SIT Zeroes In on YS Jagan Mohan Reddy in Multi-Crore Liquor Scam

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the multi-crore liquor scam during the previous YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) government is intensifying its probe, with a focus on party president and former chief minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy. Over the past three days, the SIT has interrogated Devaraju, personal assistant to Jagan’s cousin Y.S. Anil Reddy, who is alleged to have played a key role in channeling illegal kickbacks from liquor companies and distilleries.

Sources said Devaraju, a native of Shanthipuram mandal in Chittoor district, maintained regular contact with several accused in the case. Investigators believe he acted as a critical link between Anil Reddy and other individuals involved in the alleged financial network, highlighting the scale of the operations under the YSRCP government.

The SIT’s chargesheet identifies Raj Kesireddy as the prime accused, claiming he collected Rs 250–260 crore in monthly kickbacks from liquor supply companies. Investigators now suspect that these funds were routed to Jagan Mohan Reddy through intermediaries, including Anil Reddy, Balaji Govindappa, MP Mithun Reddy, V. Vijayasai Reddy, P. Krishnamohan Reddy, and K. Dhanunjaya Reddy.

Anil Reddy, based in Chennai, has previously been linked to liquor operations in Africa and surfaced in probes into the sand scam during the YSRCP regime. Sources indicate he oversaw extensive party surveys and distributed large sums to candidates ahead of elections. Investigators are now examining whether these funds were sourced from alleged liquor kickbacks.

Although Devaraju has denied involvement in the scam, SIT officials reportedly confronted him with technical evidence, after which he fell silent. His formal statement has been recorded, signaling that the investigation is entering a crucial phase in tracing the flow of funds and identifying those who benefited from the alleged transactions.

The SIT is now mapping the transfer of kickbacks from Kesireddy to Anil Reddy, the channels used, and the final recipients of the money. Investigators believe uncovering these links will be key to establishing accountability at the top levels of the YSRCP government. The probe is expected to intensify in the coming weeks, with further interrogations planned for key aides and intermediaries.