Investigators were accused of maneuvering to secure bail for Bhasakar under CrPC provisions, a move thwarted only by the High Court. The court decried this as ‘police and power’s clear collusion,’ with the MLC enjoying interim bail for over two years amid stalled progress.

Balancing individual freedoms with justice delivery, the justices criticized the probe’s lethargy or intentional sabotage in a grave offense. To expedite matters, they urged the Andhra Pradesh High Court Chief Justice to hand over the case to a seasoned judge.

Deadlines were non-negotiable: frame charges before April 18, 2026; complete evidence scrutiny soon after; finalize any additional inquiry by March 31, 2026; and conclude the trial by November 30, 2026. The trial court must operate without interruptions, with the judge dedicated solely to this high-stakes proceeding.

This firm stance from the apex court signals zero tolerance for interference, aiming to restore faith in the judicial process amid whispers of political meddling.