The Andhra Pradesh High Court on Thursday granted interim relief to veteran actor Mohan Babu in connection with a kidnapping case involving student union leaders.
The court directed the police not to take any coercive action against him until April 16, when it will deliver its judgment on his anticipatory bail petition.
The case pertains to an alleged incident in February, where Tiruchanur police in Tirupati district registered a kidnapping case against Mohan Babu and others.
During the hearing, the actor’s counsel argued that he had no role in the alleged kidnapping and was not present at the location when the incident occurred.
Evidence was presented to show that he travelled from Hyderabad to Tirupati only later.
The defence also claimed that the allegations were part of a broader attempt to damage the reputation of the university associated with him, and sought directions for police to issue notices and record statements instead of pursuing arrest.
On the other hand, the prosecution argued that there was prima facie evidence linking Mohan Babu to the case, including phone conversations and messages with university staff at the time of the incident. The prosecution opposed any protection from arrest.
The court was also informed that Manchu Vishnu, named as Accused No. 3 in the case, had failed to appear despite being served notices.
The issue pertains to protests by student groups alleging exorbitant fee collection by the university near Tirupati.
During the agitation, two student leaders—Vinod and Akbar—were allegedly abducted by individuals linked to the institution.
Following a complaint, police launched a search operation, rescued the victims, arrested several bouncers, and seized vehicles.
Subsequently, cases were registered against multiple individuals, including Mohan Babu, under various sections of law.
The High Court is now set to pronounce its ruling on the anticipatory bail plea on April 16.
