The Supreme Court, on Friday, issued a notice to A. Revanth Reddy, the Chief Minister of Telangana, and other concerned parties. This move came in response to a plea requesting the transfer of the criminal trial related to the 2015 cash-for-vote case from Telangana to Bhopal. Let’s delve into the details of this significant development.
Key Highlights of the Supreme Court Notice
The Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices BR Gavai and Sandeep Mehta, acknowledged the plea and scheduled it for hearing after a span of four weeks. Advocate Siddharth Dave, representing the petitioners, emphasized that due to Revanth Reddy’s dual role as the Chief Minister and the Home Minister, a fair trial couldn’t be expected in Telangana.
Grounds for Transfer
The notice was issued based on a plea filed by Guntakandla Jagadish Reddy, a present BRS MLA, and three others. They sought the transfer of the case from Telangana, citing concerns over impartiality and fairness in the trial process. The petitioners highlighted Reddy’s 88 pending cases and alleged threats against state police officials, underscoring the necessity for a neutral venue to ensure justice.
Significance of the Plea
Advocate on Record P. Mohith Rao filed the plea, emphasizing the need for a transparent legal process. The petitioners underscored the importance of conducting the trial in a location free from bias or external influence to uphold the sanctity of the judicial system.
Background of the Case
On May 31, 2015, Revanth Reddy, then associated with the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), was apprehended by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB). This incident occurred while he allegedly attempted to offer a bribe of Rs 50 lakh to Elvis Stephenson, a nominated MLA, to secure support for the TDP nominee Vem Narendar Reddy in the Legislative Council elections.
Ongoing Legal Challenges
Another petition filed by Revanth Reddy challenges the order of the High Court dated June 1, 2021. The High Court’s decision dismissed his plea questioning the jurisdiction of the Special ACB court to oversee the trial. This petition is currently pending before another bench of the Supreme Court, awaiting further deliberation.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s notice to Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and the government underscores the gravity of the situation surrounding the cash-for-vote case. As legal proceedings unfold, the pursuit of justice remains paramount, emphasizing the foundational principles of transparency, accountability, and fairness within the judicial framework. Stay tuned for updates on this evolving legal saga.
