Today marks twelve years since YS Jagan Mohan Reddy walked out of Chanchalguda Central Jail in the disproportionate assets cases. He had spent nearly sixteen months in custody before securing conditional bail from the Nampally CBI court on this very day in 2013.
Jagan faces serious charges under the IPC and the Prevention of Corruption Act. These include criminal conspiracy, corruption, cheating, and forgery. The cases allege that he amassed huge wealth through quid pro quo investments in his companies.
After his release, Jagan organised a massive rally from Chanchalguda Jail to his Lotus Pond residence. Supporters saw it as a show of strength, while others criticised it. That moment gave his party a fresh push, despite the shadow of ongoing cases.
One bail condition required Jagan to surrender his passport. Even today, he cannot leave India without court approval. The court also ordered him to attend hearings every Friday in Nampally. Until 2019, he followed this strictly, even pausing his Padayatra every Friday.
Once he became Chief Minister, Jagan frequently filed absence petitions, citing official duties. He barely attended court during his five-year term. Even now, as opposition leader, he continues to stay away from hearings in these cases.
Twelve years later, the trial has still not started. The accused repeatedly delay the process by filing discharge petitions. The CBI has not managed to ensure Jagan's attendance in court, let alone push for faster trial proceedings.
At present, Jagan faces eleven CBI cases and nine ED cases related to disproportionate assets. Many believe the BJP at the Centre shields him to secure YSR Congress support in Parliament during crucial bill discussions.
Though the BJP is formally allied with the TDP, its soft corner for Jagan remains visible. The lack of movement in these cases fuels suspicion of a quiet understanding between the BJP and YSR Congress.