ED raids Bhupesh Baghel's son's properties in Chhattisgarh liquor scam
What's the story
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated a series of raids at several premises linked to Chaitanya Baghel, son of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel. This is part of a continuing probe into a money laundering case connected to an alleged liquor scam in the state. Raids are being carried out at 14 locations across Chhattisgarh, related to Chaitanya and others involved in this case.
Investigation details
Chaitanya Baghel linked to proceeds from liquor scam
The ED's probe has found that Chaitanya Baghel is one of the recipients of proceeds of crime made through the liquor scam. The total amount involved in the racket is around ₹2,161 crore. An agency official said, "During the investigation, we have uncovered some evidence that links Chaitanya Baghel to the scam. Based on existing evidence, we are conducting these searches."
Syndicate operations
ED's probe reveals involvement of politicians, bureaucrats
The ED's probe has revealed a complex network allegedly involving senior bureaucrats, politicians, and officials from the Excise Department. As per the ED, the syndicate was operating a "parallel" excise system, in which unaccounted liquor was sold via government-run outlets without proper documentation. The agency also exposed the use of duplicate holograms and bottles to facilitate the sale of illicit liquor.
Key players
ED's prosecution complaint names key individuals
In July 2023, the ED lodged a prosecution complaint against key accused including Anwar Dhebar, brother of Raipur Mayor Aijaz Dhebar; former IAS officer Anil Tuteja; and Arunpati Tripathi, Managing Director of Chhattisgarh State Marketing Corporation Limited (CSMCL). They allegedly played a major role in orchestrating the scam by manipulating procurement processes and accepting commissions from select liquor manufacturers.
Asset seizure
ED attaches properties worth ₹205 crore
The alleged corruption had caused a loss of ₹2,161 crore to the state exchequer, the ED's probe found. The agency has attached properties worth approximately ₹205 crore linked to various accused, including businessmen and former bureaucrats. Baghel had previously refuted charges related to the scheme, describing the ED's actions as politically motivated. According to the ED, the alleged scam occurred between 2019 and 2022, when the Congress government led by Baghel was in power.