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Chandrababu Naidu’s Anticipatory Bail Denied: Section 17A Controversy Grips Legal Battle – Flaunt Post

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The former chief minister of Andhra Pradesh and president of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), N Chandrababu Naidu, is currently involved in a legal account that has the interest of the entire country. His three anticipatory bail pleas were recently denied by the Andhra Pradesh High Court, which is a significant move in a case that has garnered media attention ever since his arrest on September 9, 2023. 

When Naidu served as chief minister from 2014 to 2019, a skill development programme was at the centre of the accusations against him. He is charged with participating in fraudulent acts connected to this programme, which resulted in his arrest. But as three more cases surfaced, including those associated with the Fibernet programme, the Amaravati Inner Ring Road project, and violent episodes in Angallu, the legal chaos grew worse.

In these new cases, Naidu’s defence strategy had mainly relied on asking for anticipatory bail, but the Andhra Pradesh High Court’s denial of these petitions struck a blow to his attempts. In connection with the skill development case, an Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) court dismissed his request for release and denied a request from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for his detention so that he may be questioned further.

The legal team representing Naidu also used the Supreme Court as a battleground, raising issues with how Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act of 1988 should be interpreted. This clause, which was added by an amendment in 2018, requires getting prior approval from the appropriate authorities before opening an inquiry into a public employee.

Naidu’s objection was based on the claim that the Governor’s approval was not obtained before the Andhra Pradesh Crime Investigation Department named him as the 37th accused in the skill development fraud case. Senior counsel Harish Salve and his legal team argued that Section 17A was intended to stop instances of “regime revenge.” It was complicated to determine whether Section 17A applied to offences committed before the 2018 amendment and whether it could be used when the FIR involved offences that violated both the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Indian Penal Code. This was the subject of a hearing before the Supreme Court, which was presided over by Justices Aniruddha Bose and Bela M Trivedi.

Salve and other well-known lawyers claimed that Section 17A should be applied retroactively, highlighting the fact that the investigation into Naidu started in 2021. This viewpoint was in sharp contrast to the State’s claim that the investigation had started earlier than 2018. The state government was commanded to supply the high court with copies of all pertinent papers as soon as the hearing was ended. Salve forcefully claimed, citing the Standard Operating Procedure released by the Government of India on the application of Section 17A, that approval from the Governor should have been requested before adding Naidu as an accused. He emphasised that the Act’s interpretation should be guided by its main goal of fighting corruption.

Salve further argued that while the lawsuit focused mostly on various businesses accused of misuse of public funds, it did not directly charge the former Andhra Pradesh CM. Salve did not ask for the case to be referred back to the High Court despite the State’s efforts to show that the investigation had started before the 2018 amendment, as the High Court had earlier determined that the timing of the offence was the key criterion for Section 17A’s application.

The entire legal dispute revolves around allegations of theft of approximately Rs 371 crore from the Andhra Pradesh Skill Development Corporation during Naidu’s tenure as Chief Minister. His detention and the ensuing legal fighting received a lot of media attention, which sparked discussions about legal nuances and the role of public workers in corruption cases. The case continues to be a topic of discussion as it relates to political accountability, legal complexities, and the use of Section 17A in cases of corruption. As the courts attempt to answer these difficult legal issues, Naidu’s future now hangs in the balance, making this case a matter to closely follow.

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Dua Lipa: The Global Pop Sensation Redefining Modern Music and Culture

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Dua Lipa has quickly become one of the most influential and celebrated artists of her generation. Known for her velvety voice, empowering lyrics, and bold style, she has transcended the boundaries of pop music to become a global icon. With a career that skyrocketed in just a few years, Dua Lipa continues to prove that she is not just a star but a force reshaping modern music and culture.

Her rise to fame began with her self-titled debut album, which featured hits like New Rules—a modern anthem for self-respect and independence. Dua’s ability to blend dance beats with emotional depth became her signature, solidifying her position as a pop powerhouse. Her sophomore album, Future Nostalgia, was a game-changer, earning her multiple Grammy Awards and acclaim for reviving disco and funk influences in contemporary music. Songs like Don’t Start Now and Levitating became global hits, further proving her ability to craft timeless music that resonates across generations.

