The ongoing investigation into the alleged Andhra Pradesh liquor scam has taken a significant turn with the Special Investigation Team (SIT) seizing a substantial Rs 11 crore in cash. The money was recovered from a farmhouse located on the outskirts of Hyderabad, a key development that is expected to intensify the probe into the scandal that reportedly unfolded during the tenure of the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) government.
The cash seizure was not a random discovery. It came directly as a result of a crucial confession made by Varun Purushotham who is identified as A-40 in the ongoing case. According to sources close to the investigation, Varun Purushotham provided investigators with vital details regarding the money trail involved in the alleged scam. His statement is believed to have reveal key aspects of the operation, including the claim involvement of high-ranking individuals and an intricate financial network. The scam itself is suspected to run into thousands of crores of rupees, suggesting a wide-reaching and sophisticated illegal scheme.
Over the past few days, the SIT has reportedly ramped up its efforts, indicating a focused and determined approach to cracking the case. This intensified investigation has, according to sources, uncovered what investigators claim to be critical evidence that points directly to the role of senior leaders within the YSRCP. This suggests that the scope of the investigation is broadening, moving beyond lower-level operatives to potentially implicate more prominent figures. Officials have strongly hinted that as the probe progresses, more high-profile names could very soon be added to the growing list of accused signaling an imminent escalation in the legal proceedings.
However, the YSRCP has refused these allegations forcefully, characterizing the arrests and the broader investigation as a politically motivated attack by the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) led government currently in power in Andhra Pradesh. The party has consistently maintained that the arrests of individuals such as MP PV Midhun Reddy, former MLA Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy, retired IAS officer K Dhanunjaya Reddy and Officer on Special Duty Krishna Mohan Reddy are part of a calculated crackdown rather than a legitimate legal process.
YSRCP MP YV Subba Reddy has been particularly vocal in his criticism, questioning the very basis of these arrests. "What role did these leaders play in liquor policy or Excise? None," he asserted, challenging the notion that these individuals had any direct influence or responsibility over the state's liquor policy. He went on to describe the situation as a "calculated conspiracy" and clearly labeled it "political vendetta, pure and simple," suggesting that the real motive behind the actions is to target and undermine the YSRCP.
Subba Reddy further expressed deep concerns about the integrity of the investigative body, stating, "The SIT has become a political weapon. This isn’t justice, it’s persecution." He highlighted what he perceives as an abuse of power and even pointed out that "Even the courts are stepping in to stop this abuse," implying that the judiciary has recognized the potential for political misuse of the investigation and is taking action to ensure fairness and due process.
As the SIT continues its detailed forensic audit of financial transactions and scrutinizes more confessions and evidence, the political landscape in Andhra Pradesh remains tense. The outcome of this high-stakes investigation could have significant consequence for several prominent political figures and potentially reshape the political narrative in the state.
