Vijayawada: Retired IAS officer Dr Rajat Bhargava appeared before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) in Vijayawada on Friday in connection with the ongoing probe into the alleged liquor scam during the YSRCP’s regime. His appearance came after he had earlier informed the SIT of health issues that delayed his attendance.Dr Bhargava, who served as special chief secretary for the excise department under the previous administration, was summoned to appear at 10 a.m. for questioning regarding irregularities in liquor procurement, pricing, and policy execution. Although he initially cited ill health as a reason for his absence, he later complied with the summons and arrived at the SIT office later in the day upon being informed that his presence was mandatory.SIT officials began questioning him on various aspects of the liquor policy, including administrative approvals, financial transactions, and alleged procedural lapses during his tenure. Investigators are focusing on his role in issuing clearances and policy decisions that may have favored certain liquor syndicates and contributed to monopolistic practices in the state’s liquor trade.Sources say the SIT is probing whether Dr Bhargava overlooked key violations or was involved in decisions that caused significant losses to the state exchequer. The team is seeking clarification on the rationale behind specific government orders and the procedures followed in awarding distribution rights and contracts to particular entities.This questioning is part of a broader investigation that has already led to the arrest and interrogation of several former officials, political leaders, and their aides linked to the alleged Rs 3,500 crore liquor scam. The SIT has intensified efforts in recent weeks to trace financial transactions, scrutinize contracts, and identify the key decision-makers behind the irregularities.Dr Bhargava’s name surfaced during a review of official files and correspondence, prompting the SIT to regard him as a crucial witness—and possibly a person of interest—in uncovering how the policy framework enabled alleged corruption. His testimony will be vital in establishing the administrative chain of command and accountability.
