Synopsis
In light of recent raids by the Enforcement Directorate in Chhattisgarh, Congress has organized statewide protests, which will include the symbolic burning of effigies of the ED and BJP. The raids, linked to a liquor scam, have intensified political tensions between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress.Key Takeaways
- Congress announced protests following ED raids.
- Raids targeted properties linked to Chaitanya Baghel.
- Accusations exchanged between BJP and Congress.
- Protests included incidents of stone-pelting.
- FIR filed against 25 individuals for obstructing ED.
Raipur, March 11 (NationPress) In reaction to multiple raids executed by the Enforcement Directorate across Chhattisgarh, the Congress party has declared plans for state-wide demonstrations, which will include the symbolic burning of effigies representing both the ED and the Bharatiya Janata Party.
On Monday, the ED carried out searches at 14 different locations, including the home of Chaitanya Baghel, the son of former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel.
These raids targeted properties associated with Baghel and his close allies in Durg district in connection with a significant liquor scam.
The operation has triggered a heated exchange of blame between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress.
While Congress claims that the ED is acting out of political motivations fueled by the BJP, the latter insists that the ED intervenes only when there is misconduct.
Additionally, the ED has summoned Baghel's son, Chaitanya, for questioning, intensifying the already charged atmosphere.
The raids incited anger among Congress supporters, who protested throughout the day. Reports indicate that some demonstrators engaged in stone-pelting, targeting the vehicles of ED officials as they left Baghel's residence.
The police in Durg district confirmed that they received a verbal complaint from the ED regarding the incident, reporting damage to a vehicle's window.
Police officials have promised to investigate and take suitable actions. The Bhilai Police have filed an FIR against 25 individuals, accusing them of obstructing government operations, vandalism, and blocking the ED convoy.
Arrests are anticipated shortly, according to police sources.
These raids are reportedly linked to an investigation into a money laundering case associated with Chaitanya Baghel and an alleged liquor scam.
The operation also extended to properties tied to Laxmi Narayan Bansal (popularly known as Pappu Bansal) and others.
Chaitanya, who lives with his father in Bhilai, has become a central figure in this investigation.
In the meantime, Bhupesh Baghel shared on his X account: Aaj Ka Karyakram (with a self-portrait), 11 March, subah 11 baje, Vidhan Sabha Satra, indicating his intent to challenge the government in the state Assembly this morning.
The Budget session of the Assembly, which commenced on February 24, is set to conclude on March 21.
