Amaravati, October 16: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has cleared former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu of wrongdoing in the ₹371 crore Skill Development Corporation scam, sparking political controversy. Naidu had been accused of misappropriating funds, allegedly causing a loss of over ₹300 crore to the state exchequer.
Congress Alleges Political Favouritism
Following the ED’s decision, Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate took to social media platform X to criticize the move, calling it “Modi’s washing machine.” She alleged that Naidu’s acquittal was politically motivated, suggesting that his alignment with the BJP-led government played a role in receiving the clean chit.
Naidu was arrested on September 9, 2023, based on an investigation by the Andhra Pradesh CID under the Jagan Mohan Reddy government. After spending 50 days in Rajamahendravaram prison, he was granted interim bail on October 31, 2023, for cataract surgery.
Legal Updates and Police Assurance
- The Andhra Pradesh High Court granted Naidu regular bail on November 20, 2023.
- On November 27, 2023, the Supreme Court permitted Naidu to resume his public activities.
- Meanwhile, the Andhra Pradesh Police informed the Supreme Court that Naidu will not be arrested in the FiberNet case until October 18, as his petition related to the Skill Development Corporation scam is still under review.
This development has further intensified the political tussle between the TDP, Congress, and the ruling YSRCP, raising questions over the timing and impartiality of investigations.
