In a significant turn of events, the Andhra Pradesh High Court has granted regular bail to Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader Chandrababu Naidu in connection with the alleged ₹371 crore Skill Development Corporation scam case. This decision marks a shift from his earlier interim medical bail, securing his freedom from returning to jail as initially ordered for November 28.
Naidu, the former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, had been under arrest for over two months, previously granted interim medical bail for a four-week period to undergo cataract surgery on his right eye.
The recent verdict not only exempts Naidu from immediate incarceration but also permits his active participation in political engagements. However, this clearance arrives after the imminent Telangana elections scheduled for November 30, rendering his participation in the current polls unfeasible.
Despite missing the election window, Naidu is anticipated to address his arrest, vehemently protesting against his adversaries, especially the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi. His release on medical bail had seen him expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support received from his party members, supporters, and sympathizers across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and globally.
The TDP had refrained from contesting the Telangana election owing to Naidu’s incarceration. A senior party leader revealed that the decision was made in recognition of the challenges posed by Naidu’s absence in campaigning, necessitating an explanation to the cadre about the circumstances.
Naidu’s influence in Telangana, once reflected in 15 seats during the 2014 Assembly election and two seats in 2018, faced setbacks as the elected MLAs shifted loyalty to the ruling party.
Amidst these developments, Naidu’s supporters in Telangana expressed discontent with the Bharat Rashtra Samithi for its silence on his arrest and the prohibition of a supportive protest in the Hitech City area.
Naidu’s arrest had triggered political upheaval, leading to vehement condemnations of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy’s government for alleged persecution. His son, Nara Lokesh, raised the ante by advocating for drastic measures to secure his father’s release and expose what he termed the “corruption” within Andhra Pradesh’s ruling YSR Congress Party.
The Telangana election outcome, set for declaration on December 3, now holds increased curiosity amid the evolving political landscape surrounding Naidu’s legal battles.
Sources By Agencies
