K T Rama Rao Requests Additional Time to Appear Before Enforcement Directorate for Questioning

BRS leader K T Rama Rao has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for questioning on January 7. This is in connection with alleged irregularities related to a Formula-E race held in Hyderabad. Party sources revealed that Rao has requested more time, citing an impending High Court verdict on his petition to dismiss the FIR against him.

The High Court is expected to announce its decision on Tuesday. The ED's summons are part of a money laundering investigation linked to alleged payment discrepancies during the February 2023 race. The federal agency initiated an enforcement case information report (ECIR) in December 2024, based on a complaint from the Telangana Police Anti-corruption Bureau.

Allegations and Investigations

Rama Rao, son of former Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, is required to provide a statement on January 7. The investigation focuses on alleged payments of approximately Rs 55 crore, some made in foreign currency without proper approvals, during the previous BRS regime. The ED is also examining potential foreign exchange violations under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).

Rao, commonly known as KTR, has denied any misconduct. He stated, "Where is the corruption in this? We have paid Rs 55 crore. They Formula-E acknowledged the payment." Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy criticised Rao over these allegations, claiming that about Rs 500 crore was saved by halting further fund transfers to the race organisers.

Political Reactions and Developments

Rao played a key role in organising the race as the municipal administration minister during the BRS regime. Although another race was planned for February this year, it was cancelled after the Congress government took office in December 2023. Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma had authorised the ACB to file a case against Rao.

The ongoing investigation highlights significant political tensions within Telangana. As legal proceedings continue, both sides await further developments that could impact the state's political landscape.