The Andhra Pradesh High Court has quashed corruption charges against A.B. Venkateswara Rao, the former Additional Director General of Police for the state’s intelligence department. The court ruled that upgrading the state’s surveillance systems was part of his “bounden duty” and did not constitute misuse of office.

Rao had been accused of using his position to benefit a third party, allegedly managed by his son, and causing a loss to the government exchequer. The charges included violations under the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Indian Penal Code. However, the court found that Rao’s actions were in line with his responsibilities to adapt the state’s surveillance capabilities to evolving security needs. The judgment emphasized the importance of intelligence inputs in maintaining law and order and national security.

Sources