ANDHRAPRADESH: Supreme Court Grants Bail to Journalist in Amaravati Remarks Case
The Supreme Court has granted bail to senior journalist Kommineni Srinivasa Rao, arrested for alleged derogatory remarks about Amaravati, while cautioning him against making obscene comments in the future.
Bail Granted with Conditions
On June 13, 2025, the Supreme Court ordered the immediate release of Kommineni Srinivasa Rao, arrested by Andhra Pradesh Police on June 9. The court stipulated that the trial court would impose necessary conditions for his release.
Allegations of Illegal Arrest
A petition filed on Kommineni’s behalf argued that his arrest was unlawful, citing the absence of prior notice and non-compliance with Supreme Court guidelines on arrests. The petitioner emphasized that Kommineni, over 70 with no criminal record, was detained in Telangana and remanded 331 km away.
Court Questions Responsibility for Panelist’s Remarks
Kommineni’s counsel contended that the journalist was not responsible for comments made by a panelist during a live television show he hosted. The Supreme Court questioned the Andhra Pradesh Police’s rationale, asking, “How can you jail a journalist for what someone else said?”
Judicial Remarks on Arrest Justification
The bench expressed skepticism about the arrest, noting that laughing during a TV debate does not warrant detention. The judges highlighted that laughter is common even in court hearings, underscoring the need to protect journalistic freedom.
Andhra Pradesh Police’s Defense
The lawyer representing the Andhra Pradesh Police opposed the bail plea, defending the arrest’s legitimacy. However, the court found the arguments insufficient to justify holding Kommineni accountable for a guest’s statements.
Emphasis on Press Freedom
The Supreme Court underscored the importance of safeguarding freedom of speech, stating that Kommineni’s journalistic participation in a live show deserved protection. The ruling has been hailed as a victory for press freedom by some observers.
Conditions Imposed by the Court
While granting bail, the court advised Kommineni to refrain from making obscene remarks about Amaravati in the future. The trial court was directed to outline specific conditions to ensure compliance during his release.
Broader Implications for Media
The case has sparked discussions on the boundaries of journalistic responsibility and the state’s approach to media freedom. Critics of the arrest argue it reflects an intent to suppress press voices, a claim the coalition government denies.