Hyderabad.20.12.2024: The Telangana High Court has granted interim relief to Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president KT Rama Rao (KTR) in the ongoing KTR Formula E case. The court directed that KTR cannot be arrested until December 30 in the corruption case linked to the Formula E race held in Hyderabad.
Allegations and Legal Proceedings
The case revolves around allegations of misuse of government funds during the Formula E event in Hyderabad. The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) registered an FIR under the Prevention of Corruption Act and sections of the Indian Penal Code. The FIR accuses KTR of directing the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority to pay Rs 55 crore to a foreign company, allegedly violating Reserve Bank of India guidelines.
KTR, represented by advocate CS Sundaram, has denied the allegations, claiming they are politically motivated. Advocate Sundaram argued that the case lacks evidence of criminal misconduct and primarily involves procedural lapses.
Court Observations
Justice Shravan Kumar, while granting the interim relief, allowed the investigation to proceed and scheduled the next hearing for December 30. The court emphasized the need for thorough scrutiny before any action is taken.
Advocate Sundaram pointed out that the FIR was registered 14 months after the event without a preliminary inquiry, questioning its legitimacy. He also highlighted that KTR’s actions during the Formula E event aimed to ensure its success.
KTR’s Response
KTR has repeatedly denied the allegations, emphasizing transparency in all transactions related to the Formula E event. He criticized the opposition for using the case as a political tool and reaffirmed his commitment to accountability.
Future Developments
The Enforcement Directorate is reportedly preparing to register a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The next hearing on December 30 will be crucial in determining the case’s direction.
