Will Andhra Pradesh Investigate the Spurious Liquor Scandal?
Synopsis
In a decisive move, the Andhra Pradesh government has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the alarming spurious liquor case in Mulakalacheruvu. With high-profile arrests and a commitment to reform, the Chief Minister emphasizes accountability across all political affiliations. What measures will the government implement to ensure safety and transparency?
Key Takeaways
Formation of SIT: A Special Investigation Team has been formed to probe the spurious liquor case.
Leadership: The SIT is led by Inspector GVG Ashok Kumar.
Accountability: 23 suspects identified with 16 arrests made, including the main accused.
AP Excise Suraksha App: An app has been introduced to track liquor sales and ensure authenticity.
Political Stance: The government emphasizes no political shielding for the accused.
Amaravati, Oct 12 (NationPress) The government of Andhra Pradesh has established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to look into the Mulakalacheruvu spurious liquor incident.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu revealed on Sunday that the SIT will be led by GVG Ashok Kumar, Inspector of Police for Eluru Range. The team comprises IPS officers Rahul Dev Varma, Mallika Garg, and K. Chakravarthi, along with an expert from the Excise Department.
During a press conference, the Chief Minister stated that the SIT would conduct a comprehensive investigation into the matter and initiate a total overhaul of the system.
Naidu mentioned that 23 individuals have been identified in connection with this case, with 16 arrests made, including the principal suspect, Janardhan.
He also disclosed the suspension of a Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader due to his alleged involvement in the scandal. The Chief Minister emphasized that the government would take stringent action against all accused, regardless of their political connections, asserting that no one attempting to evade accountability under a political guise would be protected.
Naidu claimed that the origins of the spurious liquor trace back to Africa, stating that certain individuals are conspiring to replicate this situation in Andhra Pradesh. He asserted that TDP leaders were the first to bring the spurious liquor issue in Mulakalacheruvu to light.
The Chief Minister expressed astonishment at some parties requesting a CBI inquiry to evade responsibility, criticizing the prior government for promoting its own brands and legalizing the entire liquor system by forcibly owning shops, transportation, and distilleries.
Naidu remarked that ganja cultivation was commercialized, leading to a surge in drug-related issues during the 2019-24 period. He accused those committing crimes under the guise of politics of launching a false campaign against the government regarding the spurious liquor issue. He highlighted that the previous administration failed to respond adequately, even after 27 fatalities occurred in Jangareddygudem, and are now blaming the current government.
The Chief Minister issued a stern warning to Excise Department personnel, stating that they must adhere to the law or face consequences for misconduct.
He introduced the AP Excise Suraksha App to combat the spurious liquor problem, which will track the manufacturing and sales details of liquor bottles.
Liquor shop owners must scan the bottle prior to sale, and consumers can also scan bottles to verify their authenticity. The app is designed to tackle the belt shop issue, as shops will be geo-tagged.
Point of View
The establishment of the SIT in Andhra Pradesh reflects a significant commitment to tackling the pressing issue of spurious liquor, which poses serious health risks. The government's proactive stance could set a precedent for accountability, ensuring that political affiliations do not interfere with justice. As the investigation progresses, it will be crucial to monitor the effectiveness of the new initiatives introduced to safeguard public health.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the SIT formed by the Andhra Pradesh government?
The SIT is established to investigate the spurious liquor case in Mulakalacheruvu, aiming to bring accountability and reform to the system.
Who is leading the SIT?
The SIT is led by GVG Ashok Kumar, the Inspector of Police for Eluru Range.
What actions have been taken against the accused?
So far, 23 individuals have been identified, with 16 arrests made, including the main suspect Janardhan.
What measures are being implemented to prevent spurious liquor sales?
The Andhra Pradesh government has introduced the AP Excise Suraksha App to trace the manufacturing and sales of liquor bottles.
How does the AP Excise Suraksha App work?
The app allows liquor shop owners to scan bottles before sale and consumers to verify the authenticity of the liquor they purchase.
