Rachamallu slams Chandrababu for betrayal on liquor price promises
By Doruvu Paul Jagan Babu:Bureau Chief

Kadapa – Andhra Pradesh: YSRCP state spokesperson and former Proddatur MLA Rachamallu Siva Prasad Reddy criticized Chandrababu Naidu for his alleged failure to fulfill promises on reducing liquor prices and ensuring quality during his tenure. Speaking at a media conference on Thursday, Reddy accused Naidu of running a malicious campaign against liquor brands under the YSR Congress government while ignoring his own commitments to the public.
Unfulfilled promises on liquor pricing
Rachamallu Siva Prasad Reddy highlighted Naidu’s pre-election promise of reducing liquor prices and providing quality brands to the public. Displaying videos of Naidu’s campaign, Rachamallu said. “Chandrababu promised to reduce prices and provide quality liquor. After winning, he betrayed everyone. Prices remain the same, and no measures were taken to improve quality.”
He further alleged that despite Naidu’s claims of liquor being “poison,” the same brands and distilleries continue to operate with no substantial changes.
Disadvantages of liquor policies
Rachamallu expressed concerns over the adverse effects of liquor availability:
Rise in cheap liquor: Rachamallu said that more low-quality liquor brands have entered the market, risking public health. For instance, Kerala brand liquor sold for Rs 99 in Andhra Pradesh is priced at Rs 85 in other states, with no adherence to minimum quality standards.
Impact on society: Easy availability of liquor has contributed to increased violence, particularly against women. Villages with a population of around 3,000 now have two or three illegal belt shops.
Adulteration of liquor: Traders facing losses are resorting to adulterating liquor, adding to the public’s woes.
Liquor trade mismanagement
According to Rachamallu, the current liquor trade policies have worsened the situation:
Exploitation of traders: The government imposed a non-refundable deposit of Rs 2 lakh for liquor shop tenders, earning Rs 2,000 crores. Despite this, traders receive only a 9.5% profit margin instead of the promised 20%, forcing them to sell liquor above MRP.
Uncontrolled distribution: With the privatization of liquor sales, he claimed there is no regulatory oversight, leading to the proliferation of belt shops and unrestricted operations of permit rooms.
Demand for action
Rachamallu urged the government to honour Naidu’s promises by reducing prices and ensuring the availability of quality liquor. He also demanded stricter control over belt shops and adulterated liquor to safeguard public welfare. “Alcohol is flowing unchecked, causing irreparable damage to society. The government must act immediately,” he emphasized.