Shootout at KBR Park: Unanswered questions!

Dawn brings eager morning walkers to the KBR Park in Jubilee Hills. Chirping birds and cool morning breeze greets them as they get into their stride. But, Wednesday's dawn wasn't like any other day.

The morning calm was shattered by sudden burst of gunfire. As Aurobindo Pharma vice-president Nityananda Reddy was got into his Audi, the assailant managed to heave himself into the car and pointed his AK 47 to him. But alert Nityananda Reddy and his brother Prasad Reddy surprised the assailant with their presence of mind and quick response. The assailant fled leaving his weapon behind.
But, this incident raises several questions.

* Was it a kidnap attempt? Was he a lone wolf kidnapper or did he have accomplices, who were waiting in the wings? Or did they develop cold feet on seeing quick reaction from Nityananda Reddy and his brother Prasad Reddy?

*  The assailant carried an AK 47. Was he a Maoist looking for massive ransom amount? Or was he a professional killer?

* Had he been a professional killer, he would not have wasted time demanding money? What was his possible aim?

* KBR Park is frequented by several VIPs, senior bureaucrats and even high-profile politicians. This attack raises questions about VIP security. That the assailant could fire 8 rounds at his target at a time when most VIPs are in and around the park is a cause for alarm.

* Nityananda Reddy claims that he has no enemies. What could be the possible reason for the attack.

A thorough investigation needs to be done to establish the motive of the assailant and his possible linkages. Also, the motive for the attack also needs to be established. The ugly gun culture in otherwise peaceful Hyderabad is for sure a cause for concern.