The liquor scam that allegedly took place during the previous Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy government continues to create political ripples in Andhra Pradesh, with the Special Investigation Team (SIT) filing the preliminary chargesheet in the case on Saturday.
The SIT claimed that the ultimate beneficiary of the kickbacks was Jagan Mohan Reddy.
Though he was not named as an accused, all those arrested were reportedly key players in the scam.
So far, the SIT has arrested 12 individuals in connection with the case, including YSRCP MP from Rajampet P Mithun Reddy, former MLA Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy, Sajjala Sridhar Reddy of SPY Agro, former CMO secretary K Dhanunjay Reddy, and OSD P Krishna Mohan Reddy, in addition to the primary accused, Raj Kesireddy (Accused No. 1).
From Accused No. 1 to No. 8, all have been arrested — except for former Rajya Sabha member V Vijay Sai Reddy, who was named as Accused No. 5 (A5). Despite being named, the SIT has not made any attempt to arrest him.
The SIT noted that Sai Reddy played a key role in policymaking and hosted crucial meetings at his residence to decide the modus operandi for collecting bribes. Yet, he was let off after two rounds of questioning and not taken into custody.
This has sparked intense debate within TDP circles. Many leaders recall Sai Reddy’s past derogatory remarks against Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu — including allegations involving stolen temple ornaments and pink diamonds.
TDP leaders are now questioning whether BJP leaders or NDA alliance heads are shielding Sai Reddy. Some speculate that he may have cooperated with the SIT and shared crucial information, which could explain the leniency shown toward him.
He was recently summoned again but requested more time — which the SIT reportedly granted. Critics argue that the liquor policy, a matter of public interest, was framed not by the cabinet but by MPs and outside individuals, raising further concerns about the previous government’s functioning.
One minister remarked that allowing Sai Reddy to go untouched, despite his alleged involvement, sends the wrong message to the public.
