YSRCP Leader Arrested in Adulterated Liquor Case Amid Political Tensions in Andhra Pradesh

The ruling TDP has firmly rejected all accusations, stating that legal processes will proceed independently.

Amaravati (AP):

An intense political confrontation has developed following the detention of YSRCP leader and former minister Jogi Ramesh in connection with an adulterated liquor investigation, with his party claiming it represents political persecution by Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu's TDP administration.

Authorities from the Excise department, Special Investigation Team, and local police jointly apprehended Ramesh on Sunday before presenting him in court later that evening. Allegations suggest Ramesh and his associates are connected to an illicit liquor production and distribution network. Previously in this investigation, primary suspect Janatdhan Rao was arrested, reportedly implicating Ramesh during questioning.

Both Ramesh and the YSRCP have categorically denied these accusations, contending that he has been "maliciously framed" merely to "harass him and target the YSRCP." The opposition party characterized the arrest as a "blatant act of political revenge" and "abuse of power by the coalition government."

"TDP officials were caught red-handed. To conceal their wrongdoing, they've fabricated a false narrative and implicated Jogi Ramesh," the party stated.

The Jagan Reddy-led organization emphasized that Ramesh had requested a CBI investigation and even petitioned the High Court. Despite these actions, his subsequent arrest "indicates a deliberate conspiracy," according to the party.

The TDP dismissed all allegations, maintaining that legal procedures would follow their natural course and that the party bears no responsibility for the arrest.

Ramesh is additionally under investigation regarding an attack on Chandrababu Naidu's Undavalli residence in 2021.