New Delhi: The controversial Delhi liquor policy continues to stir debates across the nation, with a new report shedding light on significant financial implications. A recent Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report has revealed that the Delhi government faced a loss of Rs 2,026 crore as a result of the liquor policy. According to media reports, the CAG criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for its failure to effectively implement the policy.
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The CAG’s findings indicate that a committee of experts led by former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia overlooked key recommendations. Additionally, it was noted that the Delhi Cabinet and Lieutenant Governor did not seek necessary approvals for critical decisions regarding the policy. The report also pointed to violations in the process of issuing liquor licenses and approving rules.
The CAG highlighted concerns over the auctioning process, revealing that despite complaints, approval was granted to auction liquor licenses without assessing the financial stability of bidding companies. It further revealed that even companies in financial distress were allowed to participate in the bidding, with their licenses later being reinstated.
This report comes at a time when key AAP leaders, including Manish Sisodia and former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, were arrested by Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials in connection with the liquor policy case. Both leaders were granted bail after spending several months in jail.
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As Delhi prepares for its upcoming assembly elections on February 5, with vote counting scheduled for February 8, the release of the CAG report has added further intensity to the ongoing political discourse.