Hyderabad, December 28: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued notices to BRS Working President and MLA K.T. Rama Rao in connection with the Formula-E Car Race case. The ED has summoned KTR to appear for questioning on January 7, 2025. Senior IAS officer Arvind Kumar and former HMDA Chief Engineer BLN Reddy have also received ED notices, requiring them to appear for questioning on January 2 and 3, respectively.
The ED’s investigation is based on an FIR filed by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The ED has identified violations of PEMA regulations and suspects financial irregularities and cash transfers to the Formula-E Operations (FEO). Consequently, the ED has issued notices to the involved parties, directing them to appear for questioning.
ACB Counter Affidavit
In a counter affidavit submitted to the High Court the ACB highlighted several violations committed by KTR in his capacity as a minister. The affidavit detailed breaches of Secretariat Business Rules and the disregard for the Finance Department. The ACB accused KTR of multiple violations, including the misuse of foreign currency.
According to Secretariat Business Rules 9 and 11, any department exceeding the prescribed expenditure limit must seek approval from the Finance Department. The ACB revealed that KTR ignored these rules and proceeded without the necessary approvals. The High Court has ordered the ACB not to arrest KTR until December 31, pending further investigation.
KTR has filed a quash petition in the High Court regarding this case. If the High Court dismisses the quash petition before December 31, the ACB may arrest KTR without issuing further notices.
