Guntur, February,27,2026: The father of Ayesha Meera on Friday renewed his demand for justice, 18 years after his daughter’s death, following the burial of her mortal remains in Tenali, Guntur district.
Speaking to the media after the burial, Iqbal said the family had been fighting for justice since the incident, but their efforts had not resulted in accountability so far.
Ayesha Meera’s final rites were held at the Kabristan in Tenali in accordance with Muslim religious customs. Family members and religious elders participated in the burial.
After the ceremony, Iqbal expressed anguish, questioning how the case could be considered closed without justice being delivered. He alleged that investigative agencies had failed to conduct a fair probe into the matter.
Iqbal stated that his struggle was aimed at ensuring that no other girl faces a similar situation. He alleged that evidence in the case was suppressed and said key individuals connected to the hostel where Ayesha Meera lived were not properly questioned.
He demanded that the hostel warden and students who were present on the night of the incident be examined, stating that they could provide crucial information about what happened between late night and early morning hours.
Iqbal also appealed to Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu to intervene and ensure justice, recalling assurances made earlier. He requested a judicial inquiry under the supervision of a High Court judge and sought questioning of officials associated with the case at the time.
He further urged the government to declare December 27 as Ayesha Meera remembrance day and to establish a trust aimed at protecting women and preventing such incidents.
Earlier in the day, the Central Bureau of Investigation handed over Ayesha Meera’s mortal remains to her parents, Shamshad Begum and Syed Iqbal Basha, following court orders.
Inside the court premises, the parents broke down emotionally, stating that despite an 18-year-long struggle, they had not received justice from the investigation agencies or the legal system. Their emotional statements moved several advocates present in the court.
After receiving the remains, the parents, along with advocates and representatives of civil rights groups, attempted to proceed in a rally towards Tenali. Police restricted the rally, citing lack of permission.
Following discussions, a short procession was allowed from the court premises to the Ambedkar statue, where slogans demanding justice were raised. Shamshad Begum became emotional, stating that despite constitutional guarantees, justice had eluded their family.
Later, under tight security and as per court directions, Ayesha Meera’s remains were transported to Tenali in an ambulance for the burial.
The family said they would continue their legal and public fight seeking accountability and justice in the Ayesha Meera case.
