The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted raids on the residences of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on March 26, 2025. This action is part of an ongoing investigation into an alleged liquor scam that has reportedly caused a significant financial loss to the state.
Background of the Allegations
The liquor scam is said to have occurred between 2019 and 2022, during Baghel's tenure as Chief Minister. It is alleged that a syndicate siphoned off approximately ₹2,161 crore from the state's excise department through various illegal activities. The investigation suggests that those involved in the scam collected bribes from distillers for each case of liquor procured by the state-run liquor body. Additionally, it is claimed that sales of country liquor from state-run shops went unaccounted for, with all proceeds allegedly pocketed by the syndicate members.
Details of the Raids
On the morning of March 26, CBI officials raided Baghel's homes in Raipur and Bhilai. They also searched the residences of a senior police officer and a close associate of Baghel. During these raids, the CBI seized around ₹30 lakh in cash, which was counted using a machine at Baghel's residence. The CBI has not publicly disclosed specific details regarding the case tied to these searches, but they follow earlier actions taken by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which had previously raided Baghel's home and those of his associates.
Previous Investigations
The ED had conducted searches at multiple locations related to Baghel earlier this month, focusing on allegations involving his son, Chaitanya Baghel. The ED's investigations revealed that a criminal syndicate led by individuals connected to local politics was involved in manipulating liquor policies to create a parallel system for selling liquor. This operation allegedly involved significant illegal commissions that were funneled to politicians.
In addition to the liquor scam, Bhupesh Baghel is also facing scrutiny for his alleged involvement in a separate ₹6,000 crore scam related to an online betting app called Mahadev Online Book. This case has led to accusations against him for cheating, criminal conspiracy, and forgery under various sections of the Indian Penal Code.
Reactions from Bhupesh Baghel
In response to the CBI's actions, Bhupesh Baghel’s office raised questions about the timing of the raids. They noted that these searches coincided with his scheduled trip to Delhi for an important meeting related to Congress party activities. His team suggested that such actions are politically motivated and aimed at undermining his position within the party.
Political Context
Bhupesh Baghel served as the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh from December 2018 until December 2023. He played a significant role in reviving the Congress party in Chhattisgarh after several setbacks due to internal conflicts and external pressures. His leadership was marked by promises such as farm loan waivers and increased support prices for paddy farmers.
The current investigations into his conduct come at a time when political tensions are high in Chhattisgarh, especially following recent elections where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) regained power in the state. These developments could have implications not only for Baghel's political career but also for the Congress party as it navigates challenges ahead.
Conclusion
The CBI raids on Bhupesh Baghel’s residences mark a significant moment in ongoing investigations into corruption in Chhattisgarh’s political landscape. As more details emerge about the alleged liquor scam and other related cases, it remains crucial for both investigators and political leaders to ensure transparency and accountability. The outcome of these investigations may shape not only Baghel’s future but also influence public trust in political institutions within the state.
As this situation develops, it will be important to monitor how these allegations impact both local governance and broader political dynamics in India.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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