Chandrababu Naidu Releases White Paper Exposing YS Jagan’s Corrupt Excise Policy

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has launched a scathing attack on former Chief Minister YS Jaganmohan Reddy, alleging that the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) government engaged in corrupt practices related to the state’s Excise Policy, severely impacting public health and resulting in substantial financial losses. During a session in the Assembly, Naidu presented a comprehensive White Paper detailing the alleged mismanagement of the Excise Policy from 2019 to 2024.

The 31-page document outlines how the YSRCP’s flawed policies led to an estimated loss of approximately ₹18,860 crores to the state’s exchequer. Naidu criticized Jagan’s administration for making misleading promises regarding alcohol prohibition and for favoring cronies, which resulted in an influx of counterfeit liquor brands. He emphasized that the YSRCP’s approach not only harmed public health but also eroded the state’s revenue base, as legitimate distilleries disappeared in favor of spurious brands.

Naidu further elaborated on the detrimental impact of Jagan’s policies, stating that the increase in liquor prices by 75% was counterproductive, leading to a rise in per capita consumption from 5.5 liters in 2019-20 to 6.23 liters in 2023-24. He argued that the revenue generated from liquor sales was not accurately reflected in the state’s finances, as many transactions occurred in cash, lacking transparency.

The Chief Minister described the YSRCP’s Excise Policy as poorly conceived and unbalanced, asserting that Jagan’s claims of reducing alcohol consumption were merely a facade for personal gain. Naidu’s presentation in the Assembly aimed to expose what he termed Jagan’s “liquor loot,” supported by detailed statistics and evidence of the alleged corruption.

As the political battle intensifies, Naidu’s revelations may have significant implications for the upcoming elections, as the TDP seeks to position itself as a champion of accountability and transparency in governance. The White Paper serves as a critical tool for the TDP to rally public support against the YSRCP, highlighting the perceived failures of Jagan’s administration in managing the state’s excise policies and protecting public welfare.