ACB Court’s refusal to provide verdict copies pertaining to Naidu challenged in High Court

The Andhra Pradesh High Court on Tuesday heard criminal revision petitions challenging the refusal of the Vijayawada ACB Court to provide copies of verdicts and case records in matters registered against former Leader of the Opposition N. Chandrababu Naidu and others during the previous YSRCP government’s term.

The petitions were filed by retired railway employee Yemu Kondala Rao, who sought copies of closure orders and associated records of cases concerning alleged irregularities in fibroid and liquor policy matters.

The petitioner contended that the ACB Court had denied access to the records, despite the cases being closed, and requested disclosure to understand the basis of case disposal.

During the hearing, High Court Judge Venkata Jyothirmayi observed that third parties were not ordinarily entitled to obtain copies of verdicts pronounced by a criminal court. The court questioned the petitioners, noting: “What advantage does the petitioner seek to obtain copies of the ACB Court’s verdicts?”

The High Court directed the CID to submit a detailed report on the matter and adjourned the hearing to February 3 for further consideration.

Petitioner’s counsel Jada Sravan Kumar submitted that statements recorded under Section 164 of the CrPC and other material evidence existed. He argued that the ACB Court had closed the cases, citing a “mistake of fact,” notwithstanding allegations involving ₹25,000 crore. He reiterated that copies of closure orders were essential for transparency.

Additional Public Prosecutor Panini Somayaji, appearing on behalf of the CID, opposed disclosure to the petitioner as a third party, stating that the matter had been listed before the High Court for the first time and requested time to collate relevant details.

The court acceded to the request and adjourned the matter to February 3.