What Are the Details of the Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam?
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Synopsis
Raipur, May 20 (NationPress) The ongoing investigation into Chhattisgarh's monumental liquor scam is raising eyebrows. With an estimated value of Rs 2,000 crore, coordinated raids by the ACB and EOW at 22 locations aim to uncover the intricate web of corruption involving politicians and bureaucrats. What shocking revelations lie ahead?
Key Takeaways
- The liquor scam in Chhattisgarh is valued at Rs 2,000 crore.
- Coordinated raids are being conducted by the ACB and EOW.
- Former Excise Minister Kawasi Lakhma has been arrested.
- The scam reportedly involved senior bureaucrats and politicians.
- Significant evidence has been uncovered during the investigation.
Raipur, May 20 (NationPress) The authorities in Chhattisgarh have intensified their investigation into a significant liquor scam, estimated to be a staggering Rs 2,000 crore. The Economic Offence Wing (EOW) and the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) have commenced a series of synchronized raids across various districts, notably in Durg-Bhilai and Mahasamund.
Reports indicate that enforcement teams are actively engaged in operations at 22 locations in Durg-Bhilai, having arrived in Bhilai on Tuesday morning with four vehicles.
Additional searches are being conducted in Sankara and Basna within the Mahasamund district, targeting individuals closely linked to former Excise Minister Kawasi Lakhma, as per sources.
The authorities have broadened their investigation to include business establishments, with EOW teams examining the residences of individuals believed to be involved in the scam.
The probe has expanded to the Mahasamund district, where enforcement teams have raided properties owned by a businessman and an LIC agent suspected of connections to the illicit liquor trade.
The ACB and EOW have conducted searches at over 20 locations statewide, focusing on key players implicated in the operation.
This investigation has generated considerable attention, with officials persistently uncovering vital evidence.
The Enforcement Directorate apprehended former Excise Minister Kawasi Lakhma on January 15 following multiple interrogations.
The ACB and EOW filed an FIR in January 2024 based on a correspondence from the Enforcement Directorate.
Recent discoveries suggest that the scam, which reportedly occurred between 2019 and 2022, led to significant financial detriment to the state treasury while generating illegal profits exceeding Rs 2,100 crore.
The syndicate behind this scheme allegedly includes senior bureaucrats, politicians, and excise department officials.
Authorities have previously seized cash, electronic devices, bank records, and land investment documents from the residences of suspects. The investigation continues to be active as officials strive to reveal the full scope of these fraudulent activities.
Point of View
It is critical to prioritize transparency and accountability in governance. This investigation sheds light on systemic corruption involving high-ranking officials, underscoring the need for unwavering vigilance and reform to safeguard the integrity of public service. The nation must support the pursuit of justice in this high-stakes case.
NationPress
07/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the estimated value of the liquor scam?
The liquor scam in Chhattisgarh is estimated to be worth Rs 2,000 crore, highlighting the scale of the corruption.
Who is involved in the liquor scam?
The scam allegedly involves senior bureaucrats, politicians, and officials from the excise department.
What actions have authorities taken regarding the scam?
Authorities, including the ACB and EOW, have conducted raids at over 20 locations to gather evidence and have arrested former Excise Minister Kawasi Lakhma.
When did the scam occur?
The illicit activities are believed to have taken place between 2019 and 2022, resulting in significant financial losses for the state.
What has been seized during the investigation?
Authorities have confiscated cash, electronic devices, bank records, and land investment documents from suspects' residences.
