ACB court, which is trying the infamous cash-for-vote scam, has made it clear that it can’t reveal the contents in the report that was submitted by FSL in connection with this case. The court has further said that the report, which was submitted in sealed cover, can’t be made public. The court told this to ACB (Anti Corruption Bureau), which is probing the scam. However, ACB officials can move a memo in the court to get the duplicate copy of the preliminary report of FSL, said the court. It further stated that it will decide whether or not to give the duplicate copy only after a careful examination of memo.

It may be recalled that ACB earlier directed FSL in Hyderabad to look into the audio tapes that are alleged to be of TDP supremo Chandrababu Naidu. The tape contained alleged conversation between Babu and nominated MLA to Telangana assembly, Elvis Stephenson. While FSL is yet to submit its final report in the case, it however gave a preliminary report. The content of this report is not yet known. Nonetheless, it has been rival on the Internet that FSL reportedly ascertained that the voice in the audio tape was not fabricated.

It is known that cash for vote scam came to light recently when ACB conducted a sting operation and apprehended TDP MLA Revant Reddy from Telangana state for allegedly promising Stephenson a sum of five crore rupees, in case he votes for TDP candidate in MLC elections. The episode evoked public cry and Election Commission swung into action seeking a copy of FSL report from the ACB court.

More to follow.

(Phani B)