Vijayawada:Special Chief Secretary (Revenue) R.P. Sisodia submitted a report to the State government on Monday concerning the fire at the Madanapalle Sub-Collector’s office last week. The report revealed that three officials— the current Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO) of Madanapalle, a former RDO, and a senior assistant— have been suspended for negligence and irregularities. Sisodia stated unequivocally that the fire was a case of arson.
Sisodia, who spent three days at the incident site to conduct the inquiry, confirmed that an electrical short circuit was ruled out as the cause of the fire. He noted that 1,400 acres of dotted lands had been converted into freehold, which was unusual and highlighted potential discrepancies. Preliminary findings suggested a possible conspiracy, and numerous complaints had been made regarding forged signatures.
In his investigation, Sisodia observed signs indicative of deliberate arson, including the presence of seven liters of motor oil, mosquito incense sticks, and the fact that the three suspended officials were working late on the night of the incident.
Echoing Sisodia’s conclusions, Kurnool Range DIG Koya Praveen described the fire as part of a larger conspiracy and indicated that a thorough investigation was underway. Forensic experts are being consulted, and senior assistant Gautam Teja is considered a prime suspect.
Following a review meeting on the Revenue Department, Minister for Revenue Anagani Satyaprasad emphasized that those found guilty in the Madanapalle fire incident would face strict legal action, regardless of their status. He stated, “Whether it involves Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy (senior YSRC leader and former minister) or Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy (YSRC president and former Chief Minister), action will be taken if they are found to be involved in the incident.”