Key Points:
- CBI Action: Raids conducted at Bhupesh Baghel’s residences in Raipur and Bhilai, as well as those of his close aides, linked to multiple scams.
- Scams Under Investigation: Mahadev betting app, liquor scam, coal scam, and PSC scam are at the center of the probe.
- Political Reaction: Congress accuses BJP-led central government of targeting Baghel for political reasons.
Raipur: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) launched a series of raids on Wednesday at multiple locations associated with former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister and Congress General Secretary Bhupesh Baghel. The raids, conducted at his residences in Raipur and Bhilai, as well as those of his close associates, are part of ongoing investigations into high-profile scams including the Mahadev betting app case, liquor scam, coal scam, and PSC scam.
Details of the Raids
CBI teams arrived early in the morning at Baghel’s properties and those linked to his associates, including Vinod Verma, his political advisor. CRPF personnel were deployed to secure the premises during the searches. The agency also raided the residence of Bhilai MLA Devendra Yadav, where supporters reportedly resisted entry. Officials seized ₹30 lakh in cash from Baghel’s residence during the operation.
The raids follow earlier actions by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which had investigated Baghel in connection with a ₹2,161 crore liquor scam. The ED alleged that illegal commissions were siphoned off between 2019 and 2022 under Baghel’s administration.
Scams Under Investigation
- Mahadev Betting App Case: The Mahadev app allegedly facilitated illegal betting on live games and elections, generating proceeds worth thousands of crores. Fugitive founders Sourabh Chandrakar and Ravi Uppal are accused of bribing officials to shield operations.
- Liquor Scam: A massive ₹2,161 crore loss to the state exchequer was reported due to unaccounted sales of country liquor from state-run shops.
- Coal Scam: Allegations include irregularities in coal procurement processes under Baghel’s tenure.
- PSC Scam: Linked to recruitment irregularities in the Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission (CGPSC).
Political Reactions
Congress has accused the BJP-led central government of using investigative agencies for political vendetta. Sushil Anand Shukla, head of Congress Communication Department, stated that these actions are an attempt to malign Baghel ahead of key party meetings. Baghel himself was scheduled to travel to Delhi for a Drafting Committee meeting for the AICC but was interrupted by the raids.
Baghel’s office released a statement on social media saying, “Now CBI has come,” implying political motives behind the timing of the operation.
Background and Implications
The Mahadev betting app case alone involves a larger conspiracy worth ₹6,000 crore. The CBI has consolidated over 77 FIRs filed by various police stations in Chhattisgarh into its investigation. Meanwhile, ED probes have revealed links between Baghel’s aides and Dubai-based promoters who allegedly funneled kickbacks into real estate investments.
These developments have sparked protests by Congress workers outside Baghel’s residence, accusing central agencies of bias against opposition leaders.
What’s Next?
Further details from CBI regarding evidence seized during these raids are awaited. With multiple high-profile investigations underway, this case is likely to remain a focal point in Chhattisgarh politics leading up to national elections.
