Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh Mines and Excise Minister Kollu Ravindra alleged in the Assembly that the previous YSRCP government treated liquor as a major revenue source and risked public health. He said the former administration misled people on prohibition and later changed its stance after coming to power.
Promise of Prohibition Not Fulfilled
The minister said the YSRCP promised total prohibition before elections. However, after forming the government, it announced a phased prohibition instead. He claimed that the previous government increased liquor prices and introduced lesser-known brands. As a result, consumers paid more and faced serious health risks.
Ravindra further alleged that the liquor mafia during the previous regime led to the spurious liquor deaths in Jangareddygudem. He criticised the former leadership for failing to control illegal activities.
White Paper and SIT Probe
The Minister recalled that after the coalition government assumed office, it released a white paper on the previous liquor policy. He stated that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) is now probing irregularities that occurred under the guise of liquor sales.
Moreover, he said the investigation is uncovering several alleged violations linked to the earlier policy.
New Policy Focuses on Public Health
Ravindra emphasised that the current coalition government is implementing a liquor policy that balances revenue with public health concerns. He said authorities have curbed the sale of spurious liquor across the state.
In addition, he noted a reduction in non-duty-paid liquor. He pointed out that liquor revenue at state borders has increased, which he described as proof of better regulation.
Equal Pricing and Brand Availability
The Minister also informed the Assembly that the government has aligned liquor prices with neighbouring states. Furthermore, it has made established brands available to consumers.
He concluded by stating that the coalition government aims to ensure transparency, regulate sales strictly, and protect public health while maintaining lawful revenue collection.
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