ED Raids Bhupesh Baghel’s Son in Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam Probe – Political Storm Erupts
Date: 10-mar-2025
ED Raids Bhupesh Baghel's Son Over Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam; Political Tensions Rise
ED Cracks Down on Alleged ₹2,100 Crore Liquor Scam
On March 10, 2025, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) carried out raids at 14 locations across Chhattisgarh, including the residence of Chaitanya Baghel, son of former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel. The raids are part of an ongoing investigation into an alleged ₹2,100 crore liquor scam, which has sent shockwaves through the state's political circles.
Key Developments in the Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam Case
- ED raids: 14 locations targeted, including Chaitanya Baghel’s residence.
- Alleged scam size: Over ₹2,100 crore siphoned through liquor sales between 2019-2022.
- Political figures involved: Former Congress minister Kawasi Lakhma allegedly received ₹2 crore per month.
- Assets seized: ₹205 crore in properties attached so far.
- Bhupesh Baghel’s reaction: Calls the raids a politically motivated attack by the central government.
What Is the Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam?
The alleged scam, which took place between 2019 and 2022, involves a network of senior bureaucrats, politicians, and liquor traders. According to the ED, the group conspired to establish a monopoly over the liquor trade in Chhattisgarh, leading to massive revenue losses for the state.
How Did the Scam Work?
- Creation of an illegal cartel: Certain private players controlled liquor distribution in the state.
- Bribes to officials: Liquor traders allegedly paid high-ranking officials to secure favorable deals.
- Funds siphoned off: A portion of the revenue meant for the state was misappropriated.
- Political involvement: Reports suggest that some ministers and bureaucrats received monthly kickbacks.
Bhupesh Baghel Slams ED, Calls Raids “Political Vendetta”
Reacting to the ED’s actions, Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel accused the central government of misusing investigative agencies to target political rivals. He stated that the raids were an attempt to tarnish his reputation and intimidate opposition leaders ahead of upcoming elections.
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What Happens Next?
With the ED intensifying its probe, more summons and interrogations are expected in the coming weeks. Officials are working to trace the full extent of the scam and recover misappropriated funds.
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