Justice Battu Devanand, who delivered crucial judgements with regard to the farmers of Amaravati, who were opposing the three capitals plan of the previous YSR Congress party government, is now back in Andhra Pradesh high court.
The Central government on Monday notified the transfer of Justice Devanand back to the Andhra Pradesh high court from the Madras high court. In its meeting held on May 26, the Supreme Court collegium recommended his transfer.
He was earlier elevated to the bench as a judge of the Andhra Pradesh high court and took charge on January 13, 2020.
He was later transferred to the Madras high court, where he assumed office on April 10, 2023.
During the previous YSRCP government in Andhra Pradesh, when the state attempted to establish three capitals instead of Amaravati, local farmers launched widespread protests.
They set up tents and staged demonstrations across multiple villages in the Amaravati region. As the government tried to suppress the movement using police force, the farmers had no choice but to approach the courts.
At that time, Justice Devanand handled several petitions filed by these farmers. He delivered key rulings in his distinct style, upholding justice and offering significant relief to the protestors.
His verdicts gave hope to the farmers and increased their faith in the judiciary over the government. Some of his rulings were considered major setbacks for the then YSRCP government.
As a result, Amaravati farmers placed great trust in Justice Devanand’s bench. There were allegations that the YSRCP government tried hard to get him transferred to another state's high court due to his decisions.
However, Justice Devanand remained unfazed and continued his work. Eventually, the Supreme Court collegium transferred him to the Madras high court, and he had to leave Andhra Pradesh.
In recognition of his support and landmark judgments in their favour, Amaravati farmers honoured Justice Devanand before his departure. They had also expressed similar admiration toward the then Chief Justice and other judges who supported their cause.