A recent development in Delhi has sparked controversy and demands for further investigation. Atishi, a prominent leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Delhi Assembly, has raised concerns about corruption in the liquor sale industry in the national capital. This comes in response to a Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report that was tabled in the assembly, shedding light on alleged malpractices in the regulation and supply of liquor in Delhi.
Atishi’s Call for a CBI Probe
Atishi wasted no time in addressing the findings of the CAG report, stating that it confirmed the opposition party’s suspicions of corruption within the liquor sale system. She emphasized that the report highlighted significant discrepancies, indicating that over 28% of corruption was attributed to contractors who were pocketing illicit profits. According to Atishi, the report exposed instances of black marketing and manipulation of cost prices by liquor contractors.
In a statement to news agency ANI, Atishi stressed the urgency of a thorough investigation into the matter. She called for intervention from the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) based on the damning revelations in the CAG report. Atishi’s demand for accountability and action underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for swift measures to address the alleged misconduct.
Repercussions of the CAG Report
The CAG report, titled ‘Performance Audit on Regulation and Supply of Liquor in Delhi,’ presented a comprehensive analysis of the failings in the implementation of the now-defunct Delhi excise policy. It highlighted various lapses that resulted in a staggering loss of approximately ₹2,002 crores to the Delhi government. The report underscored the detrimental impact of policy violations and questionable decisions that favored specific entities while disregarding established processes.
Atishi drew attention to the potential revenue gains that were forfeited due to the mismanagement of the liquor supply chain. She lamented the missed opportunity for revenue growth, citing examples from other regions where similar policies had yielded significant financial benefits. The stark contrast between the projected revenue and the actual collection underscored the implications of ineffective policy implementation on the state’s finances.
The report’s detailed examination of the excise policy’s impact on revenue generation and the role of AAP leaders in the alleged kickbacks further fueled calls for accountability and transparency in governance. Atishi’s insistence on investigating the lapses and holding responsible parties to account underscores the need for integrity and oversight in regulatory matters.
In conclusion, Atishi’s unwavering stance on the findings of the CAG report reflects a commitment to upholding ethical standards and combating corruption in the public sector. The implications of the report extend beyond financial losses to encompass broader concerns about governance, accountability, and the public trust. As the call for a CBI probe gains traction, the spotlight remains on the need for decisive action to address systemic flaws and ensure transparency in regulatory processes.
