Andhra Pradesh Liquor Scam: Vijayasai Reddy Interrogated by SIT
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Synopsis
Former MP V. Vijayasai Reddy was interrogated by the SIT in Vijayawada concerning the alleged multi-crore liquor scam during the YSR Congress Party's governance. Reddy denied knowledge of kickbacks and identified Raj Kasireddy as the mastermind behind the scheme.
Key Takeaways
- Vijayasai Reddy questioned about two significant meetings.
- Claims no involvement in liquor sales or knowledge of kickbacks.
- Raj Kasireddy identified as the mastermind behind the scam.
- SIT issued lookout notices for Kasireddy.
- Alleged loss to the state treasury estimated at Rs 18,860 crore.
Vijayasai Reddy, the former MP, appeared before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) on April 18, 2023, in Vijayawada. The SIT is investigating the alleged multi-crore liquor scam that took place during the regime of the YSR Congress Party.
Summoned as a witness, Reddy was questioned for almost three hours. He informed the media that officials inquired about two significant meetings, detailing their discussions and attendees.
Reddy, who resigned from the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) and his MP position in January, disclosed that the initial meeting occurred in Hyderabad and the subsequent one in Vijayawada, focusing on liquor policy.
When asked about potential kickbacks, he claimed to have no knowledge of such dealings, stating he was unaware of who received funds collected by Raj Kasireddy.
Reddy emphasized that he never interfered in liquor sales and asserted that all queries regarding the matter should be directed towards Kasireddy, whom he described as the mastermind behind the scam. He expressed his astonishment at being deceived by Kasireddy despite their past association, wherein party elders had initially introduced them.
The SIT has previously issued notices to Kasireddy, a principal suspect in this case, who has yet to comply. A lookout notice has been initiated to prevent his escape from the country.
Kasireddy is believed to have been instrumental in the alleged illegal collection of approximately Rs 3,000 crore over five years, serving as the IT advisor to former Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy.
On Monday, the SIT conducted raids on Kasireddy's properties in Hyderabad.
In other developments, Kasireddy’s father, Upender Reddy, appeared before the SIT on Friday, following a six-hour interrogation the day before.
The TDP-led NDA government established the SIT in November 2022 to investigate claims of irregularities and corruption within the Andhra Pradesh State Beverages Corporation Limited (APSBCL) during the YSRCP’s governance.
Leaders from the TDP allege that certain YSRCP members maintained connections with liquor producers, launched several local brands, and engaged in cash transactions leading to illegal gains.
The SIT has reportedly pinpointed involvement from various political figures and private individuals in the scam.
Investigators have traced kickback money linked to a sitting Lok Sabha member and a former Rajya Sabha member affiliated with the YSRCP.
Recently, TDP MP Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayulu urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to probe the liquor scam in Andhra Pradesh, asserting it surpasses the Delhi liquor scandal.
He claimed the scam resulted in a staggering loss of Rs 18,860 crore to the state treasury from 2019 to 2024 and sought an investigation by the Enforcement Directorate and other central agencies.
