The Supreme Court today dismissed appeals related to the 23-year-old case concerning the death of Telugu/Tamil actress Prathyushya. Gudipalli Siddhartha Reddy’s challenge to his conviction on charges of abetment to suicide was rejected, as was an appeal from Prathyushya’s mother, Sarojini Devi, alleging murder.
Supreme Court Findings
The Court determined that evidence overwhelmingly indicated death by poisoning, ruling out murder by strangulation. The bench, comprised of Justice Rajesh Bindal and Justice Manmohan, as well found no evidence to support allegations of rape against Reddy. The defense of accidental consumption of poison was rejected and the Court affirmed that Reddy’s abetment through the purchase of neurontone was established.
According to the facts presented, Prathyushya and Reddy were in a relationship opposed by Reddy’s parents. Both reportedly consumed poison, but Reddy survived. He was initially convicted of abetment to suicide and attempt to suicide, receiving a five-year sentence later reduced to two years by the Andhra Pradesh High Court in 2004.
Sarojini Devi also challenged the reduction in Reddy’s sentence, alleging her daughter had been raped and poisoned. The Court reviewed a postmortem report from Dr. B Muni Swamy, who had initially suggested death by strangulation, but noted the report was “unprofessional” and Dr. Swamy was not examined during the trial.
The Court stated, “…surviving partner in a mutual suicide pact is legally culpable.” Reddy has been directed to surrender within four weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges was Gudipalli Siddhartha Reddy convicted of?
Reddy was convicted on charges of abetment to suicide and attempt to suicide.
What did Prathyushya’s mother allege?
Sarojini Devi alleged that her daughter was raped and poisoned.
What was the Court’s ruling regarding the postmortem report by Dr. B Muni Swamy?
The Court found Dr. Muni Swamy’s postmortem report to be “unprofessional” and noted he was not examined during the trial.
As Reddy is directed to surrender within four weeks, it remains to be seen what further legal processes may unfold. Will the case be closed definitively with his surrender, or could further appeals be considered?
