Delhi High Court Blocks Ex-Jharkhand CM’s Political Comeback

Madhu Koda’s plea to stay coal scam conviction rejected ahead of elections

Key Points:

• Delhi HC dismisses Madhu Koda’s plea to stay coal scam conviction

• Court’s decision prevents Koda from contesting in upcoming assembly polls

• Koda and associates received 3-year sentences for corrupt practices

JAMSHEDPUR – The Delhi High Court has thwarted former Jharkhand Chief Minister Madhu Koda’s attempt to re-enter state politics.

Justice Neena Bansal Krishna rejected Koda’s plea to stay his conviction in a coal scam case.

This decision effectively bars Koda from participating in the upcoming Jharkhand assembly elections.

Moreover, the ruling upholds the trial court’s verdict against Koda and his associates.

The trial court had sentenced Koda to a three-year jail term for corrupt practices.

Additionally, former coal secretary HC Gupta and former chief secretary AK Basu received similar sentences.

Furthermore, the court imposed significant fines on the convicts and their associated company.

Vini Iron and Steel Udyog Ltd (VISUL) faced a hefty fine of Rs 50 lakh.

Meanwhile, the court ordered Koda to pay Rs 25 lakh, while Gupta and Basu each faced fines of Rs 1 lakh.

"This ruling sends a strong message against corruption in public office," remarked a legal expert.

The case stems from the allocation of the Rajhara North Coal Block in Jharkhand to VISUL.

On the other hand, the convicts, including Koda, were granted bail pending their appeals.

However, Koda’s recent plea sought to clear his path for contesting from the Jaganathpur constituency.

The High Court’s decision has effectively crushed Koda’s hopes for a political resurgence.

Indeed, this ruling marks a significant setback for the former chief minister’s political ambitions.

The verdict underscores the judiciary’s stance on corruption cases involving high-profile politicians.