Andhra Pradesh's Liquor Policy Controversy

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu accuses the previous YSRCP regime of causing a Rs 18,860 crore loss to the state through ineffective liquor policies. Naidu promises reforms to increase revenue and proposes an investigation into alleged irregularities by the YS Jagan Mohan Reddy government.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has accused the previous YSRCP regime of causing a massive financial loss to the state through flawed liquor policies. Releasing a white paper on excise policies in the assembly on Wednesday, Naidu claimed the state exchequer lost Rs 18,860 crore over the past five years.

Naidu criticized the YS Jagan Mohan Reddy government's handling of liquor policies, accusing them of replacing promises of prohibition with manipulative and self-serving tactics. He also highlighted a revenue gap of Rs 42,762 crore compared to neighboring Telangana.

The Chief Minister pledged to reform the Excise department, ensuring efficient functioning through a single line of control, transparent procurement, and revisions of bar and retail licenses. The alleged irregularities will be investigated by the CB-CID and possibly referred to the Enforcement Directorate.