By In a major breakthrough in the Andhra Pradesh liquor scam, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has arrested two high-profile individuals — Dhanunjaya Reddy, the former Secretary to the Chief Minister, and Krishna Mohan Reddy, the Officer on Special Duty (OSD). The arrests have sparked widespread political reactions and added a new dimension to the ongoing probe into the multi-crore scam.
Background of the Scam
The liquor scam in Andhra Pradesh revolves around the alleged manipulation of liquor tenders, kickbacks from liquor syndicates, and financial irregularities in liquor distribution during the previous regime. The investigation began following multiple complaints from civil society organizations and whistleblowers alleging deep-rooted corruption in the liquor policy implementation.
The government constituted a SIT to investigate the scam thoroughly, and over the past several months, multiple officials, suppliers, and contractors have been questioned.
Who Are the Arrested Officials?
Dhanunjaya Reddy: Former Secretary to the CM
Dhanunjaya Reddy served as a senior bureaucrat and held the influential post of Secretary to the Chief Minister. Known for his proximity to the corridors of power, his involvement in the liquor scam has come as a shock to many in political and administrative circles.
Sources suggest that Reddy allegedly played a pivotal role in the allocation of liquor shop licenses and manipulated official files to favor certain syndicates. His arrest points toward administrative complicity in the scam and opens doors for further investigation into high-ranking officials.
Krishna Mohan Reddy: Officer on Special Duty (OSD)
Krishna Mohan Reddy served as OSD in the Chief Minister’s Office, handling various policy-related tasks and coordination duties. According to SIT officials, he is accused of being the key link between the liquor syndicates and government offices.
Investigators allege that Krishna Mohan facilitated the transfer of confidential information to private contractors and helped them win tenders in exchange for bribes. His arrest is seen as a crucial piece in the larger puzzle of the liquor scam.
Timeline of the Investigation
The SIT investigation gained momentum in early 2024 when a set of leaked documents and audio recordings began circulating on social media. These files suggested that top officials were involved in fixing liquor license bids and collecting commissions.
After obtaining preliminary evidence, the SIT interrogated several mid-level officers and private vendors. Based on their testimonies and financial trails, the role of Dhanunjaya Reddy and Krishna Mohan Reddy came under scrutiny.
The two were summoned for questioning earlier this week. Following hours of interrogation and after discovering inconsistencies in their statements, both were formally arrested by the SIT on Friday evening.
Charges Framed
The SIT has registered cases under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including:
- Criminal Conspiracy (Section 120B)
- Cheating (Section 420)
- Forgery and Falsification of Documents (Sections 468, 471)
- Prevention of Corruption Act
According to SIT officials, more charges may be added as the investigation progresses.
Political Fallout
The arrests have created a political storm in Andhra Pradesh. The opposition parties have demanded a CBI probe, alleging that the SIT might not be able to act independently due to political pressure.
Meanwhile, the ruling party has maintained that the law will take its course and there will be zero tolerance toward corruption. In a press briefing, a government spokesperson said, “No one is above the law. Whether it is a bureaucrat or a political aide, action will be taken without fear or favor.”
Public Reaction and Media Coverage
The public response to the arrests has been mixed. While many citizens have welcomed the swift action taken by the SIT, others believe that the investigation should also include political figures who may have given direct or indirect approval to the scam.
Media outlets across the state have been giving extensive coverage to the case, highlighting its implications for administrative integrity and transparency in governance.
What’s Next?
The SIT is expected to seek extended custody of the arrested officials for further interrogation. Financial records, digital devices, and communication data from the CM’s office are being examined for additional evidence.
Sources close to the investigation indicate that more high-profile arrests may follow in the coming weeks. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is also said to be monitoring the case for possible money laundering links.
Conclusion
The arrest of two senior officials in the AP liquor scam is a significant development that underscores the seriousness of the allegations. As the SIT deepens its probe, all eyes are now on whether more influential names will be brought under the scanner. This incident has reignited the debate on transparency, accountability, and ethical governance in the state administration.
