KCR’s Legal Setback, High Court Dismisses Petition
BRS Chief KCR has encountered a significant setback in the High Court. His petition to dissolve the Electricity Commission was dismissed by the Chief Justice’s bench of the Telangana High Court.
High Court Rejects KCR’s Petition
KCR, the leader of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), faced a legal obstacle when the Telangana High Court dismissed his petition to disband the Electricity Commission. KCR argued that the Commission was operating unilaterally, a claim included in his petition. However, the High Court disagreed with the arguments presented by his legal team. In contrast, the Advocate General (AG) defended the Commission, stating it was functioning according to the regulations. The AG further asserted that KCR’s petition lacked grounds for consideration. Supporting the AG’s stance, the High Court clarified that the Commission could continue its inquiries.
Lack of Evidence Against Justice Narasimha Reddy
During the hearings, the High Court bench found no evidence to support claims that Justice Narasimha Reddy was biased. KCR had accused Justice Reddy of having a predetermined decision, supposedly influenced by a press meeting. However, the High Court demanded substantial proof rather than mere suspicion. The bench highlighted that KCR failed to substantiate his allegations against Justice Reddy. They noted that the Commission Chairman had not violated any laws in issuing notices to KCR, which were merely to gather information about power purchases and power plant constructions. Upon review, the court concluded that KCR’s petition lacked sufficient grounds for trial.
Media Conference Clarification
The court reviewed the conference’s content, emphasizing it was meant to update the media on the Commission’s proceedings. The statement regarding the power plant being under construction was factual and based on records. The court found no indication of bias or prejudgment from Justice Reddy. They underscored that any claims of bias need to be proven with evidence, which was not presented in this case.
Constitutional Office and Legal Procedures
Justice Reddy, holding a constitutional office and previously serving as Chief Justice, was deemed impartial by the court. The allegations of bias were solely based on a press conference statement, with no additional evidence provided to support claims of prejudice in the proceedings. Consequently, the court ruled that KCR’s bias claims were unproven, and the proceedings before Justice Reddy were not compromised.
Dismissal of Writ Petition
The court also addressed KCR’s contention that an order dated March 14, 2024, violated the 1952 Act, specifically Section 8B. The court rejected these arguments, affirming that the Notice issued was valid. The notice indicated that KCR had participated in the decision-making process, based on a review of relevant files. Thus, the court found no merit in KCR’s writ petition.
Final Verdict
After a thorough analysis, the court found no substance in KCR’s petition and dismissed it outright. No costs were ordered, and any pending miscellaneous petitions were also closed. Chief Justice Alok Aradhe concluded the proceedings, marking a decisive defeat for KCR in his legal battle against the Electricity Commission.
