YSRCP Slams TDP Coalition Over Arrest of Youth Questioning Liquor Sales
YSRCP leaders demand the release of two youths arrested after they flagged liquor irregularities on social media and through official apps.
The YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) has launched a scathing attack on the TDP-led coalition government, accusing them of using police machinery to silence citizens who raise concerns about liquor irregularities. The party leadership expressed outrage following the arrests of two young men who had reportedly used social media and official channels to question illegal liquor sales.
Allegations of Silencing Whistleblowers
Speaking at the party’s central office, YSRCP ST Cell state president Gunda Surendra highlighted the cases of two individuals targeted for their activism. According to Surendra, Maheshwar Reddy was arrested in Hyderabad after he posted online regarding liquor being sold at prices exceeding the maximum retail price (MRP).
Furthermore, the party alleged that a tribal youth from Mangalagiri was apprehended after he utilized the AP Excise Suraksha app to report suspected sales of fake liquor. Surendra issued a stern warning, stating that local Minister Nara Lokesh would be held accountable if any harm befell the tribal youth.
Questions Over Selective Enforcement
The YSRCP has raised several critical questions regarding the government's response to these incidents:
- Why are individuals being arrested for raising questions instead of the government investigating the allegations of adulterated liquor?
- Why have no actions been taken against media outlets that reported on suspected fake liquor?
- Why were these two specific men targeted while reports of irregularities at 143 wine shops in Visakhapatnam remain unaddressed?
The party has demanded a comprehensive and transparent inquiry into these matters, insisting that the government must make its findings public to maintain trust.
Warnings of Statewide Agitation
The tension between the YSRCP and the ruling coalition is escalating, with party leaders warning of a statewide agitation if "illegal cases, midnight arrests, and harassment" of party workers do not cease. The YSRCP maintains that they will not be intimidated, particularly when defending unemployed youth regarding alleged DSC–2025 irregularities.
Leaders from the Krishna and Guntur districts recently visited the Vijayawada Police Commissioner’s Office to submit a representation to DCP Saritha. They demanded an end to the perceived harassment of those who participated in peaceful protests at the SAAP office.
Claims of Unfair Treatment and Violence
During their visit, YSRCP leaders raised concerns regarding the conduct of the police and the disparity in how political gatherings are treated. They noted that while TDP and Jana Sena rallies were permitted on Bandar Road, permission for the YSRCP’s peaceful protest was denied.
The party also alleged a chaotic scene at the SAAP premises, claiming that nearly 300 individuals posing as teachers were allowed entry. They further alleged that protesters—including unemployed youth and differently-abled individuals—were attacked by persons armed with sticks and rods. The YSRCP leaders stated they would voluntarily appear before the police if provided with a list of those named in cases, but urged authorities to stop conducting midnight raids that frighten families.