Andhra Pradesh Liquor Scam: SIT Issues Summons to Ex-MP Vijayasai Reddy
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Synopsis
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) in Andhra Pradesh is investigating a significant liquor scam during the YSRCP rule. Former MP V. Vijayasai Reddy has been summoned to appear before the SIT, amid allegations of corruption and irregularities in the liquor industry, with substantial financial implications for the state.
Key Takeaways
- The SIT is investigating a liquor scam in Andhra Pradesh.
- V. Vijayasai Reddy has been summoned to appear before the SIT.
- Allegations include significant financial irregularities.
- The scam is estimated at Rs 4,000 crore.
- TDP leaders claim connections between YSRCP leaders and liquor manufacturers.
Amaravati, April 15 (NationPress) The Special Investigation Team (SIT), investigating the purported liquor scam in Andhra Pradesh during the regime of the YSR Congress Party, has issued a notice to former MP V. Vijayasai Reddy, instructing him to appear before them.
The former MP is required to attend the SIT office in Vijayawada on April 18.
In January, Vijayasai Reddy resigned from the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) and stepped down as an MP.
The TDP-led NDA government formed the SIT in November of the previous year to look into accusations of misconduct and corruption within the Andhra Pradesh State Beverages Corporation Limited (APSBCL) during the tenure of the YSRCP.
Last month, Vijayasai Reddy distanced himself from the scandal, claiming that Kasireddy Rajasekhar Reddy, the IT advisor to then Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, was responsible for the liquor scam.
On Monday, the SIT carried out searches at the residence and other properties of Rajashekar Reddy in Hyderabad.
Various teams searched Rajashekar Reddy's properties located in and around Hyderabad.
The SIT has already issued notices to Rajasekhar Reddy, requesting his presence, but he has not complied.
TDP leaders have alleged that several YSRCP leaders are connected to liquor manufacturers, who launched multiple local brands, engaged in cash transactions, and facilitated illicit profits.
Reports indicate that the SIT has uncovered the involvement of several political figures, private individuals, and more in the scam. Having gathered statements from liquor producers, it has allegedly confirmed the existence of a scam valued at Rs 4,000 crore.
The investigation team has also traced the financial trail of kickbacks involving a current Lok Sabha member and a former Rajya Sabha member associated with the YSRCP.
In the previous month, TDP MP Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayulu called on Union Home Minister Amit Shah to investigate the liquor scam in Andhra Pradesh, asserting that it surpasses the Delhi liquor scandal.
He claimed that the scam has caused a loss of Rs 18,860 crore to the state treasury from 2019 to 2024 and urged Amit Shah to initiate a probe by the Enforcement Directorate and other federal agencies.
Devarayulu also mentioned in the Lok Sabha that the YSRCP misled the public by initially pledging prohibition, only to later enable a monopolized liquor industry under their control.
