Minister Konda Surekha Faces Criminal Case Over Defamation Allegations
In a dramatic legal development, the Nampally Court has directed Hyderabad police to register a criminal case against Telangana Minister for Environment and Forests, Konda Surekha. The directive follows a defamation complaint filed by BRS working president K.T. Rama Rao (KTR), who accused the minister of making baseless and damaging remarks.
The court found sufficient preliminary evidence to proceed under Section 356 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, supported by procedural clauses under Sections 222 and 223. The order mandates that a formal notice be served to the minister on or before August 21.
KTR’s complaint stems from public statements made by Surekha, which allegedly linked him to the divorce of Tollywood actors Naga Chaitanya and Samantha. She also accused him of drug abuse and hosting rave parties—claims that KTR asserts were made with malicious intent to tarnish his reputation.
The court rejected objections raised by Surekha’s legal team, including challenges to jurisdiction and the admissibility of electronic evidence. A pen drive submitted by KTR’s counsel containing video footage of the remarks was accepted for preliminary review, with certification requirements deferred to the trial stage.
Adding weight to the complaint were depositions from five witnesses, who corroborated the defamatory nature of the statements. The court emphasized that the remarks appeared to be directly attributable to Surekha and not misrepresented by third parties.
This legal action marks a significant escalation in the ongoing political rivalry between the BRS and Congress factions in Telangana. KTR, in his plea, underscored the need for accountability in public discourse, stating that unchecked character attacks erode democratic values.
Surekha responded to the court’s directive by expressing faith in the judicial process, while KTR reiterated his commitment to pursuing justice.
The case is expected to enter its evidentiary phase later this month, with legal experts watching closely as it unfolds.
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