CM Chandrababu Naidu has made it clear that fake liquor will not be tolerated anywhere in Andhra Pradesh. He directed officials to take strict action against those involved in the Mulakalacheruvu fake liquor case in Annamayya district.
The Chief Minister reviewed the case at his camp office along with Excise Minister Kollu Ravindra, Principal Secretary Mukesh Kumar Meena, Enforcement Director Rahul Dev Sharma, and Excise Commissioner Sridhar. Officials explained how the racket was uncovered and the actions taken so far.
Excise officers first caught a few men with fake liquor bottles during inspections in Mulakalacheruvu. Based on their statements, raids were carried out in nearby areas, including Kadirinathunikota village, where a full-scale fake liquor manufacturing unit was found. Fourteen people were identified, and ten were arrested. Fake labels, bottles of various brands, and packaging materials were seized from the site.
The main accused, Addepalli Janardhan Rao, who holds a bar license in Vijayawada, is said to have started the fake liquor operation with the help of a few locals and workers from Tamil Nadu and Odisha. The liquor was being supplied to Andhra Wines in Pedda Tippasamudram and Rockstar Wines in Mulakalacheruvu. Both shops have been sealed. Officials also revealed that Janardhan Rao is currently abroad, and efforts are underway to locate him.
Following the investigation, the TDP took disciplinary action against two local leaders. Thamballapalle ACI Jayachandra Reddy and TDP leader Katta Surendra Naidu were suspended from the party over their alleged involvement in the case. The suspension order was issued by TDP State President Palla Srinivasa Rao, as per the directions of Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu.
The party high command has also ordered a detailed inquiry to uncover the full truth and take further action against everyone responsible.
CM Chandrababu instructed officials to conduct a fair and deep investigation and ensure strict punishment for all those involved, regardless of their political connections.
Related