Attacks on Reliance shops in AP after TV report of RIL role in YSR's copter crash - India News and Travel Times Provides India-centric and other News and Features

The Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) on Friday rejected a private news channel report about its a hand in the helicopter crash that killed former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy. In a statement, the RIL called the report as "false" and "malicious." On Thursday night, TV-5 channek telecasted a story based on a report on a Russian website, which alleged that RIL was partner in the conspiracy behind YSR’s chopper crash. The report led to a series of attacks on Reliance shops throughout the state. "We are shocked and outraged at the false, malicious, motivated and libelous news on TV-5 channel concerning the fatal mishap of Reddy's helicopter. We condemn, rebut and reject the allegation with the contempt it deserves," an RIL statement said. The RIL also alleged that it was the "dirty handiwork of our business rivals in cahoots with TV-5.” "This is also evident from the well coordinated attacks on RIL's personnel and establishments in Andhra Pradesh within minutes of the telecast by TV-5,” the statement said. The State Government deployed security personnel near the Reliance stores to control the situation, as protestors threw stones at the outlets and damaged property. "The channel has thrown all journalistic norms to the winds to malign the reputation of RIL which has made significant investments in Andhra Pradesh to promote the development of the state and the nation," it added. The RIL also threatened to file a criminal complaint against the channel and demanded the Centre and State Governments to initiate an immediate investigation into these "despicable" acts and bring the culprits to justice. Meanwhile the Andhra Pradesh police on Friday booked a case against TV 5 for airing the "baseless and malicious" report. Chief Minister K Rossaih held an emergency meeting with Home Minister Sabita Reddy and other senior police officials and appealed the people to maintain peace and harmony and not to believe in rumours.