In a significant ruling that underscores the gravity of large-scale corruption, the Supreme Court of India has dismissed the regular bail plea of Kasireddy Rajasekhar Reddy, the primary accused in the alleged Andhra Pradesh liquor scam. This multi-crore scandal, estimated between Rs 3,200 crore and Rs 3,500 crore, involves serious irregularities in the state’s liquor policy and massive transactions routed through shell companies.
The bench, headed by the Chief Justice, was unequivocal during the hearing. ‘This is no petty crime,’ the court observed, emphasizing that such extensive graft could not occur without the complicity of bureaucrats and politicians. Pointing to prima facie evidence, particularly the deposit of around Rs 750 crore in shell companies directly linked to Reddy, the justices ruled that granting bail could jeopardize the ongoing investigation.
The court also critiqued the mindset of certain officials who believe they enjoy special privileges—a notion firmly rejected. Reddy’s counsel, senior advocate Ranjit Kumar, sought permission to withdraw the plea, which was allowed. However, the apex court permitted him to approach the trial court or High Court afresh at an appropriate stage.
This decision bolsters the probe into the scam, which has been under scrutiny in Andhra Pradesh for months. With several other accused facing similar bail proceedings, Reddy’s continued custody signals judicial resolve against high-level corruption. The ruling also upholds the High Court’s prior order, refusing any interference.
As investigations deepen, this case highlights systemic vulnerabilities in policy formulation and the need for stringent oversight in revenue-generating sectors like liquor. Stakeholders await further developments that could implicate more players in this web of deceit.