India: Party spokesperson alleges political protection for casinos

Claims made at party headquarters

YSR Congress Party spokesperson Vangaveeti Narendra raised the issue publicly. He spoke at the party’s central office during a press briefing. Narendra accused the coalition government of weak control. The government is led by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.

According to him, casinos and card clubs operate openly across the state. He said gambling and drug networks appear unchecked. 

Alleged casino operations and political links

During the briefing, Narendra named Minister Parthasarathy. He linked the minister to a casino near Agiripalli in Eluru district. He said the casino has operated for nearly eight months.

According to Narendra, cash is collected openly at the venue. Players receive casino tokens on site. He alleged the minister receives regular payments from the operation.

Narendra called for the minister’s removal from the Cabinet. This demand adds pressure on the ruling coalition. 

Questions over policing priorities

The spokesperson also criticized how police resources are used. He claimed police focus on YSRCP leaders. According to him, illegal casinos and drug trade receive less attention.

He said action against narcotics shows limited results. Narendra questioned the Home Minister’s silence on drug control. He added that official claims about stopping MDMA and ganja appear doubtful.

Comparing past and current enforcement efforts

Narendra compared the current approach with the previous YSRCP government. He pointed to the Special Enforcement Bureau’s earlier work. According to party figures, the bureau destroyed ganja crops across 11,500 acres.

The program also supported tribal communities. It offered alternative livelihoods worth Rs 500 crore — about US$60 million. Subsequently, the current administration scrapped the bureau.

It replaced the unit with EAGLE — which Narendra described as weak and ineffective. The policy shift remains a major political issue.

Raid details add pressure

A recent police raid near Agiripalli added focus to the claims. Narendra said police found 280 users at the casino. Officers also seized Rs 50 lakh in cash.

He added that police found 120 cars and 50 bikes. Narendra alleged the raid received little media coverage — possibly due to political pressure.

He warned that his party may begin legal action and public protests. Hence, the issue could move into a longer political conflict. Main concerns raised:

• Casinos may operate with political backing

• Police focus appears selective

• Past enforcement efforts remain disputed

Beyond party politics, the claims raise wider concerns. They highlight issues of accountability and public trust — matters likely to stay in focus.