Today, On 1st August, The Telangana High Court has dismissed a defamation plea filed against Chief Minister Revanth Reddy over his statements during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, where he was accused of making baseless remarks targeting the BJP.
Hyderabad: The Telangana High Court dismissed a defamation case against Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy related to remarks he made during the 2024 Lok Sabha election campaign.
A BJP leader had accused him of making false and unfounded claims against the party.
The High Court accepted Revanth Reddy’s petition to quash the proceedings pending before a Special Judicial First Class Magistrate (JFCM) for Excise cases, which is designated as the MP-MLA court.
Telangana BJP General Secretary Kasam Venkateshwarlu had previously lodged a complaint in the special court, alleging that during an election meeting in Bhadradri Kothagudem district on May 4, 2024, Revanth Reddy claimed that the BJP would alter the Constitution and eliminate reservations if they came to power.
The BJP leader argued that these statements were misleading and defamatory towards the party and its members.
In August 2024, the Special JFCM for Excise cases issued summons for Revanth Reddy to appear in person.
Subsequently, the Chief Minister approached the High Court to contest the complaint and seek a stay on the proceedings against him.
The High Court previously granted him exemption from appearing personally before the trial court.
The case involved alleged violations of Section 499 of the Indian Penal Code (defamation) and Section 125 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which addresses the promotion of enmity between communities in the context of elections.
Contending that the case is without merit, the Chief Minister requested the High Court to dismiss the proceedings and grant him exemption from compulsory court appearances.
The complainant accused the respondent of defaming them and breaching election conduct regulations.