BRS seeks removal of Excise Commissioner Hari Kiran over harassment allegations

BRS leader Srinivas Goud demanded the removal of Excise Commissioner Hari Kiran, alleging harassment of Telangana employees, favouritism towards Andhra officers, and corruption, while calling for a probe into his appointment and departmental functioning.

Hyderabad: The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) has strongly criticised Excise Commissioner C. Hari Kiran, accusing him of mistreating department staff and creating a hostile work environment.

The party also faulted the Congress government for appointing officers from Andhra Pradesh to key positions. It alleged that Telangana employees were being sidelined and subjected to harassment.

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Former Excise Minister V. Srinivas Goud visited Excise Deputy Commissioner V Somi Reddy of the Nizamabad division at a private hospital on Saturday. Somi Reddy is currently undergoing treatment.
Speaking to the media later, Srinivas Goud demanded the immediate removal of Hari Kiran from service. He accused the Commissioner of harassing employees and contributing to declining morale within the department.

He claimed that Hari Kiran, who hails from Andhra Pradesh, was given the top post soon after arriving in Telangana. According to him, several important postings were being handed to officers from Andhra Pradesh, while Telangana officials were being humiliated.

Srinivas Goud alleged that the Commissioner’s behaviour was affecting the health of employees. He said some officers were facing severe stress and health issues due to verbal abuse.

Referring to Somi Reddy, he described him as a sincere officer who was targeted without reason. He confirmed that Somi Reddy is being treated at Care Hospitals in Nampally.

The former Minister also pointed out that another officer, S.A.M. Rizvi, had opted for voluntary retirement, allegedly due to the prevailing work atmosphere.

He further alleged corruption in the department, including the involvement of a retired officer serving as Officer on Special Duty to the Excise Minister.

Raising another concern, Srinivas Goud questioned how liquor sourced from Andhra Pradesh was found at a wine shop in Kukatpally. He demanded an explanation for its presence in Telangana.He said the combination of alleged corruption and the dominance of Andhra officers was creating serious problems for Telangana employees.

Questioning the continued influence of Andhra officials even after the formation of Telangana, he urged local employees to support Somi Reddy.Srinivas Goud called for a thorough investigation into the appointment of Hari Kiran. He insisted that those responsible for his posting be identified.

He concluded by stating that despite being treated with respect, Andhra officers were failing to recognise the efforts of Telangana employees.