What’s New in the Andhra Pradesh Liquor Scam? SIT Files Additional Charge Sheet
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Synopsis
In a significant move, the Special Investigation Team has filed an additional charge sheet in the Andhra Pradesh liquor scam, revealing the involvement of key officials and substantial financial misconduct. This new development adds layers to the ongoing investigation and raises questions about the political implications.
Key Takeaways
- SIT's additional charge sheet reveals new details in the liquor scam.
- Focus on key accused individuals connected to the government.
- Investigation highlights significant financial misconduct.
- The case raises important political implications.
- Further developments are expected as the investigation progresses.
Vijayawada, Aug 11 (NationPress) The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has taken significant steps in the investigation of the liquor scam purportedly linked to the YSRCP regime by filing an additional charge sheet on Monday.
This extensive 200-page document was submitted to the ACB court here.
Within this charge sheet, the SIT has concentrated on the involvement of three key individuals: K. Dhanunjay Reddy, the Secretary in the Chief Minister’s Office; Krishna Mohan Reddy, Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the previous Chief Minister; and Balaji Govindappa, the director of Bharati Cements. They are identified as accused number 31, 32, and 33 respectively.
The investigation delves into illicit cash transfers by the accused, including a notable seizure of Rs.11 crore near Hyderabad, which is also detailed in the additional charge sheet. Furthermore, the SIT has uncovered connections between these three individuals and the principal accused, Kasireddy Rajashekhar Reddy, the former IT advisor to ex-Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy.
This latest charge sheet elucidates the methods used to funnel cash to the ultimate beneficiaries.
Previously, on July 19, the SIT had submitted an initial charge sheet that implicated nine companies and seven individuals.
To date, a total of 19 companies and 29 individuals have been named as defendants in this case.
The SIT has arrested 12 individuals, including YSRCP MP Peddireddy Midhun Reddy. Those detained include Kasireddy (A1), Buneti Chanakya (A8), Pyla Dileep (A30), Sajjala Sridhar Reddy (A6), K. Dhanunjay Reddy (A31), P. Krishnamohan Reddy (A32), Govindappa Balaji (A33), Venkatesh Naidu (A34), Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy (A38), Peddireddy Midhun Reddy (A4), Balaji Kumar Yadav (A35), and E. Naveen Krishna.
The SIT continues its investigation, with a third charge sheet anticipated in the near future.
In its first charge sheet, the SIT asserted that the accused formed a syndicate to amass commissions or kickbacks from distillery companies, allegedly generating approximately Rs 3,500 crore from 2019 to 2024.
Moreover, the charge sheet indicated that YSRCP president and former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy was among the recipients of these kickbacks.
While Jagan Mohan Reddy's name appears in the 305-page charge sheet, he has not been formally charged in the case.
The SIT claims that syndicate members issued purchase orders to companies willing to comply with their commission demands, suppressed established brands, promoted new liquor products, and coerced managements to remit commissions, all while maintaining a manual system to facilitate the collection of vast sums.
On average, Rs 50 to 60 crore was collected monthly from distilleries and funneled through a network of associates and shell companies.
According to the charge sheet, the liquor policy devised by the YSRCP government allowed accused officials full control over alcohol distribution, enabling them to extract significant commissions. The majority of these kickbacks were received in cash, gold, or bullion.
The SIT reported that the kickbacks began at 12 percent of the base price before increasing to 20 percent.
Point of View
It's essential to remain unbiased while covering the developments in the Andhra Pradesh liquor scam. The ongoing investigation by the SIT is crucial for upholding accountability and transparency in governance. The allegations are serious, and as the case progresses, it is vital to ensure that all parties involved are treated fairly within the judicial process.
NationPress
24/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Andhra Pradesh liquor scam?
The Andhra Pradesh liquor scam involves allegations of financial misconduct and corruption linked to officials during the YSRCP regime, focusing on kickbacks from distilleries.
Who are the key accused in the case?
Key accused include K. Dhanunjay Reddy, Krishna Mohan Reddy, and Balaji Govindappa, among others, with connections to prominent political figures.
What did the SIT uncover in the recent charge sheet?
The SIT's recent charge sheet reveals significant cash transfers, the formation of a syndicate for kickbacks, and the involvement of high-ranking officials.
How much money is alleged to have been collected through the scam?
It is alleged that approximately Rs 3,500 crore was collected through the scam from 2019 to 2024.
What is the next step in the investigation?
The SIT is expected to file a third charge sheet as it continues its investigation into the scam.
