BRS working president KT Rama Rao, commonly referred to as KTR, appeared before the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Thursday for questioning in the Formula E race case. KTR is the prime accused in the case involving alleged "unauthorised" payments made to host the Formula E race.
The Telangana High Court permitted KTR’s lawyer to accompany him to the ACB office, though not inside the interrogation room. The lawyer observed the questioning from a separate room through a glass window. Notably, CCTV recording of the session was not allowed.
KTR defends actions to boost Hyderabad’s image
Ahead of his appearance, KTR spoke to reporters, emphasising his dedication to Telangana and Hyderabad. "As the son of former Chief Minister Kalvakuntla Chandrashekhar Rao, I will always stand for Telangana. I have answers to all questions. Everything I did was aimed at enhancing Hyderabad's global image," he said.
KTR also shared a podcast clip highlighting his efforts to bring the prestigious Formula E race to India. He explained that the race was part of his vision to establish Hyderabad as a hub for sustainable mobility. He had aimed to make Telangana Mobility Valley (TMV) a center for innovation and electric vehicle manufacturing, creating jobs and generating revenue.
Also Read: Formula-E-case: KTR refuses to give statement without lawyer
In an online statement, KTR criticised political opponents, saying, "Small minds driven by petty politics may not understand this vision, but the people of Telangana will see the truth and my commitment to the state."
The ACB registered the Formula E race case last month, accusing KTR, who served as Municipal Administration Minister during the BRS regime, of involvement in unauthorised payments. These payments, allegedly made in foreign currency, amounted to losses of approximately Rs 55 crore.
The race, originally scheduled for February 2024, was canceled after a change in government in December 2023.
Also Read: Telangana abuzz over KTR’s possible arrest in formula-E case
Controversy over lawyer’s access
On Tuesday, dramatic scenes unfolded at the ACB office when KTR’s lawyer was denied entry. In protest, KTR left without appearing for questioning. Following this, a fresh notice was issued, and the court granted permission for the lawyer to remain nearby during Thursday’s questioning.
Senior IAS officer Arvind Kumar, another accused in the case, appeared before the ACB on Wednesday.
KTR maintains that his efforts were focused on promoting Hyderabad and its future, while he awaits further developments in the investigation.
Also Read: Formula-E race case: BRS leader KTR approaches SC against T'gana HC
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