Ex-Judge Resigns from Inquiry Commission
- Resignation Announcement:
- Retired Justice L Narasimha Reddy resigned from the commission of inquiry into alleged irregularities in the power sector during the BRS regime on Tuesday, July 16.
- Supreme Court Disapproval:
- His resignation followed the Supreme Court’s oral disapproval of his public statements made during a press conference.
- Former Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao had filed a plea challenging the appointment of the fact-finding committee.
- Court’s Directive:
- A three-judge bench, led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, asked the Telangana Government to suggest a replacement for Justice Reddy.
- The Chief Justice noted that Justice Reddy had overstepped by making public statements about the inquiry before its conclusion.
- Reason for Press Conference:
- Justice Reddy explained that the press briefing was held to correct media reports that were based on “imagination” and to clarify the progress of the inquiry.
- Impact on Commission:
- The Supreme Court emphasized that public statements by a judge can affect the reputation of individuals involved.
- The Telangana government agreed to replace the head of the fact-finding commission to avoid adverse orders from the Court.
- Justice Reddy’s Statement:
- Justice Reddy stated that he held the press conference to inform the media about the inquiry and asserted that he did not intend to continue to uphold the dignity of the judicial fraternity.
- Background of Inquiry:
- The inquiry was initiated by the newly formed Congress government under Chief Minister Revanth Reddy in March 2024.
- The commission was tasked with probing the power purchase agreement between the Telangana and Chhattisgarh governments and the construction of power projects at Yadadri and Bhadradri.