A disturbing video has surfaced online showing Basava Venkata Ramana, founder of the private coaching institute “Indian Army Calling,” brutally beating a student in Andhra Pradesh. The video, which has gone viral, has triggered outrage across social media and sparked strong reactions from authorities and the public alike.
Video Depicts Harrowing Abuse Of Students
The video captures Ramana whipping a student with a belt as the boy cries and tries to shield himself. In the background, two more students are seen kneeling on the floor, visibly terrified. A man in a black T-shirt watches the abuse silently, further intensifying the scene’s grimness. According to reports, the video dates back to December last year, but it has only recently come to light, raising serious concerns about the safety and environment in private coaching institutions.
Andhra Minister Nara Lokesh Demands Action
Reacting to the video, Andhra Pradesh Human Resources Minister Nara Lokesh condemned the incident, labeling such acts of aggression as “unwarranted.” Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Lokesh assured the public that strict action would be taken against the accused. “The state and Srikakulam district police will ensure appropriate legal action against those responsible,” Lokesh wrote, calling for swift justice to protect students’ rights.
Police Begin Investigation Following Minister’s Statement
The Andhra Pradesh Police promptly responded to the minister’s statement, confirming that a team had been dispatched to record the victim’s statement. The police clarified that once the victim’s testimony is obtained, a formal case would be filed against Ramana under relevant sections of the law. They also acknowledged that the viral video provided crucial evidence in the ongoing investigation.
Allegations Of Exploitation And Blackmail Surface
Beyond the physical abuse, Ramana faces serious allegations of exploitation and blackmail. Members of the opposition Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) have accused Ramana of collecting exorbitant amounts—between ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh—from students by falsely promising them guaranteed jobs in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The allegations don’t stop there. According to YSRCP leaders, Ramana installed secret cameras in women’s rooms at the coaching institute and used the footage to blackmail and harass them. These shocking claims have prompted demands for a broader investigation into Ramana’s activities and his alleged misuse of power.
Political Links Add Fuel To The Controversy
YSRCP leaders further alleged that Ramana has deep political connections that have shielded him from facing consequences in the past. They claim that he has ties to local MLA Gundu Shankar and Union Minister Rammohan Naidu, which have allowed him to evade scrutiny despite his questionable activities. Opposition leaders accused Ramana of leveraging his political clout to extort businesses, including malls and bars, by issuing threats.
Minister Lokesh Promises A Thorough Probe
Amid mounting allegations, Minister Lokesh reassured the public that no stone would be left unturned in the investigation. “The government is committed to ensuring justice for the victims and holding the accused accountable,” Lokesh stated, urging the police to expedite their inquiry and take immediate action to restore faith in the system.
Public Outrage Mounts Over The Incident
The release of the video has ignited widespread anger on social media, with netizens demanding stringent punishment for Ramana. Many have expressed their dismay at the lack of oversight in private coaching institutions, which often operate without proper regulation. The incident has also raised questions about the state’s role in ensuring the safety and welfare of students in such facilities.
Victim’s Statement Crucial To Legal Proceedings
The police emphasized the importance of the victim’s statement in building a strong case against Ramana. A senior police official confirmed that the student featured in the video has been identified and a team has been sent to record his testimony. “We are committed to ensuring justice is served. The victim’s cooperation is essential for the investigation,” the official said.
Calls For Stricter Regulations On Private Institutes
The incident has sparked a debate about the need for stricter regulations and monitoring of private coaching institutes. Activists and education experts have called for mandatory inspections and licensing requirements to prevent such incidents in the future. “The government must implement stringent policies to ensure that no child faces abuse or exploitation under the guise of education,” said a social activist.
Police Investigating Allegations Of Financial Fraud
In addition to the abuse allegations, the police are also probing claims of financial fraud against Ramana. Sources revealed that several students had paid hefty sums to the institute, lured by promises of job placements in the armed forces. However, most of these promises were never fulfilled, leaving students and their families in financial distress.
Opposition Demands Accountability From Government
The opposition YSRCP has criticized the state government for failing to prevent such incidents and demanded immediate accountability. “This shocking case highlights the coalition government’s failure to curb such individuals, putting public safety at risk,” a YSRCP leader said, urging the government to take a tougher stance against corruption and abuse in the education sector.
Students And Parents Demand Justice
As the investigation unfolds, students and parents have called for swift action against Ramana and the implementation of safeguards to protect students from similar incidents. “We send our children to these institutions with the hope of securing a better future, not to face abuse and exploitation,” said a parent, voicing the collective sentiment of many.
Future Of Indian Army Calling Institute Uncertain
The revelations have cast a shadow over the future of Indian Army Calling Institute, which has been at the center of the controversy. Parents and students have called for its operations to be suspended pending a thorough investigation. “Institutions like these tarnish the reputation of the entire education system,” said an education expert, calling for stricter scrutiny of coaching centers across the country.