Alarming Rise in Alcohol-Related Diseases During YSRCP Rule in Andhra Pradesh, Says Expert Panel

100% Spike in Liver Ailments and Nearly 900% Rise in Neurological Disorders Between 2019–2024​

Amaravati, May 11 — Andhra Pradesh has witnessed a shocking surge in alcohol-related health disorders during the tenure of the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) from 2019 to 2024, a report by a three-member expert panel has revealed. The number of alcohol-related liver disease cases doubled, while alcohol-linked neurological disorders spiked by an alarming 892 percent compared to the 2014–2019 period.

The panel, constituted by the current Chandrababu Naidu-led government, used official health data from the state’s flagship healthcare scheme, Arogyasri, to assess the disease burden. The special chief secretary of the health department, Krishna Babu, expressed deep concern about the findings and confirmed that further analysis is underway.

“We find a startling increase in the number of liver and neurological patients in 2019–24 compared to 2014–19. We are quite concerned and we are analysing the data for further action,” said Babu.

Click to expand...

Key Findings from the Expert Panel Report​

• Liver Disease Cases: Rose from 14,026 in 2014–19 to 29,369 in 2019–24 (100% increase)
• Neurological Disorders: Increased from 1,276 to 12,663 in the same period (892% rise)

The spike was attributed to a significant shift in liquor procurement and distribution policies implemented under the previous regime, which included replacing well-established brands with local alternatives.

Liquor Scam Under Scrutiny​

The report comes amid growing scrutiny of the liquor trade during the YSRCP’s rule. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched a money laundering probe linked to an alleged Rs 3,200 crore liquor scam, based on a September 2024 FIR by the state’s economic offences CID. The ED is now investigating liquor agents, vendors, and possible involvement of government officials.

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed by the Naidu government has already arrested Raj Kasireddy, the former IT advisor to ex-Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, naming him the key accused in the scam.

Manipulated Liquor Procurement and Brand Replacement​

According to the SIT's findings:

• The automated system for ordering liquor from distilleries was manipulated.
• Nationally reputed brands were deliberately removed from distribution.
• Orders were placed on newly launched local brands, exceeding regulated caps.
• Kickbacks were reportedly collected — Rs 150 for cheaper brands, Rs 200 for mid-range, and Rs 600 for premium ones.

Brands like Andhra Gold Whisky, Good Friends Whisky, Dare House Brandy, Champion Special Whisky, and Hearts Desire Whisky — allegedly manufactured by YSRCP-affiliated firms — were pushed into the market under the pretext of liquor policy reforms.

Health experts warn that such policy changes, which prioritize profit over quality, could be directly linked to the sudden rise in liver and kidney ailments in the state.

Government to Form Expert Advisory Board​

In response, the Andhra Pradesh government is planning to set up a high-level advisory board comprising national and international health experts to further investigate the health data and recommend preventive measures.

“Students, workers, and rural populations are among those most affected. We aim to reverse this health crisis with scientific analysis and policy correction,” said a senior official involved in the new initiative.

Click to expand...

As the investigation unfolds, the findings mark a significant moment of introspection for public health governance in Andhra Pradesh. The government’s next steps are expected to play a crucial role in addressing the fallout of the controversial liquor policies.