Did Two Former Bureaucrats Appear Before SIT in Andhra Liquor Scam?
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Synopsis
The ongoing investigation into a multi-crore liquor scam in Andhra Pradesh sees former bureaucrats K. Dhanunjaya Reddy and Krishna Mohan Reddy summoned by the Special Investigation Team. Their appearance raises critical questions about governance and accountability within the YSR Congress Party's tenure. Can justice prevail in this expansive case?
Key Takeaways
- Former bureaucrats are under scrutiny in a significant corruption case.
- The SIT investigation highlights governance issues in Andhra Pradesh.
- Accusations involve kickbacks and financial misconduct.
- Legal proceedings are ongoing with implications for public trust.
- Citizen awareness and engagement are crucial for accountability.
Vijayawada, May 14 (NationPress) K. Dhanunjaya Reddy, a retired IAS official and former secretary to the ex-chief minister of Andhra Pradesh, Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, along with Krishna Mohan Reddy, former Officer on Special Duty (OSD), appeared on Wednesday before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the extensive liquor scam.
The officials from SIT were conducting their inquiries at the SIT office located within the Vijayawada Commissionerate.
Dhanunjaya Reddy and Krishna Mohan Reddy are identified as accused numbers 31 and 32 in this case concerning the alleged corruption that occurred during the governance of the YSR Congress Party.
In response to their pleas for anticipatory bail, the Supreme Court instructed the SIT not to take any action against the accused until May 16, while requiring their presence before the SIT.
Recently, the SIT included them in the liquor scam case alongside Balaji Govindappa, the Director of Bharati Cements, who is accused number 33. Govindappa was apprehended by the SIT in Mysuru, Karnataka, and subsequently transported to Vijayawada.
Last week, the SIT issued notices to Govindappa and two other individuals, mandating their appearance at the Vijayawada Commissionerate on May 12 for questioning. However, they failed to show up.
On May 7, the Andhra Pradesh High Court dismissed their anticipatory bail applications, citing the preliminary phase of the investigation into the alleged Rs 3,200 crore scam.
Allegations suggest that leaders from the YSR Congress Party promoted a new liquor policy, introduced new brands during their governance, accepted kickbacks from distillery firms, and inflicted substantial losses on the government.
Raj Kasireddy, the principal accused in this case, was reportedly delivering bribes to the trio after collecting funds from liquor company owners.
On April 21, the SIT apprehended Kasireddy, believed to have been instrumental in the alleged unlawful collection of nearly Rs 3,000 crore over a five-year duration. He served as the IT advisor to the then chief minister, Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy.
The TDP-led NDA government established the SIT in November of the previous year to probe allegations of malpractice and corruption within the Andhra Pradesh State Beverages Corporation Limited (APSBCL) during the YSRCP administration.
Point of View
The involvement of former bureaucrats in the Andhra liquor scam illustrates the deep-rooted issues of accountability and transparency in governance. While the investigation unfolds, it is crucial to uphold the principles of justice and ensure that all parties are given a fair opportunity to clarify their roles. The nation watches closely as this case progresses.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Andhra liquor scam?
The Andhra liquor scam refers to allegations of corruption involving the YSR Congress Party during its administration, where leaders allegedly received kickbacks from distillery companies and introduced new liquor policies that caused significant financial losses to the government.
Who are the main accused in the case?
The main accused include K. Dhanunjaya Reddy, Krishna Mohan Reddy, and Raj Kasireddy, with others like Balaji Govindappa also implicated.
What happened during the recent SIT questioning?
K. Dhanunjaya Reddy and Krishna Mohan Reddy appeared before the SIT for questioning regarding their roles in the liquor scam, while the Supreme Court has provided some protection against immediate arrest.
What is the expected outcome of this investigation?
The investigation aims to uncover the extent of corruption and hold accountable those involved, ensuring that justice is served and governance is restored.
How has the public reacted to the liquor scam allegations?
Public perception is mixed, with many expressing concern over the integrity of public officials and the need for transparency in government operations.
