The Communist Party of India (Marxist) is demanding a thorough judicial investigation, led by a sitting judge, into what they claim is a widespread spurious liquor racket operating with the backing of ruling coalition leaders and government officials.
During a protest held at Ibrahimpatnam Ring Centre on Tuesday, CPI(M) State executive committee member Ch. Babu Rao brought attention to two critical issues: the ongoing liquor scandal and a severe shortage of drinking water in the area.
Mr. Babu Rao accused the current coalition government of allowing counterfeit liquor to proliferate while, paradoxically, residents of Kondapalli and 14 nearby villages are desperately seeking clean drinking water. He further explained that fly ash from the NTTP thermal power plant has polluted local water sources, and official indifference has left these communities without essential water supplies for three consecutive days.
Citing the recent discovery of illegal liquor manufacturing units in Ibrahimpatnam, reportedly connected to a local Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader, Mr. Babu Rao asserted that this illicit network spans from Mulakalacheruvu in Tirupati district all the way to Ibrahimpatnam. He described it as a “cottage industry” thriving on political patronage, emphasizing that “such extensive operations could not exist without government endorsement.” He unequivocally demanded accountability for all implicated leaders and officials.
He demanded immediate arrests of all individuals involved, the permanent closure of all unauthorized liquor shops (belt shops), and fair compensation for families who have suffered due to the consumption of harmful, fake alcohol. Mr. Babu Rao sharply criticized the government, stating, “Despite promising gradual prohibition before the elections, this administration has instead permitted an uncontrolled influx of liquor, including fraudulent brands, across the State.”
Mr. Babu Rao issued a stern warning: if the government fails to promptly address both the water supply restoration and the illicit liquor trade, the CPI(M) will escalate its protests throughout the NTR district.
The demonstration saw participation from numerous CPI(M) leaders, dedicated activists, and women, who collectively shattered liquor bottles as a symbolic act of protest. They called for stringent action against all responsible parties. Notable figures present included District Secretary N. Ch. Srinivas, AIDWA District Secretary K. Saroja, Town Secretary Mahesh, and veteran leader Vittal Rao.