Liquor Scam Sparks Political Storm in Andhra

A massive spurious liquor racket was unearthed in Mulakalacheruvu, Annamayya district, shaking the political foundations of Andhra Pradesh. The illegal operation, involving sophisticated brewing setups and cross-state logistics, has triggered intense scrutiny from both ruling and opposition parties.

The state government swiftly formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by Eluru Range Inspector GVG Ashok Kumar. The SIT uncovered ₹1.75 crore worth of equipment and liquor, with arrests spanning multiple districts. The investigation is part of a broader ₹3,500 crore liquor scam linked to the previous YSRCP regime.

The Telugu Desam Party (TDP), led by Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, suspended Thamballapalle in-charge Jayachandra Reddy following allegations. Meanwhile, YSRCP leaders accused the ruling coalition of shielding the real culprits and demanded a CBI probe. Former minister Roja and MP PV Midhun Reddy publicly called for central intervention, citing public health risks and political protection.

TDP launched an IVRS campaign linking YSRCP leader Jogi Ramesh to prime accused Addepalli Janardhan Rao. In response, Ramesh filed a police complaint, challenging the propaganda and offering to undergo a lie detector test to prove his innocence.

Chandrababu Naidu defended his government’s actions, stating that no political affiliation would shield anyone from accountability. He emphasized the SIT’s independence and warned against misinformation campaigns. The CM also launched the AP Excise Safety App to enhance public vigilance.

The scandal has ignited public anger, especially after the Kurnool bus fire incident, which YSRCP linked to fake liquor consumption. Families affected by the tragedy are demanding justice and stricter enforcement against illicit alcohol networks.

Investigations revealed that the racket involved procurement of spirit and equipment from Bengaluru, with operations managed by individuals from Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Visakhapatnam. The scale and coordination suggest a well-organized syndicate with political backing.

The SIT’s supplementary charge sheet exposed whistleblower alerts ignored during the previous regime, and a money trail involving land acquisitions and policy manipulation. KPMG’s role in shaping excise policies is also under review.

With arrests mounting and political tensions rising, the demand for a CBI probe is gaining traction. The Centre’s response will likely determine the next phase of accountability and reform in Andhra Pradesh’s excise enforcement.