In a significant development, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted searches at the residences of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel in Raipur and Bhilai on March 26, 2025. These actions are part of an ongoing probe into an alleged liquor scam that reportedly caused a loss of ₹2,161 crore to the state exchequer.
In This Article:
Background of the Alleged Liquor Scam
The alleged scam, which is said to have occurred between 2019 and 2023 during the Congress party’s tenure in Chhattisgarh, involves accusations of corruption within the state’s excise department. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has previously claimed that a syndicate led by Anwar Dhebar, brother of Raipur Mayor and Congress leader Aijaz Dhebar, and retired IAS officer Anil Tuteja, manipulated liquor policies and established a parallel system for selling liquor. This syndicate allegedly collected commissions from distillers and sold unaccounted-for country liquor through state-run shops, diverting substantial funds from the state treasury.
Details of the CBI Searches
The CBI’s recent searches targeted multiple locations associated with Bhupesh Baghel, including his residences in Raipur and Bhilai. These operations also extended to the premises of a senior police officer and close associates of the former chief minister. During the raids, officials reportedly seized approximately ₹30 lakh in cash, utilizing counting machines to account for the funds. The searches are linked to the broader investigation into the liquor scam, aiming to uncover further evidence of financial misconduct and the misappropriation of state funds.
Bhupesh Baghel’s Response
Reacting to the CBI’s actions, Bhupesh Baghel suggested that the timing of the raids was politically motivated, aiming to hinder his participation in an upcoming Congress meeting scheduled for April 8 and 9 in Ahmedabad. He expressed his concerns on social media, stating, “Now the CBI has arrived. Today, former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel is scheduled to travel to Delhi for a meeting of the ‘Drafting Committee’ formed for the AICC meeting to be held in Ahmedabad on the upcoming 8th and 9th of April. Even before that, the CBI has already reached his residences in Raipur and Bhilai.” This statement implies that the raids are an attempt to disrupt his political engagements and responsibilities within the Congress party.
Political Implications and Reactions
The CBI’s actions have sparked significant political debate, with supporters of Baghel viewing the raids as an attempt to tarnish his reputation and impede his political activities. Critics, however, argue that the investigations are necessary to address allegations of corruption and ensure accountability in public office. The Congress party has yet to release an official statement regarding the raids, but the developments are likely to influence internal dynamics and strategies, especially in the context of the upcoming AICC meeting.
Broader Context of the Investigation
The alleged liquor scam has been under scrutiny for some time, with the ED previously conducting similar raids at Baghel’s residence. The investigation has implicated various individuals, including former excise minister Kawasi Lakhma, who was arrested in January for his alleged role in the scam. The ED’s findings suggest that the syndicate collected commissions from distillers and sold unaccounted-for liquor, resulting in significant financial losses for the state. The recent CBI searches indicate a continued and intensified effort by central agencies to probe the depths of the alleged corruption.
Legal and Administrative Ramifications
The ongoing investigations by the CBI and ED could lead to legal proceedings against those found culpable, potentially resulting in prosecutions and convictions. For Bhupesh Baghel, a seasoned politician with a significant following, the outcomes of these investigations could have profound implications on his political career and future prospects. Administratively, the case underscores the need for stringent oversight and reforms within the state’s excise department to prevent such incidents of alleged corruption.
Public and Media Response
The public’s reaction to the raids and the broader investigation has been mixed. While some citizens express concern over potential political motivations behind the actions, others emphasize the importance of addressing corruption and ensuring transparency in governance. Media coverage has been extensive, with various outlets providing in-depth analyses and updates on the developments. The case has also sparked discussions on social media platforms, reflecting the public’s keen interest in the proceedings and their implications.
The CBI’s searches at the residences of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel mark a significant escalation in the investigation into the alleged liquor scam. As central agencies continue to probe the matter, the political, legal, and administrative ramifications are expected to unfold in the coming months. The case serves as a critical reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in public office, highlighting the need for continued vigilance against corruption.
By – Jyothi
