NEW DELHI: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Wednesday conducted raids at the residences of former Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel in Raipur and Bhilai, along with the premises of a senior police officer and a close associate of Baghel.
Baghel Alleges Political Motive Behind Raids
Reacting to the raids, Baghel claimed the action was politically motivated and aimed at preventing him from attending a key Congress meeting scheduled for April 8 and 9 in Ahmedabad.
Taking to X, Baghel posted, “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 in Ahmedabad on April 8 and 9.”
“Even before that, the CBI has already reached my residences in Raipur and Bhilai,” he added.
ED Raids and Alleged Liquor Scam
The CBI action comes just days after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) raided Baghel’s residence in connection with an alleged liquor scam. During the operation, the ED seized approximately ₹30 lakh in cash using a counting machine.
Details of the Alleged Scam
The investigation revolves around an alleged liquor scam that reportedly caused a “massive loss” to the state exchequer. Authorities claim the liquor syndicate siphoned off around ₹2,161 crore through various schemes between 2019 and 2022.
The ED’s findings suggest that the syndicate collected bribes from distillers for each liquor ‘case’ procured by the state liquor body. Additionally, unaccounted country liquor was allegedly sold from state-run shops, with no revenue reaching the state exchequer. The ED believes that all proceeds were pocketed by the syndicate.
Political Tensions Rise Ahead of Congress Meeting
With political tensions escalating, the timing of the raids has further fueled speculation, as Baghel and Congress allege that these actions are aimed at undermining opposition leaders ahead of crucial political events.
