The infamous "Vote for Note" scandal, which rocked both Telugu states, is back in the headlines. This case initially erupted during the Telangana Legislative Council elections when TDP was accused of offering bribes to nominated MLA Stephenson to vote in favor of their candidate. Notably, Revanth Reddy, a key figure from TDP, was caught red-handed with cash bags at Stephenson’s residence, leading to his arrest. The footage of Revanth handing over the cash went viral, adding fuel to the scandal, which also involved an audio clip of a conversation between Stephenson and then-AP Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu.
The case had simmered down but has recently been reignited as a BRS MLA, Jagadish Reddy, filed a petition in the Supreme Court to transfer the case to Madhya Pradesh. The Supreme Court has issued notices to the Telangana government, Revanth Reddy, and other defendants, indicating a forthcoming detailed investigation.
The timing is critical as general elections approach, raising anxieties among TDP leaders. Chandrababu Naidu, already on bail in a skill development case and warned by the High Court against violating bail conditions, finds himself under renewed scrutiny. The party fears this revived case could bring fresh troubles.