HCA controversy: Former cricket body chief Jagan Mohan Rao granted bail in forgery, fund misuse case

Hyderabad: The Telangana High Court on Thursday granted bail to A Jagan Mohan Rao, former president of the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA), who has been facing serious charges of forgery, financial mismanagement and blackmail linked to the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season.

Bail granted with conditions

Justice Sujana Kalasikam, presiding over a Single Bench, ordered the release of Jagan Mohan Rao on bail. The court directed him to furnish a personal bond of Rs 1 lakh and provide two sureties of the same amount.

Rao has also been instructed to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation and not to influence witnesses.

Arrest following vigilance report

Jagan Mohan Rao’s arrest on July 9 came after a detailed Vigilance and Enforcement report pointed to large-scale irregularities within the HCA.

The report highlighted fraudulent practices adopted by Rao to secure his entry into the association and accused him of threatening Sunrisers Hyderabad officials for complimentary tickets during the IPL season.

CID custody for probe

After his arrest, the Crime Investigation Department (CID) took Rao into custody for six days to gather evidence and interrogate him regarding alleged financial improprieties. Investigators focused on irregular fund transfers, manipulation of accounts, and misuse of HCA resources during his tenure.

Background of the case

Allegations against Jagan Mohan Rao first surfaced in early 2025 when internal disputes within the HCA came to light. Several members accused him of forging documents to establish his authority within the association.

Complaints were also filed regarding the misappropriation of funds meant for cricket development in Hyderabad and threats issued to franchise officials for personal gains.

The Vigilance report submitted to the state government detailed how Rao allegedly manipulated administrative processes, diverted association funds, and engaged in blackmail tactics during the IPL season. These findings led to his arrest and subsequent remand in July 2025.

Ongoing investigation

While granting bail, the High Court clarified that the investigation by the CID will continue. The case has raised fresh concerns about transparency and governance within the Hyderabad Cricket Association, which has faced multiple controversies in recent years.