ED Raids Chhattisgarh Ex-CM Bhupesh Baghel’s Son Chaitanya in Liquor Scam Probe
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday raided the residence of Chaitanya Baghel, son of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, as part of a probe into an alleged liquor scam linked to money laundering. The agency searched 15 locations across the state, including Chaitanya’s home in Bhilai. The operation, conducted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), intensifies scrutiny into the high-profile case.
The ED has alleged that the Chhattisgarh liquor scam caused significant losses to the state exchequer, generating over Rs 2,100 crore in illicit profits for a liquor syndicate. Searches spanned multiple cities, focusing on premises tied to the scam. The agency has previously arrested several suspects, including bureaucrats and businessmen.
Last year, federal investigators claimed a criminal syndicate manipulated key state departments to collect illegal bribes. The ED’s probe points to coordinated efforts by influential figures to siphon funds through liquor sales. This marks a significant escalation in the ongoing investigation.
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In December, the ED searched the homes of Congress MLA Kawasi Lakhma, his son Harish, and party leader Raju Sahu. Lakhma, a former Excise Minister named in an FIR with 70 others, lost the Bastar Lok Sabha seat to BJP’s Mahesh Kashyap this year. The liquor issue has long sparked political battles in the state.
The ED earlier stated, “The scam resulted in massive loss to the state while enriching a liquor syndicate with proceeds of crime.” These funds, it alleges, were diverted through illegal channels under the watch of top officials. The agency continues to gather evidence to support its claims.
Liquor remains a major revenue source for Chhattisgarh, but it has also fueled rivalry between Congress and BJP. The scam allegations have added a new layer to this tussle. The ED’s actions signal a deepening probe into financial irregularities tied to the state’s liquor policies.
The ED is expected to widen its investigation, with more searches and potential arrests on the horizon. Political reactions from Congress and BJP are anticipated as the case unfolds. Updates on findings and legal proceedings will likely follow in the coming days.
