Date:13/12/2003 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2003/12/13/stories/2003121304520400.htm

Southern States - Andhra Pradesh-Hyderabad

ACB asked to probe CM's role in liquor purchase case

HYDERABAD DEC. 12. A city civil court today directed the Anti-Corruption Bureau to inquire into the role of the Chief Minister, N. Chandrababu Naidu, and 10 others in the purchase of liquor from various distilleries between 1997 and 2000 at excess amounts.

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

Besides Mr. Naidu, the Minister, Tummala Nageswara Rao, and nine others have been cited as parties to the alleged crime. - UNI