How did the ED attach assets worth ₹61.20 crore of Chaitanya Baghel in Chhattisgarh liquor scam?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, the ED has provisionally attached assets worth ₹61.20 crore belonging to Chaitanya Baghel, implicating him in the extensive Chhattisgarh liquor scam. This action unveils the depth of the financial network involved and highlights ongoing investigations into this high-profile case.
Key Takeaways
- ED has attached assets worth ₹61.20 crore of Chaitanya Baghel.
- The investigation is part of the larger Chhattisgarh liquor scam probe.
- Baghel allegedly played a central role in the criminal syndicate.
- Earlier seizures have totaled around ₹215 crore.
- Ongoing investigations may result in further actions against implicated individuals.
Raipur, Nov 13 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED), based in the Raipur Zonal Office, has provisionally attached assets amounting to ₹61.20 crore that belong to Chaitanya Baghel under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
This action is part of the ongoing investigation into the extensive Chhattisgarh liquor scam.
Officials report that the attached assets comprise 364 residential plots and agricultural land estimated at ₹59.96 crore, in addition to bank balances and fixed deposits totaling ₹1.24 crore.
The asset attachment stems from investigations initiated following an FIR lodged by the Anti-Corruption Bureau/Economic Offences Wing (ACB/EOW), Raipur, under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860, and the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
Earlier police investigations disclosed that the liquor scam led to significant losses for the state exchequer, generating over ₹2,500 crore in proceeds of crime (POC) for the beneficiaries.
The ED’s inquiry under the PMLA confirmed that Chaitanya Baghel, the son of former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, played a pivotal role in the criminal syndicate.
At the top of the hierarchy, he allegedly acted as the controller, managing the accounts of illicit funds.
Crucial decisions regarding the collection, channeling, and distribution of POC were reported to be made under his directives.
Furthermore, the ED discovered that Baghel received POC, which he laundered through his real estate businesses, presenting them as legitimate assets.
Investigators revealed that funds from the liquor scam were utilized for the development of his real estate project 'Vitthal Green', under his proprietary concern, M/s Baghel Developers.
Baghel was arrested by the ED on July 18, 2025, and currently remains in judicial custody. This latest asset attachment of ₹61.20 crore adds to previous seizures of immovable properties valued around ₹215 crore, marking a significant advance in the agency’s efforts to dismantle the financial network linked to the scam.
The case has already resulted in the arrests of several prominent individuals, including former IAS officer Anil Tuteja, Arvind Singh, Trilok Singh Dhillon, Anwar Dhebar, Arun Pati Tripathi (ITS), and Kawasi Lakhma, MLA and former Excise Minister of Chhattisgarh.
The ED has stated that investigations are ongoing and further actions may ensue as the agency continues to trace and attach assets linked to the POC in the state’s most significant liquor scandal.
Point of View
This development underscores the ongoing battle against corruption in India. The actions taken by the ED reflect a commitment to uphold integrity and accountability within governance, especially in light of the severe impact of the liquor scam on the state's finances.
NationPress
13/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Chhattisgarh liquor scam?
The Chhattisgarh liquor scam is a significant corruption case involving the illegal liquor trade that resulted in substantial financial losses to the state.
Who is Chaitanya Baghel?
Chaitanya Baghel is the son of former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel and has been implicated in the ongoing liquor scam investigation.
What actions has the ED taken against Baghel?
The ED has provisionally attached assets worth ₹61.20 crore belonging to Chaitanya Baghel as part of the investigation into the liquor scam.
What is the Prevention of Money Laundering Act?
The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, is a law aimed at preventing money laundering and ensuring the confiscation of proceeds of crime.
Are there other individuals involved in the liquor scam?
Yes, several high-profile individuals, including former IAS officers and politicians, have been arrested in connection with the scam.
