Why is the ED Seeking Fresh Remand of Chaitanya Baghel?
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Synopsis
Chaitanya Baghel, son of ex-Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel, faces fresh remand requests in a massive liquor scam case. The ED's investigations reveal a web of alleged money laundering that could impact state governance and legal precedents. Will the court's decision on Tuesday change the course of this high-profile case?
Key Takeaways
- Chaitanya Baghel is under investigation for alleged involvement in a ₹2,100 crore liquor scam.
- The ED claims he laundered over ₹1,000 crore from illicit activities.
- The hearing's outcome could affect his custody status.
- The case raises questions about governance and legal frameworks.
- Political and legal debates continue to intensify.
Raipur, Aug 18 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has requested a new custodial remand for Chaitanya Baghel, the son of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, as the 14-day interrogation period in the alleged ₹2,100 crore liquor scam has concluded.
However, the special court has postponed the hearing until Tuesday due to the reported passing of a senior member of the Bar Council. With the hearing delayed and no decision made, Chaitanya will remain in jail under judicial custody for one more day.
Chaitanya Baghel was taken into custody on July 18 after ED conducted raids at his residence in Bhilai. The agency claims he was instrumental in laundering over ₹1,000 crore derived from illicit activities of a liquor syndicate that functioned between 2019 and 2022 during the Congress-led administration.
The ED alleges that ₹16.7 crore was diverted into real estate ventures to disguise the source of the funds. The purported scam involved unreported sales of country-made liquor through government-operated stores, manipulation of FL-10A licenses for foreign liquor, and cartel-like practices supported by the Chhattisgarh State Marketing Corporation Limited (CSMCL).
The agency asserts that the syndicate obtained commissions from distillers and vendors, completely bypassing the state treasury.
In related news, Bhupesh Baghel faced a setback in his legal challenge against the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
On Monday, the Supreme Court declined to hear his petition questioning the constitutional validity of Sections 44, 50, and 63 of the Act. A bench led by Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi suggested that Baghel should take his case to the Chhattisgarh High Court.
Senior lawyers Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing the Baghel family, contended that the ED’s fragmented charge sheets and extended investigations infringed on fundamental rights and obstructed justice. However, the bench emphasized that further inquiry could ultimately assist the accused if it remains within legal limits.
As the legal confrontation escalates, the hearing scheduled for Tuesday will decide whether Chaitanya Baghel will return to ED custody or stay in judicial remand. This case continues to ignite political and legal discussions, with repercussions for both state governance and the broader interpretation of investigative authority under the PMLA.
Point of View
The ongoing legal battles surrounding Chaitanya Baghel highlight significant issues regarding governance and accountability in state politics. The implications of the ED's investigations and the broader interpretation of laws like the PMLA warrant careful attention, as they could set precedents impacting future governance and legal frameworks in India.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the liquor scam involving Chaitanya Baghel?
The liquor scam involves allegations of laundering over ₹2,100 crore through illicit liquor sales and manipulation of licenses during the Congress-led government.
Why was Chaitanya Baghel arrested?
Chaitanya Baghel was arrested following ED raids at his Bhilai residence, where he is alleged to have played a key role in the scam.
What are the legal challenges faced by Bhupesh Baghel?
Bhupesh Baghel's legal challenges include questioning the constitutional validity of certain sections of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
What will happen in the upcoming hearing?
The upcoming hearing will determine whether Chaitanya Baghel remains in judicial custody or is returned to ED custody.
What impact does this case have on state governance?
The case has significant implications for state governance and could influence legal interpretations of investigative powers under the PMLA.
