PNS|Vijayawada
Minister for Mines, Geology and Excise, Kollu Ravindra, has launched a scathing attack on YSRCP chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, claiming that the ongoing Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into liquor scams has left the former Chief Minister unnerved. He alleged that during Jagan’s five-year rule, public funds worth thousands of crores were siphoned off.
Speaking to the media at the TDP office in Machilipatnam, Ravindra said only the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) consistently stands by the people and works to uphold democratic values. He described the TDP as the strongest institutionally democratic party in the country, with an internal leadership selection process that is unmatched globally.
Referring to the recent arrest of Gali Janardhan Reddy in the Obulapuram mining case, the Minister said it vindicates the TDP’s long-standing campaign against corruption. “Years ago, when we exposed Gali Janardhan Reddy’s illegal mining activities, YS Rajasekhara Reddy and his associates tried to frame Chandrababu Naidu. Now, the courts have proved us right and delivered justice,” he said. “At that time, Janardhan Reddy called Jagan his brother. What does Jagan have to say now?” he questioned.
Ravindra alleged that Jagan’s government orchestrated a massive liquor scam that endangered public health for personal gain. “Despite public uproar, Jagan remained indifferent. Now, as the SIT unearths clear evidence of wrongdoing, Jagan and his aides are resorting to baseless allegations against the present government,” he stated.
He warned that no one involved in corruption would be spared. “Officials who abetted Jagan’s loot are now in jail. The evidence is undeniable. Jagan is using his party-controlled media to mislead the public,” he charged.
Ravindra said democracy was being restored under the TDP-led coalition and that sincere efforts were underway to address public grievances.
Mocking former minister Perni Nani’s remarks on liquor policies, he said, “It’s ironic that someone who looted rice meant for the poor is now speaking about belt shops. If he knows where they exist, let him show us.” He further accused Nani of operating a liquor mafia in Machilipatnam during the previous government’s tenure.
The Minister informed that the TDP will hold a constituency-level Mahanadu in Machilipatnam on May 21, followed by a district-level Mahanadu on May 23 to deliberate on local issues and adopt resolutions.
