Wed Dec 25 22:49:12 UTC 2024: **Andhra Pradesh IIS Officer Accused of Corruption, Nepotism in Multi-Crore Scam**

AMARAVATI, Andhra Pradesh – December 26, 2024 – The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) of Andhra Pradesh has filed a case against Thumma Vijay Kumar Reddy, a former Indian Information Service (IIS) officer and ex-officio Secretary to the Information and Public Relations (I&PR) department, alleging widespread corruption, nepotism, and misuse of power. The FIR, filed in November 2024 but publicized on December 25th, details a multi-crore scam involving questionable appointments, biased advertising contracts, and financial irregularities.

The ACB alleges that Reddy engaged in quid pro quo by appointing 142 outsourcing employees, including PROs, photographers, and drivers, based on recommendations from politicians, bypassing standard recruitment procedures. His actions also allegedly included extending the contract of Kartikeya Security Agencies, instructing them to prioritize politically connected candidates. A further 113 positions were filled in the AP Digital Corporation Limited (APDC) based on recommendations from the then Chief Digital Director, G. Devendar Reddy. The ACB found that resumes were missing for some of the outsourced employees.

The investigation also uncovered irregularities in the allocation of advertising contracts. Of the ₹26.71 crore spent on video advertisements, ₹16.17 crore went to TV9, Sakshi, and NTV, while channels like ABN Andhra Jyothi, TV5, and Maha News received none between 2019 and February 2024. Reddy allegedly ordered the exclusion of these channels. Similarly, in print media, over ₹371.12 crore (more than 43%) of the total ₹859.29 crore spent on classified and display advertisements from 2019 to 2024 went to the Sakshi newspaper, with allegations of inflated rates and preferential treatment.

The ACB’s investigation is ongoing, led by Additional Superintendent of Police Mahendra Mathe. The case highlights serious allegations of corruption and abuse of power within the Andhra Pradesh government.

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