Date:13/12/2003 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2003/12/13/stories/2003121304100600.htm

Southern States - Andhra Pradesh

ACB asked to probe Naidu's 'role' in liquor purchase

Hyderabad Dec. 12. A city civil court today directed the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) to inquire into the alleged "role" of the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister, N. Chandrababu Naidu, and 10 others in the purchase of liquor from various distilleries between 1997 and 2000 at an excess amount.

Based on a petition filed by a lawyer, Krishna Goud, that the AP Beverages Corporation had procured liquor from various distilleries for an excess amount to the tune of Rs. 550 crores, the Principal Sessions Judge, Ananthasayanam, ordered the ACB to inquire into the allegation and submit a report to the court by January 20.

Besides Mr. Naidu, the former Excise Minister, Tummulla Nageswara Rao, and nine others have been cited as parties to the alleged crime. — UNI