Former Minister Alleges Systematic Corruption in Telangana Excise Department
In a significant development from Hyderabad, former minister and prominent BRS leader T Harish Rao has leveled serious allegations against the state government, claiming it has opened the door to fresh corruption within the excise department. These accusations come in the wake of the controversial Singareni tender scam, suggesting a pattern of malpractice that extends into liquor licensing and financial management.
Microbrewery License Allocation Under Scrutiny
Speaking to journalists at Telangana Bhavan on Wednesday, Harish Rao revealed startling details about the allocation of microbrewery licenses. He stated that the department had received approximately 110 applications for these coveted permits. However, instead of following transparent procedures, the former minister alleged that 25 licenses had been specifically earmarked for political leaders and ministers through unofficial quotas.
According to Rao's claims, 21 licenses were kept ready under what he described as a "key leader's quota," while the remaining four were reserved under a separate "minister's quota." This allocation system bypasses standard regulatory frameworks and raises serious questions about governance and accountability in the excise sector.
Unofficial Agreements and Financial Irregularities
The allegations grow more serious with Harish Rao's claim about financial arrangements surrounding these licenses. He asserted that he possesses information about unofficial agreements being made to collect ₹1.8 crore per license. Breaking down this substantial amount, Rao explained that ₹1.5 crore was allegedly intended for a senior political leader, while ₹30 lakh was designated for an intermediary acting on that leader's behalf.
"A person acting as a close aide of a senior leader had recently come into the spotlight," Rao told media representatives, suggesting that this individual plays a crucial role in facilitating these questionable transactions. These allegations point to a sophisticated network of influence and financial exchange operating outside official channels.
Violation of Established Procedures
Beyond the microbrewery license controversy, Harish Rao highlighted additional procedural violations within the excise department. He claimed that wine shop licenses had been issued to select individuals without conducting the mandatory lucky draw process. This established procedure is designed to ensure fairness and transparency in license distribution, and its alleged bypassing represents a significant departure from standard operating protocols.
Financial Crisis in Liquor Supply Chain
The former minister painted a concerning picture of the financial health of the state's liquor supply system. He revealed that, for the first time in Telangana's history, liquor supply companies are facing pending dues amounting to nearly ₹4,500 crore. According to his statements, payments to these companies have not been released for approximately 16 months, creating unprecedented financial strain.
"Such a situation has never occurred before," Rao emphasized, noting that this negligence has already begun affecting consumer availability. He specifically mentioned that the supply of Breezer has completely stopped in many parts of the state due to these payment issues.
Multinational Companies Express Concern
Adding weight to his allegations, Harish Rao disclosed that several multinational liquor companies have repeatedly written to the state government, warning that they would stop supplying products due to non-payment of outstanding dues. This potential disruption could significantly impact both the state's revenue and consumer choice if not addressed promptly.
The BRS leader also drew attention to what he perceives as unequal treatment within the industry. "While beer manufacturing companies are receiving full support, farmers are being completely neglected," he stated, suggesting broader imbalances in the government's approach to different sectors within the alcohol production and distribution ecosystem.
Broader Implications for Governance
These allegations come at a sensitive time for Telangana's political landscape. The claims about corruption in license allocation, combined with the serious financial issues facing liquor suppliers, suggest systemic problems within the excise department's operations. Harish Rao's detailed accusations challenge the transparency and fairness of current administrative practices, potentially affecting public trust in government institutions.
The former minister's decision to bring these matters to public attention through a media briefing indicates growing concern within opposition circles about governance standards. As these allegations circulate, they are likely to spark further debate about accountability, procedural integrity, and financial management within state departments.
