The Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam has become a major political and financial controversy, attracting nationwide attention. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has alleged that between 2019 and 2022, a well-organized liquor syndicate defrauded the state government, causing a loss of over ₹2,100 crore to public revenue. The scam allegedly involved high-ranking officials, politicians, and businessmen who pocketed illicit profits from liquor sales.
What is the Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam?
The ED claims that a liquor syndicate was operating illegally in Chhattisgarh under the Congress-led government, allowing unauthorized liquor sales and siphoning off huge amounts of money. Instead of state revenue benefiting from liquor sales, these funds allegedly went into the pockets of corrupt officials and political figures.
The key players named in the scam include:
- Kawasi Lakhma (Former Minister, Congress)
- Anwar Dhebar (Brother of Raipur Mayor Aijaz Dhebar)
- Anil Tuteja (Former IAS Officer)
- Arunpati Tripathi (Indian Telecommunication Service Officer)
- Several other bureaucrats and businessmen
The ED has so far seized assets worth ₹205 crore in connection with the case.
ED Raids on Former CM Bhupesh Baghel’s Residence
The investigation took a dramatic turn when ED conducted raids at the residence of former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel and his son Chaitanya Baghel. On March 11, 2025, ED teams carried out searches at 13 locations in Bhilai and Durg, including Baghel’s home.
Key Findings of the Raid
- ₹33 lakh cash was recovered from Bhupesh Baghel’s residence.
- Several important documents and digital records were seized.
- ED suspects Chaitanya Baghel’s involvement in receiving money from the scam.
Baghel strongly condemned the raids, calling them “politically motivated” and accusing the BJP-led central government of using central agencies to target opposition leaders.
Political Reactions & Controversy
The ED raids have triggered a political storm in Chhattisgarh.
Bhupesh Baghel’s Response
- He accused the BJP of using ED to silence political opponents.
- Claimed that his family’s farming income justified the cash found at home.
- Alleged that ED ignored evidence against BJP leaders, including documents linked to former CM Raman Singh’s family business.
BJP’s Stand
- The BJP has defended the ED action, stating that “corrupt politicians must be held accountable.”
- BJP leaders claim that the Congress government facilitated a massive liquor scam, robbing public funds.
Legal and Political Implications
With Chhattisgarh elections in focus, this case is set to influence the state’s political landscape. If further evidence links Chaitanya Baghel or other Congress leaders to the scam, the party could face serious setbacks.
Meanwhile, the ED continues its probe, and more revelations are expected in the coming days.
Conclusion
The Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam has put the spotlight on corruption in liquor sales and political funding. As the ED intensifies its investigation, the case could have significant legal, financial, and political repercussions. Whether this is a genuine anti-corruption drive or a politically motivated attack remains a heated debate.