Lokesh dismisses Jagan’s `emergency' diatribe; says ex-CM is central character in liquor scam

Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh IT Minister Nara Lokesh accused former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy of being involved in the liquor scam.

Dismissing Jagan’s `emergency-like’ situation statement, he said the former chief minister is at the centre of the liquor scam and there is a clear money trail linking the proceeds to him.

Lokesh strongly defended the proposed Godavari-Banakacherla water diversion project, questioning Telangana’s objections and calling them “double standards.”

Liquor scam money reached Jagan

Lokesh said funds from Adan Distillery were routed through PLR Company and ended up with Jagan. “The transactions happened in both cash and cheques. Is there any liquor company in India that buys gold worth Rs 400 crore?” he asked, terming it a clear case of political corruption.

Let the law do its job

When asked about the possibility of Jagan’s arrest, Lokesh said, “Law will take its course. Investigating agencies are doing their job based on evidence.”

Rejects ‘emergency’ narrative

Hitting back at Jagan’s “emergency-like situation” remark, Lokesh said, “If there truly was such a situation, would he be flying around in a helicopter and holding meetings freely? He is being provided full security by this government.”

Banakacherla project is on AP soil: Lokesh

Defending the Banakacherla water project, Lokesh said Andhra Pradesh is diverting surplus Godavari water that naturally flows into the state. “Why object to a project that benefits Rayalaseema? Did the Kaleshwaram project in Telangana get regulatory approval?” he asked.

He accused Telangana leaders of politicising the issue and creating unnecessary controversy. “You can’t have one rule for Telangana and another for Andhra Pradesh,” he said.

TDP stands for Telugu people

Reiterating his party’s stance, Lokesh said the Telugu Desam Party has always worked for the welfare of Telugu-speaking people in both states. “TDP will never act against Telangana. We want all Telugu people to grow together,” he said.