Corruption Rock Excise Department

metro india news  I hyderabad

Serious allegations of widespread corruption have surfaced within the Excise Department, with several officials accused of misusing their positions for personal gain. Complaints suggest that a section of officers has entrenched itself in key posts for years, exploiting departmental loopholes and political influence to continue in lucrative positions.

Despite promotions or transfers, many officials reportedly manage to stay in or return to their preferred postings, often through deputation. This has led to accusations that illegal collections and corrupt practices have become systemic, particularly within the State Task Force (STF) and District Task Force (DTF) units. Lower-level staff are allegedly being used to facilitate these activities, especially in cases involving drugs, ganja, and illicit liquor.

There are also claims of harassment of subordinate officials who refuse to comply. One officer from Andhra Pradesh is said to wield significant influence within the STF, continuing to dominate operations even after being transferred, by quickly securing a return through deputation.

Instances of officials refusing to move after promotions have also drawn criticism. In some cases, officers are allegedly lobbying through political channels to secure favorable postings. Others are accused of remaining in “focal” positions to continue illegal collections, with coordinated efforts involving inspectors and sub-inspectors.

In certain divisions, officials are reportedly targeting bar and wine shop owners, filing cases or conducting raids if regular payments are not made. Similar practices are said to be prevalent in parts of the erstwhile Nalgonda district.

Rs 20 Lakh Bribery Allegation

In a recent case, STF officials allegedly detained an individual in a ganja case and recovered his phone, which revealed links to a prominent business family. It is claimed that an officer threatened arrest and demanded money, leading to a payment of Rs 20 lakh by the businessman to let his grandson go scot-free. The matter has reportedly been brought to the government’s attention.

Officials are also accused of siphoning off nearly Rs 1 crore from secret funds meant for informants. Since these funds do not require strict accounting, they were allegedly misused by senior officers. A complaint has reportedly been submitted to the department’s Principal Secretary.

Other Allegations and Government Action

Additional accusations include the illegal sale of seized “defence liquor bottles” instead of their destruction. Some officers are already under surveillance due to mounting complaints.

With multiple complaints pouring in, the government has initiated an internal inquiry into the functioning of Excise officials. Reports on the performance and integrity of officers across ranks are being compiled, and upcoming transfers are expected to factor in these findings.

The developments indicate a broader crackdown may be imminent, as the government seeks to restore accountability in a key revenue-generating department.