Date: January 09, 2025
KTR Appears Before ACB: Tense Atmosphere in Telangana
The Working President of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) and former Telangana Minister, K.T. Rama Rao (KTR), appeared before the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) for an inquiry on Thursday morning. The inquiry is part of a case alleging the misappropriation of public funds linked to the Formula E car racing event.
KTR has been named as Accused No. 1 (A1) in the case, while senior IAS officer Arvind Kumar is named as Accused No. 2 (A2) and former Chief Engineer of HUDA, B.L.N. Reddy, as Accused No. 3 (A3).
Legal Battle and High Court Ruling in ACB
KTR had previously agreed to attend the inquiry after being served a notice by the ACB. However, during an earlier attempt, he left the ACB office as his lawyer was denied entry into the inquiry room.
In response, KTR approached the Telangana High Court to challenge the ACB’s decision. The court ruled that while lawyers could not accompany the accused into the inquiry room, they could remain outside to supervise the process. The court also assured KTR that he could approach the judiciary again if any issues arose during the inquiry.
Following the court’s directive, KTR appeared for the inquiry on Thursday, accompanied by his lawyer, Ramachandra Rao. The ACB formed a three-member officer panel to conduct the inquiry, which is being overseen by ACB Director Tarun Joshi.
Speculations and Tensions Mount
Strong speculations are circulating that KTR could face arrest following the inquiry. This possibility has created significant unease within the BRS party ranks. Early Thursday morning, a large gathering of BRS supporters assembled at KTR’s residence, expressing solidarity and concern.
When KTR departed for the ACB office, a massive convoy of party supporters followed his car, amplifying the tense atmosphere in Hyderabad. The potential arrest of KTR has sparked discussions about large-scale protests by BRS workers, should such an event unfold.
What’s Next for KTR and BRS?
The outcome of the inquiry is eagerly awaited. If KTR is allowed to return home, it will bring relief to BRS leaders and supporters. However, in the event of an arrest, the political climate in Telangana could escalate, with protests and demonstrations likely to follow.
The inquiry into the Formula E case has not only put KTR in the spotlight but has also raised questions about the transparency and governance within the state administration.