Has Chhattisgarh's ED Arrested a Former Deputy Secretary in a Liquor Scam?
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Synopsis
In a dramatic turn of events, the Enforcement Directorate has arrested Saumya Chaurasia, once a deputy secretary in Chhattisgarh's Chief Minister's Office, amid a vast liquor scam investigation. This arrest shines a light on a network of corruption involving high-profile figures and raises serious questions about the state's excise operations.
Key Takeaways
- Saumya Chaurasia arrested by Enforcement Directorate.
- Connection to a multi-crore liquor scam.
- Significant financial losses to the state treasury.
- Ongoing investigations may lead to further arrests.
- Corruption within the excise department revealed.
Raipur, Dec 19 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has taken into custody Saumya Chaurasia, who previously served as a deputy secretary within the Chhattisgarh Chief Minister's Office, linked to a substantial liquor scam investigation, as stated in an ED press release.
The arrest occurred on December 16 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, marking a notable intensification in the inquiry concerning alleged corruption within the state's excise department.
Chaurasia was presented before the Special Court (PMLA) in Raipur, where the court approved ED custody for three days, until December 19. The agency is expected to request further remand for comprehensive questioning, as indicated by the press release.
This case stems from a First Information Report (FIR) lodged by the Anti-Corruption Bureau/Economic Offences Wing (ACB/EOW) in Raipur, invoking sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
Investigations by the police estimate that the scam has led to losses exceeding billions for the state treasury, while generating over Rs 2,500 crore in proceeds of crime (POC), benefitting a network of bureaucrats, politicians, and businesspersons.
According to ED's findings, Chaurasia is alleged to have received around Rs 115.5 crore in unlawful funds. Digital evidence, seized documents, and testimonies depict her as a principal accomplice and crucial coordinator within the liquor syndicate.
Recovered communications purportedly reveal her as a facilitator for interactions among syndicate members, such as retired IAS officer Anil Tuteja and Chaitanya Baghel, the son of former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel.
Evidence also suggests her involvement in orchestrating the syndicate from its initiation, including aiding in the placement of officials like Arun Pati Tripathi and Niranjan Das in vital excise roles to manipulate liquor policies for illicit benefits.
Previously, the ED has apprehended several notable individuals: Anil Tuteja, Arvind Singh, Trilok Singh Dhillon, Arun Pati, Anwar Dhebar, Tripathi (ITS), Congress MLA and former Excise Minister Kawasi Lakhma, and Chaitanya Baghel, as noted by the ED press release.
The scam reportedly involved a cartel that fixed liquor prices, controlled supply chains, and demanded illegal commissions on sales, circumventing regulations during the prior Congress administration.
The ED's Raipur Zonal Office continues its investigation, with further arrests anticipated as they trace the financial trail and unveil deeper syndicate connections.
Point of View
This arrest underscores the ongoing challenges of corruption within government systems. It serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in public service. As the ED continues its investigation, it is essential for the public to stay informed about developments that affect governance and integrity in our institutions.
NationPress
19/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Saumya Chaurasia?
Saumya Chaurasia was a former deputy secretary in the Chhattisgarh Chief Minister's Office, recently arrested in connection with a liquor scam.
What is the liquor scam about?
The liquor scam involves allegations of corruption in the state's excise department, resulting in significant financial losses to the state.
What legal actions have been taken?
The Enforcement Directorate arrested Chaurasia under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, and is investigating several high-profile figures linked to the case.
How much money is involved in the scam?
The scam is estimated to have caused losses exceeding billions to the state, with proceeds of crime reportedly over Rs 2,500 crore.
Are more arrests expected?
Yes, the ED's ongoing investigation suggests that more arrests may occur as they uncover deeper connections within the syndicate.
