shocking incident has come to light from Andhra Pradesh’s Tirupati district. A Dalit B.Tech student was assaulted. The boy allegedly was kidnapped and subjected to brutal torture by a group of junior students and known criminals. The assault was reportedly motivated by caste-based hatred. The incident took place in the early hours of May 15 near Chandragiri.

The victim, A. James, is a 22-year-old final-year engineering student from Sri Vidya Niketan College. He is a native of Reddypalem village in Nellore district. The video of the incident was released recounting the horrific abuse he endured. The incident has triggered widespread condemnation on social media platforms as the video went viral.

According to James, the attack was orchestrated by his junior, Yashwanth Naidu. Naidu had previously used caste slurs against James. Despite James’ repeated requests for respectful conduct, the harassment escalated.

What happened?

James was visiting his brother-in-law near Mangalam on May 15’ when he was allegedly abducted. The abduction was done by Yashwanth and his associates. This includes rowdy-sheeters Rupesh, Jagga, Kiran, Lalith, Sai Gowda, and others.

James along with his friend, Sai Reddy, were forcibly taken on motorcycles. Both were threatened with death and confined in Room No. 209 of the Elite Park Hotel. The hotel was located in Srinivasapuram and a PG hostel near SVCE College.

The 36-hour confinement

Both the victims were subjected to inhuman treatment in a 36-hour confinement. According to reports James was beaten with hockey sticks, iron rods, and a knuckle rod. The victims were slashed with knives on the head, and physically restrained.

The attackers reportedly stuffed underwear in their mouths to muffle the screams. They also forced him to drink urine, and urinated on him. Both James and his friend sustained multiple injuries. James suffered severe trauma near his right eye. The two managed to escape while being taken back to Tirupati and later sought medical attention.

James’ statement

James, in a video statement, alleged that he was targeted for being a Dalit. “My name is James. I study at Vidya Niketan College. I was on my way to meet my cousin when a group of men, known by names like KT Road Katti, Naani, Jagga, and a few others, stopped me and took me to a room,” he said.

In the video he further stated, “They brutally beat me, as you can see from my face. I was locked up and physically assaulted for three to four days. When I went to the police station, they told me to be careful, but no proper action has been taken.”

Police negligence

Following the incident, James approached the Tiruchanur Police Station to file a complaint. Despite the gravity of the incident, the initial police response was allegedly negligent. The officers reportedly refused to register the case initially. The police cited political pressure and fear of retaliation.

The victim further claimed that the police forced him to alter his complaint, removing the names of key accused individuals. It was only after he threatened to kill himself that the police formally registered a formal complaint.

A case under Crime Number 250/2025, citing multiple offences under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita was registered. This includes kidnapping, wrongful confinement, grievous hurt, criminal intimidation, and caste-based atrocity provisions under Section 3(5) of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy reacts

YSR Congress Party president and former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy condemned the attack. He described it as part of a troubling pattern of caste-based violence and political interference in law enforcement.

“There is no safety for Dalits in the state as the law and order situation has been deteriorating. The incident shows the growing attacks on Dalits and the failing law and order situation in the state, which is not providing protection to weaker sections and those who raise their voice against injustice,” he posted on X.

Investigation underway

Meanwhile, the Tiruchanur police have since confirmed that an investigation is underway and promised strict action against all involved individuals. Efforts are being made to identify the remaining accused. On the other hand, James remains hospitalized in Nellore, where he is receiving treatment for his injuries.