Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader and Telangana Minister KT Rama Rao has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a money laundering case linked to alleged financial irregularities during the Formula-E race held in Hyderabad in February 2023. According to reports, KT Rama Rao has been asked to appear on January 7 for recording his statement.
Details of the Case
The ED recently registered an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), taking cognizance of a complaint filed by the Telangana Police’s Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB). The case pertains to the alleged transfer of ₹55 crore from Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) funds to Formula-E Operations (FEO) without necessary approvals.
Apart from KT Rama Rao, senior IAS officer Arvind Kumar and retired HMDA engineer BLN Reddy have also been named in the case. Both officials have been summoned on January 2 and 3, respectively, for questioning.
KT Rama Rao’s Defense
KT Rama Rao has denied any allegations of corruption, stating that the payment of ₹55 crore was legitimate and duly acknowledged by Formula-E organizers. “The HMDA has an account in Indian Overseas Bank, and the money was transferred from that account,” he said, dismissing the claims.
Legal Developments
The Telangana High Court recently extended interim relief for KT Rama Rao, preventing the ACB from arresting him until December 31. Justice Shravan Kumar directed the ACB to present its response to KTR’s petition seeking quashing of the FIR.
This case has drawn significant political attention, with the BRS party calling for a debate on the matter in the Telangana Assembly. As investigations unfold, all eyes remain on the ED’s findings and the legal outcomes.
