Chandrababu Naidu
In a session before the Supreme Court on Monday, the Andhra Pradesh (AP) government highlighted that the family of former Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is allegedly threatening action against officers providing statements against him in ongoing criminal cases [State of Andhra Pradesh vs Nara Chandra Babu Naidu].
Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi presented this assertion on behalf of the Andhra Pradesh government today before a bench comprising Justices Bela M Trivedi and Pankaj Mithal.
Rohatgi expressed apprehension that these purported threats were being issued to officials in light of the impending State elections.
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“The conduct exhibited by the accused’s family is concerning. They are openly declaring that once in power, they will retaliate against all officers who have given statements (against them). They claim to have maintained a record of such statements… These intimidating remarks are made just before the polls.”
The Court granted two weeks for Naidu to respond to these allegations, with an additional week provided for the State government to submit a rejoinder to Naidu’s reply.
The next hearing is scheduled for March 19.
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The bench deliberated on a petition filed by the State of Andhra Pradesh against the November 3 decision of the Andhra Pradesh High Court to grant Naidu bail in the skill development program scam case.
Last November, the Supreme Court overturned a directive by the High Court, allowing the former Chief Minister to participate in public rallies and meetings as a condition of bail.
However, it maintained the High Court’s condition barring the Telegu Desam Party (TDP) leader from making public remarks or engaging with the media about the case.
Representing the State of Andhra Pradesh before the apex court were Senior Advocates Mukul Rohatgi and Ranjit Kumar.
Senior Advocates Harish Salve and Sidharth Luthra appeared on behalf of Naidu.
