Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy on Friday apologised for his remarks about the bail granted to Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha in the Delhi liquor policy case. This comes a day after the Supreme Court reprimanded him for his comments about a 'deal' between the BJP and the BRS for securing bail for Kavitha.
In a post on X, Reddy wrote that he has "the highest regard and full faith" in the Indian Judiciary.
"I understand that certain press reports dated 29th August, 2024 containing comments attributed to me have given the impression that I am questioning the judicial wisdom of the Hon’ble Court. I reiterate that I am a firm believer of the judicial process.I unconditionally express my regret for the statements reflected in the press reports," the Telangana Chief Minister wrote.
The Congress leader alleged that his comments were "taken out of context" and stressed that he has "unconditional respect and the highest regard for the Judiciary and its independence".
The Supreme Court granted bail to K Kavitha in the Delhi excise policy scam case on August 27, observing that prolonged incarceration before being pronounced guilty of an offence should not be permitted to become a punishment without trial.
After the court verdict, the Telangana Chief Minister commented, "It is a fact that BRS worked for the victory of the BJP in the 2024 LS polls. There is also talk that Kavitha got bail because of the deal between BRS and BJP".
Strongly criticising these comments, the Supreme Court on Thursday observed that such statements might create apprehensions in the minds of people. "Do we pass orders after consultations with political parties?" the court asked angrily, voicing displeasure.
"Have you read in the newspaper what he said? Just read what he has stated. What sort of statement is this by a responsible chief minister. That might rightly create apprehension in the minds of people. Is this a kind of statement which should be made by a chief minister? A constitutional functionary is speaking in this manner," a three-judge bench headed by Justice B R Gavai told senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Reddy.
The bench continued, "Why should they drag court in political rivalry? Do we pass orders after consultations with political parties? We are not bothered by politicians or if anybody criticises our orders. We do our duty as per conscience and oath".
The top court also said it is a fundamental duty of political parties to show respect to institutions.
