Telangana High Court Quashes 2016 SC/ST Act FIR Against CM Revanth Reddy

In a significant legal development, the Telangana High Court has quashed an FIR registered in 2016 against the current Chief Minister, A. Revanth Reddy, under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The case had lingered for nearly eight years, revolving around an incident in which Reddy was accused of making derogatory remarks and threatening behavior towards a Dalit individual during a public interaction. However, the High Court ruled that there was insufficient evidence to proceed with the matter.

The bench observed that there was no clear proof placing Revanth Reddy at the scene of the alleged incident, and no corroborating material to establish his direct involvement in the acts alleged. The judgment emphasized that invoking provisions of the SC/ST Act must be based on strong prima facie evidence, not just accusations or political animosity. The court further noted inconsistencies in the complainant’s statements and delay in the filing of the FIR, casting doubt on the case’s credibility.

Legal experts have lauded the verdict as a reaffirmation of judicial prudence, especially in cases involving high-profile individuals where political motivations can often obscure factual accuracy. The court maintained that while the SC/ST Act is a powerful safeguard for marginalized communities, its misuse can erode public confidence and dilute its intended protections. This ruling, they say, sends a clear message about the importance of upholding due process and preventing the law’s exploitation for vendettas.

Supporters of Revanth Reddy have welcomed the decision as a long-overdue vindication. They argue that the FIR was part of a political conspiracy during his time as a key opposition leader, aimed at tarnishing his image and hindering his political progress. The case has been cited multiple times over the years by his detractors, but with the High Court’s dismissal, his legal slate on this matter is now officially clean.

Opposition parties, however, have expressed mixed reactions. While some have accepted the court’s decision as binding, others have questioned the timing and urged transparency. A few leaders have hinted at appealing to the Supreme Court, although legal analysts suggest the current verdict leaves little room for further prosecution unless compelling new evidence surfaces.

With the FIR quashed, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is expected to continue focusing on his governance agenda without the cloud of the pending case. The episode marks the conclusion of a long chapter in his political journey, one that he now appears poised to move past. Political analysts believe this could boost his public image and strengthen his leadership position ahead of upcoming legislative challenges.