Singh News Media | July 18, 2025
Raipur/Bhilai — The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested Chaitanya Baghel, son of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, in connection with a major ₹2,100 crore liquor fraud and money-laundering investigation, following raids at his residence in Bhilai.
Investigators allege that Chaitanya was the key recipient of illicit proceeds from a state-wide liquor distribution syndicate active between 2019 and 2022. This cartel is said to have siphoned off substantial revenue by bypassing official channels and diverting unaccounted liquor to private outlets, according to ED statements.
The arrest coincided with a raid on Chaitanya’s Bhilai home, which is shared with his father. The timing—on Chaitanya’s birthday—prompted a sharp response from Bhupesh Baghel, who described it as a politically motivated act aimed at silencing opposition, especially just as he planned to raise concerns about environmental violations in the assembly.
📌 Political Fallout
Congress workers immediately staged protests outside the residence, and senior leaders, including Bhupesh Baghel, observed a boycott of assembly proceedings. The party has accused the central government of misusing investigative agencies to target rival leaders.
📌 What Lies Ahead
Further raids have already been conducted, and ED has reportedly attached assets worth an estimated ₹205 crore linked to the accused. The agency continues to gather evidence and may summon additional individuals under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) as the probe intensifies.
