Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday sternly reprimanded Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy for his controversial remarks regarding the recent bail granted to BRS leader K Kavitha in the Delhi liquor policy case. Reddy had insinuated that the bail was a result of a “deal” between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), formerly led by ex-Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao.
A three-judge bench comprising Justices BR Gavai, PK Mishra, and KV Viswanathan expressed serious concern over the Chief Minister’s statements during a hearing on a separate matter—the transfer of the 2015 cash-for-votes case against Reddy to Madhya Pradesh. The petitioners in that case argued that Reddy could potentially influence witnesses and tamper with evidence if the trial remained in Telangana.
At the onset of the hearing, the court appeared disinclined to transfer the case, citing “complete faith” in its colleagues within the state judiciary. However, the tone of the proceedings took a sharp turn when the bench became aware of Reddy’s public remarks.
Justice Gavai, visibly perturbed, addressed the court, stating, “Should a person holding a constitutional post make such statements? There should be mutual respect between politicians and the judiciary… How can anyone suggest that we pass orders for political reasons?” He further warned, “If you do not respect us, then we will consider moving your trial elsewhere.”
The court emphasized the importance of maintaining the independence of the judiciary, stressing that its decisions are made based on conscience and the oath of office, free from any political influence.
Regarding the bail granted to K Kavitha, who is the daughter of former Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, the Supreme Court noted that the investigation was complete and that her continued custody was unnecessary. “She has been in jail for five months, and the likelihood of a trial in the near future is impossible,” the bench stated.
Reddy’s remarks, which suggested that the bail was part of a political arrangement between BRS and BJP, were sharply criticized by the court. The bench underscored that such claims should not serve as grounds for transferring the trial and reiterated its commitment to upholding judicial integrity.
The court has adjourned the petition seeking to shift the trial to Monday, maintaining that it will not close the matter yet. “We always say we will not interfere in the jurisdiction of the legislature, and the same is expected of them too,” the court concluded.
