What’s the Latest on the Andhra Liquor Scam? Judicial Remand of 12 Accused Extended Until August 13
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Synopsis
In a major development, the judicial remand for 12 accused in the Andhra liquor scam has been extended until August 13. This includes prominent figures like YSR Congress MP P.V. Midhun Reddy. The ongoing investigation reveals shocking allegations of corruption involving large sums of money. Stay tuned as we delve into the latest updates on this unfolding scandal!
Key Takeaways
- Judicial remand of 12 accused extended until August 13.
- Prominent figures, including P.V. Midhun Reddy, are implicated.
- Investigation reveals possible Rs 3,500 crore corruption.
- SIT formed to probe extensive irregularities.
- Ongoing inquiry raises questions on political accountability.
Vijayawada, Aug 1 (NationPress) A dedicated Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) court in Vijayawada has announced an extension of the judicial remand for 12 individuals implicated in the Andhra Pradesh liquor scam, including YSR Congress Party MP P.V. Midhun Reddy, until August 13.
Officials from the Special Investigation Team (SIT) presented the accused to the court after their prior remand period concluded.
Nine of the accused were transported from the district jail in Vijayawada, while two others were brought from Guntur jail. Meanwhile, Midhun Reddy was brought to court from Rajahmundry Jail.
The Lok Sabha member representing Rajampet was taken into custody on July 19 and has been held in judicial custody since August 1.
During the previous hearing on July 22, the custody of 11 other accused was also extended until August 1.
Among the accused are Kasireddy Rajashekar Reddy, a former IT adviser to ex-Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy; K. Dhanunjaya Reddy, Secretary in the Chief Minister's Office; Krishna Mohan Reddy, Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the former Chief Minister; Balaji Govindappa, Director of Bharati Cements; and former MLA Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy, among others.
After the court's decision to extend their custody, the accused were returned to jail.
The alleged scam took place during the administration of the YSR Congress Party from 2019 to 2024.
Following the TDP-led NDA assuming power last year, a case was filed at the CID Police Station in Mangalagiri under various sections of the IPC and the Prevention of Corruption Act 1988.
The initial investigation was conducted by the Crime Investigation Department (CID) after a complaint from an Excise Department official. Subsequently, the government established the SIT, led by NTR District Commissioner of Police S.V. Rajashekhar Babu, to further investigate.
The SIT reportedly uncovered significant irregularities and financial misappropriation linked to the liquor policy enacted during 2019-24.
Reports indicate that an extensive kickback scheme was identified, involving approximately Rs 3,500 crore being siphoned off over five years.
Allegations suggest that YSR Congress Party leaders promoted a new liquor policy, introduced new brands, and received kickbacks from distillery companies, leading to substantial government losses.
A preliminary charge sheet was filed by the SIT on July 19, naming former Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy as a beneficiary of the kickbacks, although he has not been formally charged in this case.
Point of View
We uphold the responsibility to report on issues of public interest with integrity and impartiality. The ongoing investigation into the Andhra liquor scam raises critical questions about governance and accountability in political leadership. We remain committed to providing our audience with thorough coverage while respecting the legal processes involved.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Andhra liquor scam?
The Andhra liquor scam involves allegations of corruption and misappropriation of funds linked to the liquor policy implemented by the YSR Congress Party between 2019 and 2024.
Who are the main accused in the case?
Key figures include YSR Congress MP P.V. Midhun Reddy, former IT Adviser Kasireddy Rajashekar Reddy, and several others associated with the state's liquor policy.
What is the significance of the judicial remand extension?
The extension of judicial remand until August 13 allows authorities to continue their investigation and gather more evidence against the accused.
What amounts of money are involved in the scam?
Investigators have uncovered a network involving approximately Rs 3,500 crore that may have been siphoned off through corrupt practices.
Has former Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy been charged?
While he is mentioned in the preliminary charge sheet, he has not been formally charged as an accused in the case.
