Hyderabad: Jagan’s Court Return: Power Shift to Docket Duty?
After nearly six years of exemptions tied to his chief minister duties, YSR Congress Party leader Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy stepped into the Nampally CBI special court in Hyderabad on November 20, 2025, marking a personal appearance in the long-running disproportionate assets case. The visit, his first since stepping down from office following the party’s electoral loss, came after the court rejected his bid to continue virtual or proxy attendance. Tight security blanketed the premises, with traffic diversions in place to manage crowds and ensure smooth proceedings before Judge Raghuram.
Court Rejects Exemption Plea
Jagan had sought to extend his prior exemptions, citing official engagements during his tenure, but the court insisted on in-person participation amid ongoing hearings. This directive, issued earlier in November, left little room for delay, compelling the former leader to appear as an ordinary citizen and MLA. The ruling underscores the judiciary’s push for direct involvement in a case that has lingered since 2012, probing alleged irregularities from his father’s era.
Case Background: Quid Pro Quo Scrutiny
At its core, the investigation examines claims that businesses linked to Jagan, such as Jagathi Publications and Bharathi Cements, received inflated investments from firms and individuals in exchange for government favors under Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy’s administration from 2004 to 2009. The CBI has filed 11 charge sheets, accusing Jagan of criminal conspiracy, cheating, and falsifying accounts to amass unexplained wealth. Over 130 discharge petitions from Jagan and co-accused remain pending, with daily arguments now underway to potentially drop charges.
Key elements under review include:
- Investments at premium share prices totaling hundreds of crores, allegedly tied to policy perks.
- Involvement of entities like Sakshi newspaper and cement ventures, flagged for disproportionate growth.
- Broader links to public funds, with the Enforcement Directorate running parallel probes.
Security and Political Echoes
Police deployed extensive measures around the court complex, restricting media access and rerouting traffic from areas like MJ Market and Masab Tank to avoid disruptions. Jagan arrived via Begumpet Airport that morning, traveling under escort to the 10:30 a.m. slot. The event stirred local buzz, highlighting the case’s role in Andhra politics, where it once fueled opposition narratives during Jagan’s rise.
As hearings progress, Jagan faces regular summons, a stark contrast to his past shielded status. This chapter could influence his party’s regrouping efforts, blending legal hurdles with electoral reflections in the post-power landscape.