Two Telangana Journalists Arrested Over Alleged Defamatory Video Against CM Revanth Reddy

On March 12, 2025, Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police arrested two journalists associated with Pulse Digital News Network for allegedly producing and disseminating a defamatory video targeting Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy. The arrested individuals are Revathi Pogadadanda, the managing director of the YouTube channel, and employee Tanvi Yadav, also known as Bandi Sandhya.The contentious video was reportedly filmed at the headquarters of the opposition Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) party. Authorities claim that the content was intended to malign the reputation of the Chief Minister and disseminate false information about the state leadership.These arrests have sparked a debate over press freedom in Telangana. Critics argue that the detentions represent an attempt to suppress dissenting voices and curtail journalistic independence. Supporters of the arrests contend that the dissemination of defamatory content necessitates accountability to maintain public trust and uphold the dignity of public offices.The arrests of Pogadadanda and Yadav have intensified discussions about the balance between safeguarding reputations and protecting freedom of the press. As the situation unfolds, it underscores the challenges faced by journalists in Telangana and raises questions about the state’s commitment to upholding democratic principles.