In the Andhra Pradesh Liquor Scam case, the Supreme Court refused to grant bail to YSRCP MP Midhun Reddy, stating, “Nature of the allegations necessitates custodial interrogation. This Court cannot offer a shield in such circumstances.”
In a the ongoing Andhra Pradesh liquor scam, the Supreme Court denied anticipatory bail to YSR Congress Party MP P.V. Midhun Reddy allowing state authorities to proceed with his custodial interrogation.
A bench led by Justice J.B. Pardiwala and Justice R. Mahadevan dismissed Reddy’s plea, highlighting the seriousness of the allegations and the necessity for a thorough investigation.
The Court also rejected his request for interim protection or time to surrender.
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The bench observed,
“The nature of the allegations necessitates custodial interrogation. This Court cannot offer a shield in such circumstances,”
Reddy is a primary suspect in the extensive liquor scam in Andhra Pradesh, where officials allegedly altered procurement and distribution policies to benefit select private companies. Reportedly, bribe money was sent using fake companies and middlemen.
Investigators assert that Reddy was instrumental in decisions that created monopolistic advantages for specific liquor vendors during his period of influence.
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Earlier this year, a Look-Out Circular (LOC) was issued after he failed to respond to summons from the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the case.
Reasons for the Supreme Court’s Decision
- Gravity of Allegations: The Court acknowledged the systemic corruption involved, the substantial value of the transactions, and Reddy’s apparent evasiveness.
- Need for Custodial Interrogation: Authorities argued that Reddy’s custodial questioning is crucial to uncover the financial trail and the network of individuals involved.
- Consistency with High Court Rulings: The Andhra Pradesh High Court had previously denied bail for similar reasons, a stance the Supreme Court found no grounds to overturn.
Implications Politically and Legally
- Potential Immediate Arrest for Reddy: With bail denied, agencies can now detain and interrogate him without legal recourse.
- Message to the Political Sphere: This ruling sends a clear signal that public office does not provide immunity in cases of serious financial misconduct.
- Increased Momentum for Investigators: The SIT is expected to intensify its efforts, particularly as financial records and digital evidence come under scrutiny.
Case Title : P.V. Midhun Reddy v. State of Andhra Pradesh