Could Rs 11 Crore Cash Seized from Guesthouse Unravel the Andhra Liquor Scam?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a dramatic turn of events in the Andhra Pradesh liquor scam investigation, the SIT has recovered Rs 11 crore in cash from a guesthouse near Hyderabad. As the probe deepens, shocking revelations about kickbacks and high-profile suspects are emerging, raising critical questions about corruption during the YSR Congress Party’s rule.
Key Takeaways
- Rs 11 crore in cash seized from a guesthouse.
- Investigation led by the SIT targeting high-profile individuals.
- Allegations of extensive kickback schemes involving Rs 3,500 crore.
- Key suspects include former officials and party leaders.
- Need for accountability in governance highlighted.
Vijayawada, July 30 (NationPress) In a significant development regarding the Andhra Pradesh liquor scam, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has uncovered a staggering Rs 11 crore in cash from a guesthouse located near Hyderabad.
The currency was found stored in 12 cardboard boxes at the Sulochana Farm Guesthouse in Kacharam, situated in the Shamshabad mandal of the Rangareddy district, as per sources.
This seizure occurred during searches of the residences and offices of individuals implicated in the scam, which allegedly unfolded during the tenure of the YSR Congress Party.
Additionally, liquor was found concealed on the premises. According to SIT sources, the cash and liquor were hidden under the instructions of Kesireddy Rajashekar Reddy, identified as the main suspect.
The guesthouse was searched following information provided by Varun Purshottam, the 40th accused in the case.
The investigation is also looking into the involvement of Chanikya and Vinay, both implicated in the affair, regarding the concealment of the cash. Sources indicate that Varun, under the guidance of Kesireddy and Chanikya, hid the cash in the 12 boxes.
During interrogation, Varun reportedly admitted his involvement and disclosed details about the cash and liquor.
The alleged scam is said to have taken place during the YSRCP's governance from 2019 to 2024.
Following the election of the TDP-led NDA last year, a case was initiated at the CID Police Station in Mangalagiri, citing sections 409, 420, 120 (B), r/w 34 and 37 of the IPC and sections 7, 7A, 8, 12, 13 (1), (b), 13 (2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act 1988.
Initially, the Crime Investigation Department (CID) began probing the matter after a complaint from an Excise Department official. Subsequently, the government established an SIT, led by NTR District Commissioner of Police S.V. Rajashekhar Babu, to further investigate the case.
The SIT discovered extensive irregularities and misappropriation of funds related to the liquor policy enacted between 2019 and 2024.
Investigators have reported uncovering a kickback scheme involving approximately Rs 3,500 crore siphoned off over five years.
Allegations suggest that leaders from the YSR Congress Party promoted the new liquor policy, introduced new brands, and accepted kickbacks from distillery firms, resulting in substantial losses for the government.
To date, the SIT has apprehended 12 suspects, including YSRCP MP P. V. Midhun Reddy.
Key suspects include Kesireddy Rajashekar Reddy, former IT Advisor 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 to the then Chief Minister; director of Bharati Cements Balaji Govindappa; former MLA Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy; Rajashekar Reddy’s aide Dilip Kumar; Chanikya; and Sajjala Sridhar Reddy.
The SIT submitted a preliminary charge sheet on July 19, which names former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy as a recipient of kickbacks, although he has not been formally accused.
This charge sheet claims that from 2019 to 2024, an average of Rs 50 to 60 crore was collected monthly from distilleries and funneled through a network of aides and shell companies.
Point of View
The unfolding details of the Andhra Pradesh liquor scam reflect a troubling narrative of alleged corruption at high levels of governance. The revelations of hidden cash and the involvement of prominent political figures underscore the necessity for transparency and accountability in public office. The ongoing investigation by the SIT is critical for restoring public trust and ensuring that justice prevails in this intricate case.
NationPress
30/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was seized in the Andhra liquor scam case?
The SIT seized Rs 11 crore in cash and hidden liquor from a guesthouse near Hyderabad.
Who is the main accused in the case?
Kesireddy Rajashekar Reddy is identified as the prime suspect in the liquor scam.
What actions have been taken by the SIT?
The SIT has conducted searches, made arrests, and filed a preliminary charge sheet regarding the scam.
How much money is linked to the alleged kickback scheme?
Investigators have uncovered a kickback network involving approximately Rs 3,500 crore.
Which political party is implicated in the scam?
The YSR Congress Party is alleged to have played a significant role in the corruption.
