Hyderabad Businessman Alleges Harassment in Supreme Court Over KLSR Infratech Case
In a dramatic development, city-based businessman Saurabh Agarwal, director of Bengal Cold Rollers, has approached the Supreme Court alleging severe harassment in connection with the ongoing legal battle against Hyderabad-based firm KLSR Infratech. The matter, which has taken several concerning turns, was heard by a bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymala Bagchi on Friday.
Allegations of Pressure and Family Harassment
Agarwal's counsel, Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay, informed the Supreme Court bench that his client's 75-year-old mother was recently arrested by police authorities, creating immense pressure on the family. This development comes amidst Agarwal's legal fight against KLSR Infratech, a case currently pending before the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT).
The businessman has specifically sought a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) probe into serious claims made by an NCLAT, Chennai bench member. According to Agarwal's petition, this judicial member alleged that a 'revered member' of the judiciary attempted to persuade him to issue an order favorable to KLSR Infratech.
Supreme Court's Cautious Approach
During the hearing, the Supreme Court bench demonstrated a measured approach, noting that any intervention or observation at this stage might prejudice the appeal pending before the NCLAT. "Because we have already requested the tribunal to decide the appeals in a time-bound manner, we will keep this matter pending. Let the appeal be decided first," the bench observed.
The court adjourned the matter to April 10, directing that if the NCLAT delivers its order in the appeal by that time, it should be placed before the Supreme Court for further consideration. The insolvency case has already been transferred to the NCLAT principal bench in Delhi and is being heard on a daily basis.
Legal Representation and Additional Concerns
During the proceedings, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta appeared for the authorities and made submissions, while senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi represented KLSR Infratech. Agarwal's counsel, Upadhyay, whose client supplied raw material to KLSR, urged the court to direct central and state authorities to file counters in the matter.
Upadhyay also requested directions to the state government to refrain from taking any coercive steps against Agarwal that might violate his fundamental rights. The bench responded by stating, "We will see the present petition based on the decision in the appeal," indicating their intention to await the NCLAT's ruling before proceeding further.
Political Dimensions and Broader Context
The case has gained additional political significance following allegations made by BRS working president KTR during a press conference in Hyderabad on February 4. KTR claimed that the state government had awarded tenders worth approximately 6,000 crore relating to various state government projects to KLSR Infratech, despite the firm's insolvency status.
This revelation adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing legal battle, raising questions about government contracting practices and the treatment of insolvent firms in public projects. The Supreme Court's decision to await the NCLAT ruling suggests a careful judicial approach to untangling the multiple threads of this complex case involving business disputes, alleged judicial interference, and now political allegations.
The matter continues to develop, with all eyes now on the NCLAT's decision and the subsequent Supreme Court hearing scheduled for April 10. The outcome could have significant implications for corporate litigation, judicial accountability, and government contracting practices in India.
