Did Ex-MP Vijayasai Reddy Appear Before ED in Liquor Case?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Vijayasai Reddy questioned by the ED regarding a major liquor scam.
- The scam reportedly involves Rs 3,500 crore.
- The investigation is based on an FIR from the Andhra Pradesh Police.
- Several political figures and retired officials are implicated.
- The case highlights the need for accountability in governance.
Hyderabad, Jan 22 (NationPress) – On Thursday, former Rajya Sabha member V. Vijayasai Reddy presented himself to the Enforcement Directorate for interrogation related to a significant liquor scam involving multiple crores.
The ex-leader of the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) attended the agency's regional office in Hyderabad for questioning by ED officials.
The ED is currently investigating allegations of money laundering tied to a staggering Rs 3,500 crore liquor scam that reportedly unfolded during the YSRCP administration.
This investigation was initiated based on a First Information Report (FIR) filed by the Andhra Pradesh Police.
Vijayasai Reddy, who resigned from the YSRCP and his Rajya Sabha position in January of the previous year, has faced questioning twice from the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Andhra Pradesh police, which is also looking into the matter.
The ED has scheduled an interrogation for YSRCP MP PV Midhun Reddy on Friday (January 23).
Midhun Reddy, an accused in this case, was arrested on July 19 and subsequently released on bail on September 30.
This case is linked to a multi-crore scandal involving manipulation of excise policies and illicit payments from distilleries.
After the TDP-led NDA took power in 2024, a case was filed at the CID Police Station in Mangalagiri under pertinent sections of the IPC and the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) first began the investigation after a complaint from an Excise Department official. Subsequently, the government established the SIT, led by S.V. Rajashekhar Babu, NTR District Commissioner of Police, to conduct a thorough inquiry.
The SIT uncovered extensive irregularities and misappropriation of funds linked to the liquor policy in effect from 2019 to 2024.
Investigators have reportedly discovered a kickback scheme involving nearly Rs 3,500 crore that was siphoned off over five years.
Allegations suggest that leaders of the YSR Congress Party promoted the new liquor policy, launched new brands, and accepted kickbacks from distillery firms, inflicting substantial losses on the government.
The SIT has identified several individuals as accused, including MPs, retired IAS officers, distillery companies, and owners of shell companies.