Will Chaitanya Baghel's Judicial Remand Be Extended Again in the Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam Case?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Judicial remand of Chaitanya Baghel extended till September 15.
- ED investigation focuses on money laundering linked to a liquor syndicate.
- Chaitanya has been accused of not cooperating during questioning.
- The case has political implications involving the former Chief Minister.
- Multiple individuals connected to the case are already incarcerated.
Raipur, Sep 6 (NationPress) A special court in Raipur has, on Saturday, extended the judicial remand of Chaitanya Baghel, the son of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, as part of the ongoing multi-crore liquor scam investigation. His remand now lasts until September 15.
Chaitanya participated in the court proceedings via video link from Raipur Central Jail, where he has been detained since his apprehension by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on July 18 following raids at his residence in Bhilai.
This marks the fourth extension of his remand period.
Sources indicate that the ED may file a charge sheet against Chaitanya on the same day his current remand concludes, September 15.
The ED's investigation is centered on alleged money laundering associated with a liquor syndicate that reportedly functioned from 2019 to 2022, allegedly amassing over Rs 2,100 crore through illicit sales, license manipulation, and kickbacks.
This inquiry stems from cases brought forth by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) in Raipur.
During previous custodial investigations, Chaitanya faced intense questioning regarding the suspected laundering of Rs 16.7 crore through real estate projects, which the ED asserts is part of a broader scam.
He has also been accused of lacking cooperation during the interrogation.
The case holds significant political implications, with Bhupesh Baghel alleging that the Centre is using investigative bodies to target political opponents.
Both Bhupesh and Chaitanya previously sought bail from the Supreme Court, challenging the authority of the CBI and ED in this matter. However, the court dismissed their petition, instructing them to approach the High Court instead.
Notably, several key individuals, including former IAS officer Anil Tuteja, Arvind Singh, Trilok Singh Dhillon, Anwar Dhebar, ITS officer Arun Pati Tripathi, and MLA Kawasi Lakhma, are already facing incarceration.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated proceedings against them, citing charges of money laundering and corruption.