#JUSTIN: Andhra Court Clears CM Naidu in Skill Development Scam Case

In a major relief to Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, a local court in Vijayawada has closed the case against him in connection with the alleged misappropriation of funds from the Andhra Pradesh State Skill Development Corporation. The case had claimed losses exceeding Rs 300 crore to the state exchequer, but the investigating agency found no evidence implicating Naidu.

Naidu, who had been arrested on September 9, 2023, spent over 50 days in the Rajamahendravaram Central Prison before being granted bail by the Andhra Pradesh High Court on October 31, 2023. The investigation was carried out meticulously by the CID to determine his role in the alleged financial irregularities.

According to Advocate General Dammalapati Srinivas, the CID submitted a closure report to the court stating that there was “no substance” in the allegations against Naidu. The judicial officer accepted the report on Monday, effectively ending the legal proceedings against the Chief Minister.

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The case had created significant political tension in the state, with Naidu’s party, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), alleging that the allegations were politically motivated during the tenure of YSRCP chief Jagan Mohan Reddy. Naidu had consistently denied any wrongdoing and maintained that he had no involvement in the alleged scam.

This closure marks a significant moment for Naidu, restoring his political credibility ahead of upcoming elections. It also highlights the importance of thorough investigations before filing high-profile criminal cases against public figures, ensuring justice and due process.

The TDP has welcomed the court’s decision, with party leaders calling it a vindication of Naidu’s integrity and leadership, while the case’s closure may also impact the political narrative in Andhra Pradesh as parties gear up for the 2026 assembly elections.

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