Justice Battu Devanand is all set to return to the Andhra Pradesh High Court, and his comeback is already creating a stir in political and legal circles. Known for his strong stand on legal matters and his fearless approach during the previous YSRCP government, Justice Battu had become a name that both the legal community and the public took seriously.
During his earlier stint in Andhra Pradesh, he delivered several bold rulings that didn’t sit well with the ruling party at the time. His transfer to the Madras High Court in 2023 was widely believed to be politically motivated, and lawyers across the state had staged protests opposing the move. Now, with his reappointment officially cleared by President Droupadi Murmu, he is expected to take charge in Andhra Pradesh again.
Justice Battu’s return is being closely watched, especially by those in power. He had earlier pulled up the government for painting official buildings in party colours, treating it as misuse of public funds. He even imposed fines on officials responsible. In another case, he took serious note of how a doctor Sudhakar was manhandled and arrested on a public road, issuing warrants against the police involved.
He also showed sympathy towards the farmers of Amaravati, acknowledging the hardships they faced in the wake of the capital shift. His bench had stayed the implementation of the controversial three capitals bill, a move that had temporarily halted the state’s plans.
Justice Battu wasn’t one to shy away from speaking the truth. On multiple occasions, even in public events, he subtly pointed out flaws in the administration. In one instance, he shared how his daughter, studying in Delhi, couldn’t answer what the capital of Andhra Pradesh was – highlighting the confusion caused by the state’s policies, then.
Now, with a new government in place and his return to the bench, legal observers believe that Justice Battu could once again play a key role in ensuring transparency and accountability. His presence is expected to bring sharper scrutiny to decisions taken by those in power, making his return one to watch closely.
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