The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted searches at multiple locations in Chhattisgarh, including the residence of former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel. The raids took place in Raipur, Bhilai, and the homes of a senior police officer and a close associate of Baghel.
The CBI has not yet disclosed the reason for the searches. Meanwhile, Bhupesh Baghel’s office issued a statement, mentioning that the raid happened just before his scheduled trip to Delhi for an important Congress party meeting.
Recent ED Raids at Baghel’s Residence
Earlier, on March 10, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) also searched Baghel’s residence in Bhilai as part of an investigation into an alleged liquor scam. The case involves money laundering allegations against his son, Chaitanya Baghel.
During the raids, the ED seized ₹30 lakh in cash and some documents. Additionally, searches were conducted at 13 locations, including the home of Pappu Bansal, a close associate of Chaitanya Baghel. Reports suggest that Chaitanya may have been summoned for questioning.
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Baghel has claimed that these actions by the probe agencies are politically motivated, calling them a result of the BJP’s frustration. Following the ED’s raids, Congress leaders staged protests against the central government, accusing it of using agencies for political attacks.
What is the Alleged Liquor Scam?
According to the ED, the liquor scam took place between 2019 and 2022, when Bhupesh Baghel was the Chief Minister. The agency alleges that a liquor syndicate illegally made over ₹2,100 crore, causing a huge loss to the state government.
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As political tensions rise, the investigation into the alleged scam continues.
