Is Bhupesh Baghel Challenging CBI-ED Authority in the Multi-Crore Liquor Scam?
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Synopsis
In a controversial move, former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel and his son challenge the authority of the CBI and ED regarding a high-stakes liquor scam probe. This legal battle unfolds against a backdrop of political tensions and allegations of vendetta politics.
Key Takeaways
- Bhupesh Baghel challenges authority of CBI and ED.
- Petition questions jurisdiction under PMLA.
- Political tensions escalate amid ongoing investigations.
- Chaitanya Baghel's arrest sparks protests from Congress.
- ED alleges major financial misconduct in liquor scam.
New Delhi, Aug 2 (NationPress) Former Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Bhupesh Baghel, along with his son Chaitanya Baghel, has taken their battle to the Supreme Court. They are questioning the legal jurisdiction of central investigative agencies, namely the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED), concerning the alleged misconduct related to the state’s multi-crore liquor scam.
This petition, reportedly filed amid rising political tensions, aims to determine whether these agencies have overstepped their boundaries as outlined in the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and related laws.
The case is set for a hearing on Monday by a bench featuring Justice Suryakant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi.
This development follows the recent arrest of Chaitanya Baghel by the ED, linked to a staggering Rs 2,160 crore liquor scam that reportedly thrived during Bhupesh Baghel’s time in office.
The ED asserts that a clandestine liquor distribution network has diverted enormous funds through unaccounted sales and illicit commissions, implicating various political and bureaucratic figures.
Bhupesh Baghel has publicly condemned the arrest and the subsequent raids at his residence in Bhilai, labeling them as politically motivated actions aimed at silencing dissent.
“The ED is being exploited as a weapon against opposition leaders,” he stated, claiming that the timing of the arrest—on his son’s birthday—symbolizes the Centre’s vendetta politics.
The Congress party has rallied behind Baghel, organizing protests in Raipur, Jagdalpur, and other districts, accusing the BJP-led Centre of using investigative agencies as tools of intimidation against political adversaries.
Chaitanya Baghel, son of the former Chief Minister, was arrested by the ED on July 18, 2025, coincidentally his birthday, as part of an ongoing probe into a Rs 2,160 crore liquor scam allegedly involving a consortium of politicians, bureaucrats, and liquor contractors.
ED officials executed raids at the Baghel family home in Bhilai, located in Durg district, early on July 18. Chaitanya was detained under Section 19 of the PMLA.
The ED cited lack of cooperation during the search as justification for immediate arrest. Bhupesh Baghel condemned the timing, calling it a “birthday present” from the Central government and accused them of political vendetta.
The initial raid at Bhilai occurred on March 10, 2025, with Baghel claiming this earlier action was orchestrated to prevent him from attending the state budget session, alleging political motives aimed at silencing opposition voices.
Between the March raid and the July arrest, Baghel asserted that no formal notice or inquiry was given to his son, raising concerns about procedural integrity.
The ED alleges that Chaitanya Baghel received Rs 16.70 crore in illicit funds and was instrumental in laundering over Rs 1,000 crore through real estate and various other channels.
This case has become a critical issue in the ongoing debate surrounding the utilization of central agencies against opposition leaders.
Point of View
The ongoing legal struggles of Bhupesh Baghel raise important questions about the use of investigative agencies in political disputes. While the allegations surrounding the liquor scam are serious, the narrative of political vendetta cannot be ignored. It is crucial to ensure that investigations maintain integrity and transparency, irrespective of political affiliations.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the basis of Bhupesh Baghel's Supreme Court petition?
Bhupesh Baghel is challenging the jurisdiction of the CBI and ED in investigating the multi-crore liquor scam, questioning whether they have exceeded their authority under the PMLA.
What are the allegations against Chaitanya Baghel?
Chaitanya Baghel is accused of receiving illicit funds and playing a significant role in laundering money as part of the liquor scam.
What has been the political reaction to the arrest of Chaitanya Baghel?
The Congress party has supported Bhupesh Baghel, claiming that the arrest is part of a politically motivated strategy by the BJP to intimidate opposition leaders.
What does the ED claim regarding the liquor scam?
The ED alleges that a parallel liquor distribution network siphoned off large sums of money through illegal sales and commissions, implicating numerous political and bureaucratic figures.
When was Chaitanya Baghel arrested?
Chaitanya Baghel was arrested on July 18, 2025, coinciding with his birthday.
