Date: September 11, 2024

Jagan Receives Passport Extension, But With Conditions

YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, the former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, faced a setback when he lost the recent election, leading to the submission of his diplomatic passport. Afterward, he requested a regular 5-year passport for international travel, particularly to fly to London. Dissatisfied with the court’s decision, Jagan canceled his trip and took the case to the AP High Court, seeking a longer passport tenure.

AP High Court’s Verdict: A Partial Win for Jagan

After a prolonged hearing, the AP High Court has finally issued a verdict in Jagan’s favor. The court approved his request for a 5-year passport, which was his original plea. This development is a relief for the ex-CM as he can now receive a passport valid for five years. However, the court attached certain conditions to this approval.

Conditions for the Passport Extension

Despite winning his appeal, Jagan is still required to follow a few key legal conditions. The AP High Court upheld the lower court’s order, which mandates that Jagan must personally visit the Vijayawada Special Court to submit a surety bond worth Rs 20,000.

While Jagan’s legal team tried to argue for an exemption from appearing in person to submit the surety, the AP High Court rejected this request. As per the new order, Jagan has no choice but to follow this condition to receive the 5-year passport.

No Exemption from Surety Submission

Jagan’s lawyers had hoped to avoid the personal appearance requirement, citing his political stature and other pressing engagements. However, the court held firm on its earlier decision, ensuring that Jagan must comply with the legal formalities set by the lower court.

The court’s decision has allowed Jagan the opportunity to travel internationally, but only after following these legal procedures. His next step would be to comply with the surety condition to receive the 5-year passport extension.