*Liquor case is a political diversion with no evidence: Perni Nani*

Tadepalli, Sept 19: Former Minister Perni Venkataramaiah (Nani) accused the TDP coalition government of using the alleged liquor scam to target former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy and divert public attention from its failure to implement the Super Six promises, support drought-hit farmers, address DSC recruitment irregularities, control illegal liquor sales and resolve the problems of students and unemployed youth.

Addressing the media at the YSRCP central office, Perni Nani said the SIT had investigated the case for nearly two years but failed to recover even one rupee. TDP leaders initially called it a Rs 1 lakh crore scam. The figure was later reduced to Rs 44,000 crore, Rs 33,000 crore and finally Rs 3,000 crore.

“What has the SIT achieved after two years? This investigation is continuing like the never-ending television serial,” he said.

Perni Nani alleged that Satyaprasad, earlier shown as an accused, was now being turned into an approver to create a fresh story against Jagan. He said Satyaprasad’s statement contained only hearsay and no direct evidence.

“When did Satyaprasad meet Jagan? Where did the alleged transactions take place? Where was the money recovered?” he asked. The TDP government must explain why an accused was not arrested, allowed to obtain bail and subsequently turned into an approver.

He also demanded transparency over liquor-shop tenders, belt shops, unauthorised sales and inflated prices. The government must disclose where its promised quality liquor is actually being sold for Rs 99.

Perni Nani demanded a comprehensive inquiry into alleged DSC recruitment irregularities. Officials must verify the TET marks, merit records and caste certificates of newly appointed teachers and compare the 2018 and latest DSC lists.

Referring to the Tirumala Laddu controversy, he said the the latest Enforcement Directorate statement had brought the facts to light. Chandrababu Naidu must now answer for his allegations and explain why the sacred prasadam was used for political propaganda.