Andhra Pradesh HC quashes poll code violation case against Allu Arjun

Amaravati: In a major relief to Tollywood star Allu Arjun, the Andhra Pradesh High Court on Wednesday dismissed a case filed against him for violating the election code during the 2024 Assembly elections.

The actor had been accused of violating the poll code when he visited the residence of Nandyal MLA Silpa Ravi on May 11, the final day of the election campaign. Silpa Ravi, a member of the YSR Congress Party, was seeking re-election. The visit, which was intended to show support for his friend, drew a large crowd of fans outside the MLA’s house, leading to a complaint from a local government official.

Since no prior permission had been sought from the Returning Officer for the visit, the police filed a First Information Report (FIR) against Allu Arjun and Silpa Ravi. The case was registered under Section 144 of the Election Code and Section 31 of the Andhra Pradesh Police Act, which were in force during the election period. These provisions prohibit public gatherings and movements that could disrupt public order during elections.

The Election Commission of India took note of the incident and ordered disciplinary action against the Nandyal District Superintendent of Police, Raghuveer Reddy, for failing to enforce the election code. The Commission also instructed the Andhra Pradesh Director General of Police to file charges against the SP and conduct a departmental inquiry against him and two other officers.

Allu Arjun, however, filed a petition in the High Court seeking to quash the case against him. In a favourable ruling, the court set aside the FIR and issued an interim order on October 25, directing that no legal action be taken against the actor until November 6.

The actor's legal team argued that his visit to Nandyal was personal and unrelated to the election campaign. They further stated that the crowd gathered outside Silpa Ravi's residence was not orchestrated by Allu Arjun and that the actor should not be held responsible for the public gathering.

Silpa Ravi, whose real name is Singareddy Ravichandra Kishore Reddy, ultimately lost the election held on May 13.

Agency