The inclusion of former IAS officer K Dhanunjay Reddy in the list of accused by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Andhra Pradesh police, which is probing the alleged liquor scam during the YSRCP regime, has added a new twist to the case.

More than anyone else, this development has reportedly brought a sense of satisfaction and relief to YSRCP leaders and cadre, who are well aware of the influential role Dhanunjay Reddy played in the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) — a role many believe contributed to the downfall of the Jagan Mohan Reddy-led government.

According to a senior YSRCP leader, Dhanunjay Reddy, who served as Secretary to the Chief Minister from 2019 to 2024, was a key figure in Jagan’s inner circle and wielded enormous power within the CMO.

“He operated almost like an extra-constitutional authority, overshadowing even senior officials. No file would move without his approval, and no bureaucratic transfer happened without his consent,” the leader said.

Beyond his official duties, Dhanunjay Reddy was also said to be heavily involved in party affairs, allegedly deciding appointments within both the party and government.

“He, along with a few others, was responsible for creating a disconnect between Jagan and the party cadre,” the leader added.

Sources further claimed that Dhanunjay Reddy played a pivotal role in selecting YSRCP candidates for both the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections, further consolidating his grip on the party.

Now that the SIT has named him as an accused and launched a manhunt to arrest him in connection with the liquor scam, several disgruntled YSRCP leaders are reportedly jubilant.

“At least now, Jagan should distance himself from such officials and focus on empowering sincere party workers,” the leader remarked.