Srinivas Goud accuses Congress govt of bowing to liquor mafia, warns against toddy ban

V Srinivas Goud accused the Congress government of yielding to the liquor mafia and conspiring to ban toddy sales within Hyderabad’s ORR. He warned of strong opposition and said the move would hit the livelihoods of toddy-tapping communities

Hyderabad: Former Minister V Srinivas Goud accused the Congress government of yielding to pressure from the liquor mafia and conspiring to shut down traditional toddy compounds within the Outer Ring Road (ORR) region of Hyderabad.

He alleged that, driven by a desire for commissions from liquor companies, the government was spreading false reports about adulterated toddy to justify a ban and push liquor sales.

---

Speaking at Telangana Bhavan on Monday, Srinivas Goud warned that any attempt to close toddy compounds or ban toddy sales within the ORR area would be fiercely resisted.

He said such a move would threaten the livelihoods of at least 10 communities dependent on toddy tapping. He also pointed out that toddy and Neera are not only traditional beverages but also hold medicinal value and provide employment for many.

He alleged that despite its pre-election promises to protect and promote traditional occupations, the Congress government appeared intent on dismantling them. “If the Congress closes any toddy compounds, the BRS will reopen them upon returning to power and support members of the Goud community,” he declared.

The former Minister also criticised the State government for failing to control the spread of drugs, ganja, and adulterated milk, even as it targeted traditional sources of livelihood.