Is Former Andhra Minister Kakani Govardhan Reddy in Judicial Custody Over Illegal Mining?
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Synopsis
In a significant judicial development, former Andhra minister Kakani Govardhan Reddy has been remanded for 14 days over allegations of illegal quartz mining. The YSR Congress Party claims the charges are politically motivated, indicating a tumultuous political landscape in the state.
Key Takeaways
- Kakani Govardhan Reddy is in judicial custody for 14 days.
- He was arrested on charges of illegal quartz mining.
- The YSR Congress Party claims the charges are politically motivated.
- A lookout notice has been issued to prevent him from leaving the country.
- The case highlights ongoing political tensions in Andhra Pradesh.
Amaravati, May 26 (NationPress) A court in Andhra Pradesh's Nellore district has placed Kakani Govardhan Reddy, a former minister and leader of the YSR Congress Party, in judicial custody for 14 days concerning an illegal quartz mining investigation.
Kakani was apprehended in Bengaluru on Sunday and transferred to Nellore under tight security measures. Subsequently, he was taken to Venkatagiri for a court appearance.
Following the court's remand order, the YSRCP leader was relocated to Nellore Central Jail.
A complaint regarding unauthorized mineral extraction and illegal transportation was filed against Kakani in Nellore district back in February by the Mines and Geology Department.
Notices had previously been sent to him by the Nellore Rural Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), but he did not comply.
As the fourth accused in this case, the former minister sought anticipatory bail from both the High Court and the Supreme Court, but his requests were denied.
Last month, a lookout notice was issued to prevent Kakani Govardhan Reddy from exiting the country, and this notice has been disseminated to both airports and seaports.
There are serious allegations suggesting that during the YSRCP administration, Kakani was involved in the illegal mining of quartz in the Nellore district.
It has been claimed that illegal quartz mining persisted near Thoderu village in Podalakur mandal, despite a mica mining lease near Tatiparthi having expired.
In response to Kakani's arrest, the YSRCP has condemned the actions as politically motivated, asserting that the TDP-led coalition government is fabricating charges against him. They also raised concerns about potential human rights violations.
The YSRCP Legal Cell, headed by state president Manohar Reddy, accused authorities of unjustly targeting YSRCP leaders with unfounded charges, particularly against Kakani Govardhan Reddy, who faces fabricated claims despite the closure of the Rustum Mica Mines case.
New complaints have surfaced with non-bailable sections added to his case, complicating bail possibilities, even as the High Court granted bail to the main accused and two others. This intentional misuse of the law to detain Kakani under dubious pretenses is seen as a calculated effort to stifle political dissent, according to Manohar Reddy.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach this situation with balance. While the allegations against Kakani Govardhan Reddy raise serious legal concerns, the claims of political targeting by the YSR Congress Party cannot be overlooked. It’s essential to uphold the principles of justice and transparency in the face of such allegations.
NationPress
19/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the charges against Kakani Govardhan Reddy?
Kakani Govardhan Reddy faces charges related to unauthorized mineral extraction and illegal transportation of quartz.
What is the significance of this case?
This case highlights ongoing political tensions in Andhra Pradesh and raises questions about the intersection of politics and law enforcement.
What has the YSR Congress Party said about the arrest?
The YSR Congress Party has condemned the arrest, alleging it is a politically motivated attack by the TDP-led government.
What are the implications of the lookout notice issued against Kakani?
The lookout notice aims to prevent Kakani from leaving the country amid ongoing legal proceedings.
How has the legal process unfolded for Kakani?
Kakani has been denied anticipatory bail by both the High Court and the Supreme Court and is currently in judicial custody.
