KTR Faces Setback as High Court Allows ACB Probe to Continue
The Telangana High Court has dismissed the quash petition filed by BRS Working President K.T. Rama Rao (KTR). A copy of the court order has been made available, wherein Justice Lakshman pointed out several crucial aspects.
According to the order, it was mentioned that funds were transferred beyond the jurisdiction of the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) without proper approval from the state cabinet. The court opined that a probe should be conducted into these unauthorized financial transactions and stated that it is necessary to identify who benefited from these payments.
The court also noted that allegations of misuse of power were raised against KTR. It highlighted that the FIR registered in the case mentions abuse of official authority. Furthermore, the order revealed that there were accusations of transferring funds in violation of regulations, causing financial loss to the state treasury.
The court pointed out that there were claims suggesting that companies involved in the agreements received undue benefits. Based on these allegations, Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) cases were registered under various sections.
The High Court emphasized that it could exercise its power to quash an FIR only in specific circumstances, such as when an investigation is deemed unjust. It clarified that it does not intend to interfere with the powers of the police. The court further stated that it has no intention of conducting its own inquiry into the allegations made by the ACB.
During the proceedings, KTR’s legal counsel argued that ministers do not act as trustees of public funds. However, the High Court disagreed with this argument, stating that ministers are responsible for safeguarding public assets.
The court referred to several Supreme Court rulings on similar cases and stressed that ensuring good governance is a fundamental duty of ministers.
Also Read: Legal Blow to KTR as Quash Petition Dismissed by High Court