In a significant legal turn of events, senior YSR Congress Party leader and former minister Kakani Govardhan Reddy has been refused anticipatory bail by the Andhra Pradesh High Court in relation to a high-profile illegal mining case. The ruling, handed down on Wednesday, has paved the way for the arrest of the Andhra Pradesh police, with no legal protection covering him from custody.
Since the last few days, Kakani has allegedly gone into hiding from police summons, staying inaccessible and reportedly refusing to receive official notices pertaining to the investigation. With the court denying his bail application, sources indicate that law enforcement agencies are now preparing to arrest him at any time.
The case, which has attracted much public interest, pertains to illegal excavation and transportation of quartz in Podalakur in Nellore district. Police investigations indicate that Kakani and his close associates had carried out extensive unauthorised mining operations on a large scale, allegedly earning illegal revenues of ₹250 crore.
While three of the co-accused have already secured bail, Kakani—listed as the seventh accused—along with others including his son-in-law, have so far failed to cooperate with the authorities. Both individuals have been non-compliant with police notices, choosing not to appear for questioning despite repeated reminders.
Insiders believe that Kakani was confident the court would rule in his favor, which may explain his absence during the investigation. However, the High Court’s refusal to grant anticipatory bail has now put him in a legally vulnerable position.
Adding to his legal troubles, a separate plea filed by Kakani seeking to quash the case entirely has been postponed for two weeks, further delaying any potential relief.
Despite being a senior figure in the ruling YSRCP, legal experts note that Kakani may have few immediate options. Though there is speculation that he may move the Supreme Court, sources indicate that the Andhra Pradesh police are unlikely to hold off on arrest proceedings, especially considering his repeated avoidance of official procedure.
With mounting legal pressure and no court protection, analysts believe Kakani’s arrest is imminent, marking a dramatic turn in one of the most closely-watched political controversies in recent times.
