TELANGANA: IAS officer Srilakshmi Faces Setback in Telangana HC
Revision Petition Dismissed
The Telangana High Court delivered a significant ruling, dismissing the revision petition filed by IAS officer Y. Srilakshmi in the Obulapuram Mining Company (OMC) illegal mining case. The court upheld her status as an accused, paving the way for further investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Background of the Case
Srilakshmi, previously discharged by the High Court, faced renewed scrutiny after the Supreme Court intervened. The apex court deemed the prior discharge order flawed, as it was issued without considering CBI’s arguments, and mandated a fresh hearing within three months.
CBI’s Allegations
The CBI alleged that Srilakshmi, as Secretary of the Industries Department in 2006, facilitated OMC’s mining leases through misuse of authority. The agency highlighted her role as the sixth accused, accusing her of suppressing facts in her latest petition.
Court’s Rationale
The Telangana High Court, after reviewing CBI’s arguments, found sufficient evidence of procedural irregularities in OMC’s lease approvals. It rejected Srilakshmi’s plea, citing her failure to disclose prior dismissals of similar petitions.
Next Steps
With the dismissal, the case returns to the lower court for trial. The CBI is poised to deepen its probe into Srilakshmi’s involvement, focusing on the alleged abuse of power in granting OMC leases.