Date: August 12, 2024

No Respite for Kavitha: Supreme Court Delays Bail Decision

Kavitha Kalvakuntla’s Extended Custody

Kavitha Kalvakuntla, BRS MLC and daughter of former Telangana CM KCR, has been in custody for nearly five months. She was arrested on March 15th in Hyderabad. The arrest is linked to corruption and money laundering cases involving the Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22. Both the CBI and ED accuse her of being a key conspirator in the now-scrapped policy.

High Court Denies Bail, Kavitha Appeals to Supreme Court

After the High Court denied her bail, labeling her a primary conspirator, Kavitha turned to the Supreme Court. She cited the bail granted to Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal and AAP leader Manish Sisodia, seeking similar relief.

Supreme Court Seeks Responses from CBI and ED

On Monday, the Supreme Court did not grant bail immediately. Instead, justices B R Gavai and K V Viswanathan requested responses from the CBI and ED. Despite senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi arguing that Kavitha deserves bail, the court delayed its decision.

Advocate Rohatgi emphasized that Kavitha has been in custody for an extended period, and with the chargesheet and prosecution complaint already filed by the investigating agencies, her continued detention may not be necessary. Despite these arguments, the Supreme Court’s cautious approach suggests that the case is far from straightforward.

Kavitha Kalvakuntla’s Wait Continues

As the Supreme Court awaits more input from the agencies, Kavitha’s wait continues. She will remain in custody as the court considers the responses from the CBI and ED.

Comparison with Kejriwal and Sisodia’s Bail

Kavitha’s legal team emphasized the bail granted to Kejriwal and Sisodia in the same case. However, the court’s request for further information suggests that her case may face different scrutiny.

Implications for BRS and Telangana Politics

Kavitha’s continued custody and the legal battle she faces have broader implications for the BRS and Telangana politics. As a key figure in the party and the daughter of KCR, her legal troubles could impact the party’s image and strategy, especially with upcoming elections on the horizon. The case also raises questions about the political dynamics between the BRS and the central government, particularly in how legal proceedings intersect with political rivalries.