According to the instructions given by the Telangana High Court, YSR Congress Party President, and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has there is no need to appear in person before a special court for Central Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement Directorate cases in Hyderabad on 31 January.
The High Court on Tuesday filed a petition filed by Jagan challenging the particular court order for the Central Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement Directorate cases in Hyderabad. In which he denied exemption from personal appearance against him in cases of disproportionate assets and money laundering.
The court heard arguments by Jagan’s lawyer for exempting him from appearing in court. He argued that Jagan would not be able to appear in court every Friday as he had the constitutional responsibility to discharge his official duties in the capacity of the Chief Minister.
Apart from this, he said, regular visits to the court would also place a heavy burden on the state exchequer, as the official machinery had to arrange for his security and travel every week.
When the CBI counsel opposed the petition, the High Court asked the CBI to file a counter with all the details as to why Jagan cannot granted a personal exemption. The court posted the case on 6 February.
When Jagan’s lawyer sought an exemption for him to appear in CBI court on 31 January, so the High Court judge directed him to file a petition in the CBI court, saying that the case was under investigation by the High Court.
If the CBI court entertains this petition as per the directions of the High Court, so Jagan may not have to appear in court next Friday and until the High Court settles his plea.