The Andhra Pradesh Crime Investigation Department (CID) has opened a new case pertaining to the state’s liquor policy, implicating TDP national president and former chief minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu.The allegations suggest actions that purportedly favored private individuals and entities, resulting in financial loss to the exchequer.
The FIR identifies IS Sri Naresh as the primary accused, followed by former excise minister Kollu Ravindra as the second accused.Naidu has been named as Accused No 3, alongside “unknown public servants and others.”
The complaint leading to the FIR was lodged by D Vasudeva Reddy, Commissioner of Distilleries and Breweries, and Managing Director of the Andhra Pradesh State Beverages Corporation Ltd (APSBCL).
The FIR outlines that the incident took place at the Andhra Pradesh Secretariat in Velagapudi, Amaravati, prior to June 2019, during the TDP’s tenure in power from 2014 to 2019.
According to the FIR, the APSBCL, a statutory entity responsible for liquor distribution in the state, regularly reviewed policies in line with the state’s progressive prohibition agenda.During the period of 2014-2019, certain policy decisions came to light that allegedly led to reduced state revenues while benefiting licensees.
It was discovered that a few distilleries were favored, contrary to the recommendations of a government-appointed committee.Additionally, the FIR highlights instances where suppliers, in collusion with licensees, exaggerated demand for specific products, resulting in skewed projections for the APSBCL.
The FIR asserts that a detailed investigation is essential to uncover potential misconduct and to hold those responsible accountable in the interest of the public.
Naidu is presently in custody under CID arrest in connection with the alleged ₹371 crore AP State Skill Development Corporation scam and has been detained in the Rajamahendravaram Central Prison for over 50 days.
He is also facing allegations in the Fibernet and the Inner Ring Road alignment cases.
