The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday conducted a search at the residence of Chhattisgarh’s former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel’s son as part of its investigation into the alleged liquor scam that is believed to have caused significant revenue loss to the state exchequer. This search is part of a wider crackdown that the agency has launched over the past few months into irregularities in the state’s liquor trade and distribution system.
According to sources familiar with the case, the ED is probing allegations that a network of individuals benefited financially from the illegal diversion of excise revenues, irregular issuance of licences, and manipulation of records. The alleged scam is said to involve several crores of rupees and has led to multiple raids across various locations in Chhattisgarh.
In this latest development, the ED team arrived at the residence of Bhupesh Baghel’s son early in the morning and carried out a detailed search. While no official statement has been released about any material seizure, officials confirmed that digital devices and documents were examined as part of standard procedure. The agency has previously stated that the case involves multiple layers of financial transactions and shell companies.
This search has triggered a sharp political reaction. The Congress party, led by Bhupesh Baghel in Chhattisgarh until recently, has accused the central government of using investigative agencies for political purposes. Party leaders claim that the timing of the action raises concerns about selective targeting ahead of elections and alleged misuse of central powers to discredit political opponents.
Bhupesh Baghel also responded to the ED action, stating that his family is fully cooperating with the investigation and that they have nothing to hide. He further alleged that such tactics are being used to distract from important public issues like unemployment, inflation, and agricultural distress.
Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has welcomed the ED’s efforts, stating that no one is above the law and that allegations of corruption must be investigated thoroughly. Party spokespersons in the state said the people of Chhattisgarh deserve a clean and transparent government, and every individual involved in financial misconduct should be held accountable, regardless of political affiliation.
The ED’s investigation into the liquor scam first came to public attention last year when several officials in the excise department were questioned regarding revenue discrepancies. Since then, the probe has expanded, leading to searches at business establishments, residences of government officers, and now family members of former political leaders.
Legal experts note that such cases may take time to reach conclusion, as they involve complex financial data and multiple stakeholders. However, they also stress the need for transparency in both investigation and political discourse to maintain public trust in democratic processes.
As the investigation continues, it is likely to remain a key issue in the state’s political landscape, with both ruling and opposition parties watching its developments closely.
