Chandrababu Naidu's interim bail only on health grounds, no relief in scam: AP High Court

HYDERABAD: Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP president Chandrababu Naidu has been granted interim bail solely on health grounds, stated the Andhra Pradesh High Court on Tuesday. According to the court, the decision was a response to his deteriorating health, despite no relief being granted in the ongoing Skill Development Scam case in which he was arrested on September 9 and listed as accused no.37.

The Health Dilemma

According to the bail orders, Naidu's lawyers had stated, "Since his detention, he has faced severe difficulties in accessing essential medical care, which has had a detrimental impact on his health. Naidu's situation has been described as critical, posing a risk to his life, and beyond the control of the jail authorities.

"Medical reports indicate that he has been diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus for 15 years and has been under constant medical treatment. Additionally, he has been identified as a known case of Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy, which prompted cardiac evaluations in December 2022.

"The medical report submitted by a team of doctors after examining Naidu revealed his deteriorating health, including Erythematous Popular Rash over his chest, back, palms, and intergluteal region," the petitioner stated.

Medical Recommendations

Naidu's lawyers stated, "Furthermore, a medical report from government doctors advised various medical tests for Naidu, including Complete Blood Picture, Renal Function Tests, Liver Function Tests, Serum Electrolytes, Coagulation Profile, HbA1C, Complete Urine Examination, ECG, X-Ray, Chest, and 2D Echo. These tests are crucial as they include assessments of vital organs such as the heart and lungs.

"Naidu's deteriorating health, coupled with the dire need for medical management, prompted the request for interim bail to undergo these vital medical tests, led by a team of doctors chosen by Naidu himself," the lawyers claimed.

Court's Deliberation

During the court proceedings, the Naidu's counsel contended that the 73-year-old petitioner, while in custody, faced difficulties in accessing necessary medical care. The court took into consideration the medical reports that indicated Naidu's critical health condition, including complications like erythematous popular rash and his history of diabetes mellitus and hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy.

In response to these arguments, the Court noted that "Naidu's health has indeed deteriorated during his incarceration. While the Additional Advocate-General argued that there was no justifiable reason for granting interim bail, given the stability of Naidu's condition, the court reviewed the medical evidence and reiterated the severity of his health concerns.

The court acknowledged that Naidu was advised to undergo cataract surgery for his right eye to prevent a significant deterioration in vision.

The Verdict

In light of Naidu's deteriorating health, ongoing medical issues, and the urgent need for cataract surgery, the court granted him interim bail on health grounds.

"This Court places the health and well-being of an individual as the foremost consideration, irrespective of the gravity of the alleged offense. It's important to recognize that custody during the investigative phase should not be perceived as punitive. Every individual has the inherent right to receive comprehensive and effective medical care. The undisputed fact remains that the petitioner is suffering from specific ailments that demand medical attention, particularly regarding his right eye," stated the court.

It's important to note that this interim bail is solely for addressing Naidu's medical concerns and does not grant him relief in the Skill Development Scam case. The court has effectively balanced the imperative of preserving the petitioner's health with the legal proceedings against him, ensuring that his health remains a top priority.