What led to the arrest of YSRCP leader Jogi Ramesh in the spurious liquor case?
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Synopsis
In a shocking twist to the ongoing spurious liquor investigation, YSR Congress Party leader Jogi Ramesh has been arrested. Allegations of political maneuvering and illicit liquor production are at the forefront of this developing story, raising questions about the integrity of the investigation.
Key Takeaways
- Jogi Ramesh arrested on spurious liquor charges.
- Allegations involve political motivations behind the case.
- Ramesh requests a CBI inquiry for a fair investigation.
- Accusations of illegal liquor production directed by Ramesh.
- Both YSRCP and TDP trade accusations over the spurious liquor issue.
Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh), Nov 2 (NationPress) Former Andhra Pradesh minister and leader of the YSR Congress Party, Jogi Ramesh, was taken into custody on Sunday in connection with the spurious liquor case.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT), which is investigating the matter, apprehended him at his home in Ibrahimpatnam, located in the NTR district. His associate, Arepalli Ramu, was also detained.
Ramesh was subsequently transported to the Excise Department office in Vijayawada, where he is currently undergoing questioning by the SIT officials.
Addepalli Janardhana Rao, the key suspect in this case, has claimed that the illegal liquor was produced under Ramesh's instruction.
In a widely circulated video last month, Janardhana Rao stated that he ceased the production of illicit liquor following the TDP-led NDA's rise to power, but received a call from Ramesh in April urging him to resume operations.
The prime suspect also alleged that Ramesh promised him Rs 3 crore to establish a distillery in Africa.
Janardhana Rao reportedly informed law enforcement that during Ramesh's tenure as minister in 2023, he commenced the illicit liquor production in Ibrahimpatnam. He mentioned visiting Ramesh at his residence in Ibrahimpatnam on September 23 before his trip to Africa.
Ramesh's arrest took place just a day after he submitted a petition to the Andhra Pradesh High Court requesting a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the high-profile spurious liquor case.
He contended that the ruling coalition is intentionally attempting to frame him for political gain, describing the ongoing state police investigation as biased and politically motivated.
The YSRCP leader insisted that only a central agency like the CBI could carry out a thorough and unbiased investigation. He urged the High Court to mandate the transfer of the investigations related to two FIRs filed at Mulakalacheruvu and Bhavanipuram police stations to the CBI.
Ramesh also called for the CBI to look into his complaint filed on October 15, which came after the release of a video statement given by Janardhana Rao while in police custody. He claimed that the video appeared to have been recorded under pressure.
Both the TDP and YSRCP are trading accusations regarding the spurious liquor issue, with YSRCP representatives alleging that TDP members are operating an extensive illicit racket.
Last week, the opposition party filed a complaint with the Director General of Police, alleging that the ruling coalition was executing a politically motivated IVRS campaign to divert public attention from their involvement in the alleged illicit liquor operation uncovered in Andhra Pradesh.
Point of View
I view the arrest of Jogi Ramesh amid allegations of spurious liquor production as a significant development in Andhra Pradesh's political arena. It underscores the complexities of governance and the potential misuse of power. The ongoing investigation raises critical questions about accountability and the need for transparency in political practices.
NationPress
05/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges has Jogi Ramesh faced?
Jogi Ramesh has been arrested in connection with a spurious liquor case involving allegations of directing illegal liquor production.
Who else was arrested along with Jogi Ramesh?
His aide, Arepalli Ramu, was also arrested in the same case.
What is Jogi Ramesh's response to the allegations?
Ramesh claims that the investigation is politically motivated and has requested a CBI inquiry for a fair investigation.
What are the accusations against Addepalli Janardhana Rao?
Janardhana Rao, the prime accused, alleges that Jogi Ramesh directed him to continue producing spurious liquor.
Why did Jogi Ramesh seek a CBI investigation?
He believes that only a central agency can conduct an impartial probe into the allegations against him.
