Telangana High Court Issues Notices in Defamation Cases Involving Chief Minister
The Telangana High Court has taken a significant step in a high-profile legal battle, issuing notices to BRS leader and former Bhupalpally MLA Gandra Venkata Ramana Reddy. This action comes in response to criminal petitions filed by Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, who is seeking the quashing of two cases registered against him in 2023.
Court Proceedings and Adjournment
Justice K Sujana presided over the hearing and declined the petitioner's request for a stay on all further proceedings, including his appearance before the trial court. The court has adjourned the petitions to February 21 for further hearing, while the cases are scheduled to come up before the lower court on February 19.
Background of the Cases
The cases originated when Revanth Reddy was serving as the TPCC president and MP from Malkajgiri. They were filed based on complaints lodged by the BRS leader, who alleged that the Congress leader had made defamatory and demeaning remarks against him. The allegations included serious claims that the complainant was involved in land grabbing, petrol and sand pilferage, and misappropriation of Singareni funds.
Legal Arguments and Allegations
According to the petitions, the cases were registered at Mogulapally and Bhupalpally police stations in Jayashankar Bhupalapally district. Appearing for the chief minister, the counsel argued that the contents of both complaints were identical, suggesting a mala fide intent and a deliberate attempt to harass the petitioner. The court was urged to quash the proceedings on this ground, highlighting concerns over potential abuse of legal processes.
The legal developments underscore ongoing political tensions in Telangana, with implications for judicial accountability and the handling of defamation cases involving public figures. Further hearings are awaited to determine the outcome of these petitions.
