The arrest and judicial remand of Telugu film comedian and writer Posani Krishna Murali, more than three months after he announced his retirement from politics, has triggered intense discussions in Andhra Pradesh's political circles.
Posani had made serious, abusive, and vulgar remarks against TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu, his son Nara Lokesh, and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan during his press conferences while he was part of the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP).
Given the severity of his comments, many expected that he would face legal action soon after the TDP-led coalition came to power in June last year.
In particular, Jana Sena Party (JSP) cadres were eager for his arrest, as he had made derogatory remarks against party chief Pawan Kalyan.
However, for unknown reasons, the top leaders in the government remained silent, leading to speculation that Posani had used his connections in the film industry to avoid a political backlash.
Reports suggest that a popular Tollywood director, who is close to the Naidu family, assured Posani that he could help him escape the crisis, provided that he publicly withdrew his statements.
Additionally, Posani’s caste affiliations may have also played a role in the government’s reluctance to take action against him.
Following this, Posani held a press conference in November, where he retracted his previous comments and announced his retirement from active politics, stating that he intended to focus on his family and stay away from controversies.
However, in the last week of February, several cases were suddenly registered against him in different police stations, and soon after, he was arrested from his Hyderabad residence. He is now in judicial remand at Rajampet jail.
So, what triggered this sudden turn of events?
According to sources, a media baron who heads a leading Telugu newspaper and television channel—both known for their pro-TDP stance—reportedly pressured the government to take action against Posani.
Apparently, this media mogul was deeply offended by Posani’s abusive and derogatory statements against his media house and its founder.
Although he initially waited for the Naidu government to act, the lack of action reportedly led him to use his influence to ensure Posani was put behind bars, sources said.