Hyderabad PhD Chemist Faces New Scrutiny Over Election Role
In a startling development in Hyderabad, a man with a PhD in organic chemistry, previously targeted by anti-drug authorities for alleged synthetic drug manufacturing, has once again drawn the attention of investigators. This time, the focus is not on narcotics but on his suspected involvement in orchestrating a local electoral victory for his wife.
From Drug Bust to Election Controversy
The accused, a resident of Medak district, was arrested three times since 2021 for his alleged role in producing Alprazolam, a synthetic drug. In a significant crackdown, the Elite Action Group for Drug Law Enforcement (EAGLE) unit attached properties worth nearly Rs 30 crore belonging to him last year. Despite this, he was released on bail in October 2025 after spending about six months in jail.
Recently, his wife won a sarpanch election, and investigators now suspect he played a pivotal role in her campaign. Officials report that during the run-up to the election, villagers were allegedly treated to elaborate food and liquor for nearly two weeks, raising questions about the source of funds.
Puzzling Financial Mobilization Amid Asset Seizure
What has left EAGLE sleuths baffled is how the accused managed to mobilize substantial resources for the campaign after his properties were attached. Sources within the agency suggest he may have used benamis (proxy holders) to pool money. "We attached 17 properties worth Rs 30 crore by approaching the competent court in Chennai. It looks like he has benamis, through whom he pooled money. While his wife contested, the accused actively played a role in her victory," officials told TOI.
The investigation into his activities began earlier when probing the role of his brother-in-law, a police constable arrested for alleged collusion. Mobile phone evidence revealed daily updates on sales at toddy compounds, where Alprazolam was allegedly mixed with toddy before sale. In the bulk market, one kilogram of this drug can fetch around Rs 10 lakh, with just one gram capable of spiking nearly 2,000 bottles of toddy.
Widespread Network and Political Backing
Officials uncovered that several toddy centers linked to this network were involved in illegal activities. The accused is alleged to have manufactured the drug using premises of different companies in locations such as Vijayawada and Cherlapally. In one of four criminal cases against him, he is accused of producing nearly 80 kg of Alprazolam.
Adding to the complexity, the candidature of his wife was reportedly backed by a political party, though specific details were not disclosed. This case highlights ongoing challenges in combating organized crime and its potential intersections with local politics, raising concerns about accountability and enforcement in the region.
