Why Did the Telangana HC Dismiss IAS Officer’s Discharge Petition in the OMC Case?
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Synopsis
In a recent ruling, the Telangana High Court has denied IAS officer Y. Srilakshmi's plea for discharge in the Obulapuram Mining Company case, which involves serious allegations of illegal mining. This decision has significant implications for the ongoing investigations into corruption in the mining sector in Andhra Pradesh.
Key Takeaways
- Telangana High Court dismissed IAS officer Y. Srilakshmi's discharge petition.
- The case revolves around illegal mining allegations against the Obulapuram Mining Company.
- Significant implications for corruption investigations in Andhra Pradesh.
- Four individuals previously convicted in this case.
- Continued scrutiny of public administration ethics.
Hyderabad, July 25 (NationPress) In a blow to IAS officer Y. Srilakshmi, the Telangana High Court has dismissed her request for discharge in the Obulapuram Mining Company (OMC) case, which involves allegations of illegal mining.
The High Court, which had reserved its decision regarding the petition from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, announced the ruling on Friday.
Currently serving in the Andhra Pradesh government, Srilakshmi had filed a revision petition disputing the CBI special court order from October 2022, which rejected her earlier petition seeking discharge from the case.
She is identified as accused number six in the 2009 case, where the CBI special court sentenced four individuals, including Karnataka BJP MLA Gali Janardan Reddy, to seven years in prison in May 2025.
While delivering its order, the CBI special court did not address Srilakshmi's alleged involvement, as she had challenged the special court's decision in the High Court.
Previously, the High Court had accepted her revision petition, nullifying the special court's ruling. Following this, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) approached the Supreme Court, indicating that the ruling was made without considering their arguments.
In May 2025, the Supreme Court returned the revision petition to the High Court, establishing a three-month deadline for its resolution.
During a hearing last week, the CBI contended that Srilakshmi, while serving as the secretary of the Industries department, had shown favoritism towards OMC.
The agency claimed that she collaborated with then Director of Mines VD Rajagopal to solicit significant bribes from other mining license applicants, while unlawfully benefiting OMC and its promoters, Gali Janardhan Reddy and B.V. Srinivas Reddy. It asserted that her actions led to financial advantages for OMC, thus placing her actions under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
This case, initiated by the CBI 16 years ago, pertains to illegal mining activities conducted by OMC in Anantapur district of undivided Andhra Pradesh.
In a ruling on May 6, the CBI special court sentenced Janardhan Reddy, his relative B.V. Srinivas Reddy (managing director of OMC), D. Rajagopal (then Director of the Mining Department), and Janardhan Reddy's assistant, Ali Khan, to seven years in prison.
Sabitha Indra Reddy, former Home Minister of Andhra Pradesh, and retired IAS officer B. Krupanandam were acquitted of the charges against them due to insufficient evidence.
Last month, the Telangana High Court suspended the sentences and granted conditional bail to the convicted individuals.
Point of View
I must emphasize that the integrity of public administration is paramount. The dismissal of Srilakshmi's petition by the Telangana High Court underscores the judicial system's commitment to addressing allegations of corruption. This case serves as a reminder of the responsibility that public officials have in upholding ethical standards and the rule of law.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Obulapuram Mining Company case?
The Obulapuram Mining Company case involves allegations of illegal mining practices in Andhra Pradesh, with multiple officials accused of corruption and collusion.
Who is Y. Srilakshmi?
Y. Srilakshmi is an IAS officer currently serving in the Andhra Pradesh government, involved in the ongoing legal proceedings related to the OMC case.
What was the outcome of the Telangana High Court's ruling?
The Telangana High Court dismissed Srilakshmi's petition for discharge, allowing the CBI's allegations to proceed.
What are the implications of this case?
This case highlights issues of corruption within the mining sector and the accountability of public officials, potentially impacting future administrative practices.
Has anyone been convicted in this case?
Yes, in May 2025, four individuals, including BJP MLA Gali Janardan Reddy, were sentenced to seven years in prison for their involvement in the illegal mining operations.
