Accused In 'Cash-For-Vote' Case Seeks Action Against Chandrababu Naidu, Revanth Reddy

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy

A correspondence allegedly authored by Jerusalem Matthayya, who claims to be both an accused and victim in the 'Cash-for-Vote' scandal, has directly implicated and called for action against the Chief Ministers of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Chandrababu Naidu and Revanth Reddy respectively.

The document, dated September 23, 2025, was reportedly forwarded to India's Supreme Court by Matthayya. It advocates for a new, comprehensive investigation and urges for the prohibition of two prominent political organizations - the TDP and the Congress.

In his self-identification as both "accused and victim" in the controversy, Matthayya alleges that his activities were conducted under the direction of then-Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and his colleague, current Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy.

The letter claims that in 2016, Matthayya received instructions to offer a Rs 5 crore bribe to a TRS MLA to secure their vote in the Legislative Council elections.

The correspondence explicitly petitions the Supreme Court to investigate Chandrababu Naidu, his son Lokesh Naidu, TDP officials, and various law enforcement and intelligence personnel, holding them responsible for their alleged participation in the conspiracy.

It requests the removal of all implicated individuals, including Revanth Reddy, from their governmental positions to ensure an impartial and thorough investigation.

The letter further appeals to the Supreme Court to directly oversee the new inquiry, contending that it should not be managed by either the Telangana or Andhra Pradesh High Courts.

Additionally, it calls for the prohibition of the TDP and Congress parties from participating in future elections and the dissolution of state governments currently under their control, citing their alleged attempts to undermine democratic processes.

The 'Cash-for-Vote' controversy from 2015 centered on an alleged bribery attempt by then-TDP MLA Revanth Reddy to secure a vote from a nominated MLA in the Telangana Legislative Council elections. Audio recordings allegedly featuring Chandrababu Naidu's voice were also leaked, though formal charges against him were never filed.

Matthayya's letter, submitted one day after the Supreme Court reserved its judgment on a related petition, could potentially serve as a significant development in the case.