ED Sends Summons to Bhupesh Baghel's Son, Chaitanya Baghel. Interrogation Possible in Liquor Scam. Investigation Continues Based on Documents Recovered During March 10 Raid.
Chaitanya Baghel News: The troubles for Chaitanya Baghel, son of Chhattisgarh's former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, may be escalating. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned him for questioning, and his appearance before the agency is expected today. Chaitanya is likely to be questioned in connection with the alleged liquor scam in Chhattisgarh.
Raid on Bhupesh Baghel's Residence
It is noteworthy that on March 10, an ED team conducted raids on Bhupesh Baghel's residence and ten other locations. During the raid, the team recovered a significant amount of cash and several crucial documents. The agency may now question Chaitanya Baghel about the source of this cash and these documents.
Former Excise Minister Already Imprisoned
Chhattisgarh's former Excise Minister, Kawasi Lakhma, is already in jail in connection with this alleged scam. Furthermore, several officials and liquor traders have also been arrested. The ED may make further arrests in this case.
Who is Chaitanya Baghel?
Chaitanya Baghel is the son of Chhattisgarh's former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel and is also known as "Bittu." He is involved in the real estate business, building and selling luxury apartments under the name "Victor Purm." According to a media report, he owns assets worth crores and invests heavily in real estate.
What is the Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam?
According to the ED, a liquor scam took place in Chhattisgarh between 2019 and 2022, involving an alleged embezzlement of approximately ₹2161 crore. The agency claims that this scam caused significant losses to the state exchequer.
In 2023, the ED filed a formal complaint in this case, which included several influential names. These include former Raipur Mayor Ajaz Dhebar, former IAS officer Anil Toteja, and the Managing Director of Chhattisgarh State Marketing Corporation Limited, Arunpati Tripathi, who were prominently named. According to the ED, these individuals played key roles in the scam.
