Fri Dec 20 12:00:00 UTC 2024: **Telangana High Court Grants KTR Interim Relief in Formula E Case**
HYDERABAD, TELANGANA – The Telangana High Court has granted interim relief to K.T. Rama Rao (KTR), working president of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), in a case related to the Formula E car racing event. The court ordered a stay on KTR’s arrest until December 30th, while adjourning the case’s next hearing to December 27th. However, the court clarified that the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) can continue its investigation and summon anyone for questioning. The ACB has been instructed to file a counter-affidavit.
KTR had filed a lunch motion petition seeking the dismissal of the case filed against him by the ACB. Arguments were presented before Justice Shravan’s bench, after which the interim order was issued. KTR’s legal team, led by Supreme Court senior advocate Sundaram, argued that the ACB had no jurisdiction in a matter concerning alleged violations of the election code of conduct, which falls under the Election Commission’s purview. They also contested the applicability of the Prevention of Corruption Act (PCA) and questioned the timing and basis of the FIR.
The ACB, represented by Advocate General Sudarshan Reddy, maintained its case, highlighting the alleged irregularities in the disbursement of ₹55 crore to a foreign company without proper government approvals. The High Court posed several key questions during the hearing, including the specifics of the charges against KTR and examining the Governor’s approval for the case. The ACB provided a copy of the Governor’s consent to the court.
The ACB’s investigation stems from a complaint alleging financial irregularities in the Formula E race funding. The ED has also requested details of the case from the ACB. KTR, meanwhile, has stated he is not afraid and will face the legal proceedings. He also called for a sitting judge inquiry into the Outer Ring Road project.
First Piper 