Did EOW Conduct Statewide Raids in Chhattisgarh's Excise Scam?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- EOW raids target liquor and coal dealers.
- Investigation into a multi-crore excise scam.
- Several incriminating documents have been recovered.
- Concerns over regulatory oversight have been raised.
- More names may emerge as the investigation progresses.
Raipur, Sep 21 (IANS) In a significant action against the alleged excise scam, the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Chhattisgarh executed a series of synchronized raids throughout the state on Sunday. The focus was on liquor and coal dealers believed to be linked to financial irregularities.
As per official reports, the EOW commenced surprise operations at 10 different sites across Raipur, Durg, and Bilaspur districts.
This operation is part of a continuing inquiry into a multi-crore excise scam that has shaken the state’s regulatory and business sectors.
A key target of the raids is a well-known liquor dealer from Raipur, where EOW officials were seen entering his residence with sealed documents and forensic teams, highlighting the gravity of the investigation.
Insiders indicate that the dealer's business practices are being scrutinized for alleged tax evasion and manipulation of excise records.
In Raipur, multiple locations are being searched at once, with teams deployed to scrutinize financial documents, transaction records, and digital evidence.
Similar operations are taking place in Durg and Bilaspur, where coal dealers are also under investigation for suspected ties to the scam. The excise scam reportedly involves the manipulation of liquor distribution licenses and underreporting of sales to evade taxes, raising serious concerns about regulatory oversight in the state.
The EOW's actions are viewed as a decisive move toward uncovering the connections between business operators and officials who may have facilitated these irregularities.
Officials have maintained silence on the findings thus far, stating that the investigation is in its initial stages and further details will be unveiled once preliminary evaluations are complete.
However, sources close to the inquiry suggest that several incriminating documents have already been uncovered. The raids have generated reactions from various political and business circles, with many demanding a transparent and thorough investigation.
As the EOW persists with its operations, more names are likely to emerge in connection with the scam. This is an evolving story, and further updates are anticipated as the investigation unfolds.