Key Points:
- ED Raids: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) raided 14 locations in Chhattisgarh, including the home of Chaitanya Baghel, son of former CM Bhupesh Baghel.
- Liquor Scam Investigation: The raids are linked to a Rs 2,161 crore liquor scam, with several officials and former minister Kawasi Lakhma already arrested.
- Allegations Against Lakhma: Lakhma is accused of receiving Rs 72 crore in commissions and using it for personal expenses.
Raipur: In a significant development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids at 14 locations across Chhattisgarh, including the residence of Chaitanya Baghel, son of former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel. These raids are part of an ongoing investigation into a massive liquor scam worth approximately Rs 2,161 crore. The ED’s action has sent shockwaves through the state’s political landscape, with multiple teams simultaneously searching various premises and scrutinizing important documents and digital data.
Background of the Liquor Scam
The liquor scam in Chhattisgarh involves allegations of a syndicate comprising senior bureaucrats, politicians, and excise officials who allegedly sold large quantities of illegal liquor by using fake holograms on licensed liquor shops. This resulted in significant revenue losses for the state government. Former Excise Minister Kawasi Lakhma was arrested earlier this year for his alleged role in the scam, accused of receiving Rs 72 crore in commissions, which he used to build a luxurious bungalow for his son and other personal expenses.
Investigation Timeline
The ED’s investigation into the liquor scam has been ongoing since 2019, when the scam first came to light. Several high-profile arrests have been made, including Anil Tuteja, Anwar Dhebar, and AP Tripathi. The recent raids on Chaitanya Baghel’s properties indicate that the investigation is expanding, potentially implicating more individuals linked to the former CM’s family.
Political Fallout
The ED’s actions have been criticized by the Congress, with Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel accusing the BJP-led central government of using investigative agencies for political vendetta. The raids come at a sensitive time, with the state’s political landscape already tense following recent elections. The ED’s investigation is expected to continue, with potential further arrests and revelations that could have significant implications for Chhattisgarh’s political leadership.
