Andhra Pradesh – The massive ₹3,500 crore Liquor Scam Case has taken a dramatic turn with the filing of a comprehensive 305-page chargesheet that names former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy as a primary kickback recipient. While not formally listed as an accused, the YSRCP president allegedly received substantial monthly payments averaging ₹50-60 crore throughout his tenure from 2019 to 2024.
The Liquor Scam Case chargesheet, filed by Andhra Pradesh police in a local Amaravati court, has sent shockwaves through the political landscape. The document details an elaborate network of financial transactions and policy manipulations that allegedly facilitated one of the state’s largest corruption scandals in recent memory.
Detailed Money Trail Exposed in Investigation
According to the Liquor Scam Case chargesheet, the money flow involved multiple intermediaries before reaching the former Chief Minister. Kesireddy Rajasekhar Reddy, identified as the primary accused (A-1), allegedly masterminded the entire operation and served as the conduit for distributing kickbacks to various political figures.
The Liquor Scam Case investigation revealed that Rajasekhar Reddy would transfer funds to Vijay Sai Reddy (A-5), Mithun Reddy (A-4), and Balaji (A-33), who would then ensure the money reached Jagan Mohan Reddy. This systematic approach to fund distribution demonstrates the sophisticated nature of the alleged corruption network operating during the YSRCP regime.
Systematic Policy Manipulation and Control
The Liquor Scam Case chargesheet highlights how the accused allegedly influenced excise policy decisions to maximize their financial gains. Rajasekhar Reddy reportedly replaced the automated Order for Supply (OFS) system with manual processes, creating opportunities for selective approvals and enhanced control over liquor distribution networks.
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Furthermore, the Liquor Scam Case documents indicate that loyalists were strategically placed within the Andhra Pradesh State Beverages Corporation Limited (APSBCL) to facilitate the manipulation of liquor policies. This systematic approach ensured that the accused maintained comprehensive control over both supply chains and regulatory mechanisms.
Shell Companies and Financial Networks
The Liquor Scam Case investigation uncovered the creation of multiple shell distilleries designed to legitimize illegal financial transactions. Rajasekhar Reddy allegedly established these fake entities to channel kickbacks more efficiently while maintaining a veneer of legitimate business operations.
Additionally, the Liquor Scam Case chargesheet reveals that funds were laundered through over 30 shell firms, demonstrating the extensive nature of the money laundering network. These companies served dual purposes: facilitating illegal fund transfers and providing cover for the massive cash flows generated through the alleged corruption scheme.
Electoral Funding and Cash Routing
The Liquor Scam Case documents expose how approximately ₹250-300 crore in cash was allegedly routed for electoral purposes on behalf of YSRCP. This massive financial operation involved coordination between Rajasekhar Reddy and former MLA Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy, highlighting the intersection between corruption proceeds and political campaign financing.
The Liquor Scam Case investigation suggests that these electoral funds were strategically deployed to maintain political power and ensure continued control over excise policies. This cyclical relationship between corruption proceeds and political influence represents a significant aspect of the alleged scandal.
Asset Acquisition and Wealth Accumulation
Proceeds from the Liquor Scam Case were allegedly invested in acquiring substantial assets across multiple jurisdictions. The chargesheet indicates that funds were used to purchase land, gold, and luxury assets in Dubai and Africa, demonstrating the international scope of the alleged money laundering operations.
This diversified investment strategy in the Liquor Scam Case suggests sophisticated financial planning designed to obscure the illegal origins of the funds while simultaneously protecting accumulated wealth from potential legal action or asset seizure efforts.
Jagan Reddy’s Response and Political Implications
Responding to the Liquor Scam Case allegations, Jagan Mohan Reddy dismissed the charges as a “manufactured narrative” designed for media attention and political diversion. He claimed that the entire case relies on statements obtained through pressure, threats, and torture, questioning the investigation’s credibility and methodology.
The Liquor Scam Case has significant political ramifications for YSRCP and its leadership. With the party already facing electoral setbacks, these corruption allegations could further damage its reputation and influence in Andhra Pradesh politics.
Recent Arrests and Ongoing Investigation
The Liquor Scam Case investigation has resulted in multiple arrests, including YSRCP Lok Sabha member PV Midhun Reddy, who was detained by the Special Investigation Team after extensive interrogation. These arrests demonstrate the expanding scope of the investigation and law enforcement’s commitment to pursuing all involved parties.
The Enforcement Directorate has also initiated a parallel money laundering investigation into the Liquor Scam Case, adding federal oversight to the state-level proceedings. This dual-track approach ensures comprehensive examination of both corruption and financial crimes aspects of the alleged scandal.
As the legal proceedings continue, the Liquor Scam Case represents a significant test of Andhra Pradesh’s commitment to transparency and accountability in governance, with potential implications extending far beyond the immediate political consequences.