Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has issued a strong warning against selling liquor above the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) in the state. He said that complaints have been received from several areas, including Kakinada district, that liquor is being sold at higher prices in some shops.
Responding to these complaints, Pawan Kalyan made it clear that selling liquor above the printed MRP is against government rules. He said such practices bring a bad name to the government and will not be tolerated. The Deputy CM stressed that liquor shop owners must strictly follow pricing rules.
In a statement released by the Deputy Chief Minister’s Office, Pawan Kalyan warned that even collecting one rupee more than the MRP would invite action. He directed excise officials to keep a close watch on liquor shops across the state and take strict steps against those found violating the rules.
The statement said that the Deputy CM personally reviewed the complaints received from the public. After examining them, he instructed the excise department to increase inspections and ensure that liquor is sold only at approved prices. Officials were also told to take legal action against shop owners who overcharge customers.
There has been growing public discussion about liquor being sold at higher prices in some parts of the state. In the past, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu had also clearly stated that liquor must be sold only at MRP. Despite this, allegations continued in a few areas, and some videos showing customers questioning high prices at liquor shops went viral on social media.
With these complaints reaching him directly, Pawan Kalyan stepped in and took the issue seriously. He emphasized that protecting consumers is a priority and that rules must be followed without exception. The Deputy CM also underlined the need for transparency in liquor sales.
Excise officials are now expected to strengthen monitoring across Andhra Pradesh. The government has indicated that inspections will be more frequent in the coming days and that strict action will be taken against anyone found selling liquor above the permitted price.
