Andhra Liquor Scam: Raj Kasireddy Interrogated by SIT
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Synopsis
The SIT is interrogating Raj Kasireddy regarding his alleged involvement in a massive liquor scam in Andhra Pradesh. He is suspected of being a key player in the illegal collection of approximately Rs 3,000 crore over five years. Despite his denials, the investigation continues to gather evidence against him and other implicated individuals.
Key Takeaways
- Raj Kasireddy is the main suspect in the Andhra liquor scam.
- He was arrested at Hyderabad Airport and is under investigation.
- The SIT has identified links between YSRCP leaders and the scam.
- Kasireddy previously served as IT advisor to the YSRCP government.
- The alleged illegal collection amounts to nearly Rs 3,000 crore.
Vijayawada, April 22 (NationPress) The Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the alleged liquor scam in Andhra Pradesh has interrogated Raj Kasireddy, the primary suspect in this case.
The SIT officials conducted their questioning during the night of Monday to Tuesday, focusing on the involvement of various individuals in the extensive multi-crore scam.
Kasireddy faced intense questioning based on the testimonies provided by former Rajya Sabha member and YSRCP leader V. Vijaya Sai Reddy and Rajampet MP P.V. Midhun Reddy.
He was detained by the SIT at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in Hyderabad on Monday, before being transported to Vijayawada later that night.
During the night, he was interrogated by SIT officials and again the following morning.
SIT officials notified Kasireddy's parents regarding his arrest, and he is expected to be presented in court later today.
His arrest occurred immediately after his return to Hyderabad from Goa. The SIT had previously issued him four notices, which he had neglected to respond to.
Kasireddy sought anticipatory bail from the High Court, but after the court denied immediate relief and postponed the hearing for a week, he released an audio message stating his intent to appear before the SIT on Tuesday.
However, shortly thereafter, the SIT apprehended him at the Hyderabad Airport and transported him to Vijayawada.
He is believed to be a key figure in the alleged illegal collection of nearly Rs 3,000 crore over a span of five years.
Kasireddy, who previously served as the IT advisor for the YSRCP government, has denied any involvement in these allegations.
Last week, the SIT executed searches at his residence and other properties in Hyderabad. Kasireddy's father, Upender Reddy, also appeared before the SIT for questioning over two days.
The TDP-led NDA government established the SIT in November of last year to investigate claims of misconduct and corruption within the Andhra Pradesh State Beverages Corporation Limited (APSBCL) during the YSRCP administration.
TDP leaders accused certain YSRCP members of having connections with liquor manufacturers, creating multiple local brands, executing cash payments, and generating illicit funds.
Reports indicate that the SIT has identified involvement from various political figures, private individuals, and others in this scam.
The investigation team has reportedly traced the financial flows of kickbacks involving a current Lok Sabha member and a former Rajya Sabha member from the YSRCP.
Former MP Vijayasai Reddy, who resigned from the YSRCP and his MP position in January, appeared before the SIT as a witness on April 18.
The former Rajya Sabha member labeled Kasireddy as the mastermind behind the scheme, indicating he could disclose more information regarding the scandal.
In a social media post on Tuesday, Vijayasai Reddy claimed that he is acting as a whistleblower in this situation, asserting that those involved in the scam are attempting to drag his name into their wrongdoing.
He stated that he has not received any money, and that those implicated have only partially exposed their involvement, promising to aid in fully unveiling the truth.
