Chandrababu Naidu
The Andhra Pradesh High Court granted Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader N Chandrababu Naidu four weeks interim bail on medical grounds. He is required to undergo cataract surgery. There are restrictions on his media interaction and participation in campaign events. He must also provide a bail bond of ₹1 lakh and two similar sureties. The court cited a humanitarian perspective and concern for Naidu’s health for granting this temporary bail.
Naidu was ordered to provide details of his treatment and the hospital where he received medical care in a sealed cover to the Superintendent of the Central Prison upon his return to jail. The choice of the medical facility remains with the patient. The regular bail petition was scheduled for November 10.
Naidu has been in judicial custody in the Rajahmundry Central Jail since his arrest last month, which triggered political turmoil and led to clashes between TDP supporters and the police. TDP leaders criticized Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy and his government for what they viewed as a “witch hunt.”
Naidu’s son, Nara Lokesh, called for action to secure his father’s release and expose alleged corruption in the YSR Congress Party-led government.
Also Read: After Order to Release Cauvery Water to Tamil Nadu, Karnataka Expresses Inability to Comply
Last week, Naidu raised concerns about security lapses in his prison and requested better arrangements in line with his Z-Plus category security cover.
On another note, a senior TDP member announced that the party would not contest the November 30 election in Telangana. The TDP had some support in the state but lost elected members to the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi. This decision was influenced by dissatisfaction with the lack of condemnation of Naidu’s arrest and restrictions on showing support in the Hitech City area.
Also Read: Opposition Leaders Allege iPhone Hacking Attempt, Apple Sources Respond
Telangana’s election is scheduled for November 30, with results on December 3. Additionally, Naidu has been named as Accused No. 3 in a second case related to the alleged illegal licensing of liquor companies by the previous government.
