Former AP CM Jagan Mohan Reddy Ordered to Appear Before CBI Court in Decade-Long Disproportionate Assets Case

The disproportionate assets case involving former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, who is currently on bail, extends back more than ten years (File).

A Special CBI Court in Hyderabad has instructed former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy to personally appear for the hearing in the ongoing disproportionate assets case on or before November 21.

This instruction followed extensive arguments and the subsequent withdrawal of Jagan Mohan Reddy's exemption request, which had been strongly contested by the CBI.

The charges against Jagan Mohan Reddy, who remains free on bail, originate from over a decade ago in what is primarily referred to as the Disproportionate Assets Case. The allegations involve quid pro quo arrangements during his late father Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy's tenure as Chief Minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh between 2004 and 2009.

According to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED), numerous companies and individuals made substantial investments, frequently at premium rates, into Jagan Mohan Reddy's enterprises, including Jagathi Publications and Bharathi Cements. These investments were allegedly made in exchange for improper favors such as land allocations, mining permits, and other governmental approvals.

The CBI has submitted at least 11 charge sheets in this matter, identifying Jagan Mohan Reddy as the primary accused (A-1).

The requirement for personal attendance was established as a condition when the CBI court granted Jagan Mohan Reddy authorization to travel to Europe last month. He was initially directed to appear by November 14 to provide his travel details and confirm compliance with his bail conditions.

Following his return, his expected appearance became contentious. Jagan Mohan Reddy submitted a new memo requesting exemption from personal appearance, citing the necessity for special security arrangements and the administrative expense his physical presence imposes on the state treasury. He requested to participate via video conference, indicating he would attend in person only if the court deemed it necessary.

The court initially ordered the CBI to file a counter-affidavit expressing its position before making a final determination. In its response, the CBI not only opposed the exemption but also referenced previous disputes, claiming that Jagan Mohan Reddy had violated his bail conditions during his foreign trip by failing to provide accurate contact information while abroad. The CBI had previously attempted, unsuccessfully, to have his bail revoked over these alleged violations.

With the November 14 deadline approaching and facing strong opposition from the investigating agency, Jagan Mohan Reddy's counsel withdrew the exemption memo during the November 11 hearing. Instead of adhering to the original November 14 deadline, the court granted a brief extension, directing him to appear on or before November 21.