But Dua Lipa is more than just a chart-topping singer. She has become a style icon, known for her daring and eclectic fashion sense that effortlessly blends haute couture with streetwear. Her appearances on red carpets and collaborations with luxury brands like Versace have cemented her as a trendsetter.

In addition to her music and fashion influence, Dua has used her platform to advocate for causes she believes in. As a second-generation immigrant from Kosovo, she has been vocal about her heritage and has supported initiatives to uplift her community. In 2020, she co-founded Sunny Hill Foundation to help those in need in Kosovo, showcasing her commitment to philanthropy.

Dua’s versatility extends to the business world as well, with ventures such as her podcast At Your Service, where she connects with influential figures to discuss creativity and culture. Her ability to engage with her audience on multiple levels makes her a modern icon who continues to inspire and innovate.

Whether dominating the charts, turning heads with her fashion, or making a difference through her advocacy, Dua Lipa represents the perfect blend of artistry and authenticity. She is not just shaping the future of pop music but also empowering a new generation to embrace individuality and fearlessness.

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Andie MacDowell Opens Up About Rejecting Hollywood’s Unrealistic Standards

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Andie MacDowell is embracing comfort and self-acceptance, especially when it comes to Hollywood’s beauty standards.

During L’Oréal Paris’ Women of Worth Celebration on Nov. 21, the 66-year-old actress reflected on a recent experience that made her reevaluate the pressures she has faced.

“I did a fitting, and the dress was really tight around my waist. It looked so good, but I woke up knowing it wasn’t the right thing for me,” she shared. “Of course, I immediately shamed myself for not being able to fit into this dress. But that’s Hollywood — this expectation to be something you can no longer be. I’m too old to starve myself for 5 pounds nonstop. I just can’t do it anymore.”

MacDowell noted that societal and industry expectations often push unattainable ideals, a reality she sees reflected in her work and personal life. “I used to live in Montana. When I’m at home, I feel skinny. It’s only when I come out here that I feel like the bar is raised so high, and the expectations are beyond anything anybody can accomplish unless you’re completely devoted to being skinny.”

She expressed a newfound perspective on her priorities: “I want to learn about birds, walk on the beach, be smart, and read books. I’d rather have the 5 pounds on me and wear something that fits than starve myself just to fit into clothes.”

The Way Home star also touched on the broader impact of these societal pressures, recounting a personal story about her grandniece, who struggled with anorexia at the age of 12. “It’s all from expectations she sees on social media and in the world. It was a really hard battle for her. She’s doing fantastic now, but we can’t keep pushing these expectations on people.”

MacDowell’s candid reflections are a reminder of the importance of self-love and rejecting unattainable standards.

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Meghan Markle Reflects on Holiday Traditions and Building Community with Prince Harry and Their Kids

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The holiday season is a time for family, tradition, and gratitude—something Meghan Markle says she cherishes more with each passing year.

In a recent interview with Marie Claire, the Duchess of Sussex shared insights about celebrating holidays with Prince Harry and their children, Prince Archie, 5, and Princess Lilibet, 3. “Every year it gets better,” Meghan revealed, emphasizing how the magic of traditions evolves as her kids grow.

“At first, you’re just enjoying having them there, even if they don’t fully grasp what’s happening,” Meghan explained. “Now, I can’t wait to see it through their eyes every year.”

For Thanksgiving, Meghan described their approach as “low-key” but deeply meaningful, often sharing their table with friends, including her mother, Doria Ragland, and even icons like Gloria Steinem, who joined the family last year.

For Christmas, the family adds whimsical touches, like leaving “carrots for the reindeer.” Meghan hopes to instill lasting memories in her children through recipes and traditions they can carry into adulthood.

Beyond family celebrations, Meghan is also focused on giving back. Through the Archewell Foundation’s Welcome Project, the Duchess recently hosted a dinner for Afghan women rebuilding their lives in the U.S. Speaking at the event, she highlighted the emotional challenges of displacement and the importance of fostering a sense of belonging.

“These moments of togetherness remind people their life isn’t ending—it’s a new chapter,” Meghan said, reflecting on the resilience of the women involved.

As for helping others feel welcome during the holidays, Meghan kept it simple: “Just think about how you’d want someone to treat you.”

From personal traditions to acts of service, Meghan Markle continues to champion family, community, and the power of connection this holiday season.

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