The Supreme Court on Wednesday refused to grant anticipatory bail to former Andhra Pradesh minister Karumuri Venkata Nageswara Rao in connection with the alleged liquor transportation scam in the state. The decision came as a setback for Rao, who had sought protection from arrest, arguing that he had no involvement in the alleged irregularities and that his health condition should be considered while deciding his plea. A bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, dismissed Rao’s anticipatory bail petition. The apex court also upheld the earlier order of the Telangana High Court, which had refused to provide relief to the former minister.

The Supreme Court observed that it was not inclined to grant protection from arrest in the matter. Appearing on behalf of Rao, his counsel told the court that the former minister had no connection with the alleged liquor transportation scam. The lawyer argued that Rao had been unnecessarily implicated in the case and requested the court to grant anticipatory bail. The defence also highlighted Rao’s health concerns and sought protection on humanitarian grounds. However, the Supreme Court was not persuaded by the arguments and declined to interfere with the High Court’s decision. With the dismissal of the plea, Rao does not currently have protection against arrest in connection with the investigation.

The order allows the investigating authorities to continue their proceedings as per the law. The case is related to alleged irregularities in the transportation and management of liquor in Andhra Pradesh. Investigating agencies have been examining allegations involving the movement of liquor and the possible role of individuals connected with the matter. The probe has brought several people under scrutiny, though the allegations against the accused are yet to be established through judicial proceedings. Rao, who has previously served as a minister in the Andhra Pradesh government, has denied the allegations against him. His legal team has maintained that he has no role in the alleged scam and that there is no direct evidence linking him to any wrongdoing.

Also Read: Supreme Court Grants Bail To Two Accused In Indian Mujahideen Case

The former minister has sought legal protection while challenging the accusations made against him. Anticipatory bail is a legal remedy available to individuals who fear arrest in a criminal case. It allows a person to seek protection from custody before an arrest takes place. Courts consider several factors while deciding such applications, including the seriousness of the allegations, the accused’s role in the case, the possibility of influencing witnesses, cooperation with the investigation and the overall circumstances of the matter. The Supreme Court’s refusal to grant anticipatory bail does not determine guilt or innocence in the case. The allegations will be examined during the course of the investigation and any subsequent legal proceedings.

The accused will continue to have the right to defend themselves before the appropriate judicial forums. The development is significant as Rao is among the political figures whose names have emerged during the investigation into the alleged liquor transportation irregularities. The case has attracted attention due to the involvement of a former minister and the ongoing legal battle over the allegations. Following the Supreme Court’s order, the focus now shifts to the next steps in the investigation. Authorities are expected to continue gathering evidence and examining the claims made by both the investigating agencies and the accused. Any further action against Rao will depend on the findings of the probe and future court proceedings.

Also Read: Supreme Court Brings Coal Block Case Against Manmohan Singh To A Close