The Andhra Pradesh High Court on Friday directed YSRCP functionary Bandi Nityananda Reddy to cooperate with the investigation into the murder of realtor Pedda Dastagiri. Declining to quash the case, which was registered under murder charges, the high court instructed the police to follow the provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) if the alleged offences are punishable with less than seven years of imprisonment.
Background of the Case
Reddy had approached the high court seeking to quash the case registered against him by the Kadapa RIMS police. Senior counsel C Raghu, representing Reddy, argued that his client's name was not mentioned in the First Information Report (FIR) and that he was implicated due to political reasons. The primary allegation against Reddy was providing shelter to the accused in the case. Since this offence carries a punishment of less than seven years, Raghu sought directions for the police to adhere to Section 35(3) of the BNSS.
Prosecution's Arguments
Public prosecutor Menda Lakshminarayana countered that Reddy played a pivotal role in the murder, and the police have gathered prima facie evidence to support this claim. He stated that Reddy not only gave shelter to the participants in the murder but also arranged money and logistics for their escape. Furthermore, he alleged that Reddy and Dastagiri were involved in the real estate business, and Reddy conspired to eliminate Dastagiri following business disputes.
Court's Observations
After hearing both sides, Justice Y Lakshmana Rao observed that the investigation is still in its early stages, and therefore, there is no basis to quash the FIR. He noted that if the petitioner fears arrest, he may file an anticipatory bail petition. The judge directed Reddy to cooperate fully with the investigation and adjourned the matter for further hearing after the summer vacation.
This case has drawn significant attention due to the involvement of a prominent political figure and the serious nature of the allegations. The court's decision underscores the importance of allowing the investigation to proceed without interference.
