Supreme Court Deliberates on Transfer of Andhra Pradesh CM’s Cash-for-Vote Trial

The Supreme Court evaluates a plea to transfer Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy's 2015 cash-for-vote trial outside Telangana, stressing that sensitivity and restraint are necessary for high office holders. It examines the implications of the CM’s controversial statements and concerns about undue influence on the trial process.

The Supreme Court on Monday emphasized the need for sensitivity and restraint when individuals holding high office are involved in legal matters. This assertion comes as the top court evaluates a plea to transfer the trial of the 2015 cash-for-vote case against Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy outside the state.

Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan underscored that someone in a significant position should exhibit restraint. The bench reviewed Revanth Reddy's controversial statements questioning the court's decision to grant bail to K Kavitha, which led to an apology from the CM. Senior Advocate Aryama Sundaram, representing the petitioners, highlighted that no investigative officers had been examined in the case, stressing potential influence from the CM.

Senior Advocate Rohatgi, defending Reddy, cited that 25 witnesses had already been examined, while Sundaram countered that they were not material witnesses. The court also addressed concerns about lowered judicial dignity due to circulated posters. The Supreme Court insisted on mutual respect among institutions and warned that the trial might be relocated if respect for judicial processes is not maintained.

The plea seeks a trial transfer due to possible undue influence by the Telangana CM, who holds both the Chief and Home Minister portfolios. Filed by Guntakandla Reddy, it argues that witnesses might be coerced to change their testimony under pressure.

The bench will await a reply from the CM within two weeks as they deliberate further on this significant case involving potential political manipulation.

(With inputs from agencies.)