Why is Sachin Pilot Criticizing the BJP and ED Over Chaitanya Baghel's Arrest?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Sachin Pilot's criticism of the BJP and ED highlights political tensions in Chhattisgarh.
- The liquor scam continues to dominate headlines with serious allegations against key figures.
- Political narratives are sharply divided, with Congress claiming persecution and the BJP defending their actions.
- The situation reflects the broader challenges facing Congress as it navigates political turmoil.
- Public perception will play a crucial role in shaping future political dynamics in the state.
Raipur, July 26 (NationPress) The political climate in Chhattisgarh escalated on Saturday as Congress leader and secretary Sachin Pilot fiercely criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED). He accused them of orchestrating a strategy aimed at undermining and isolating the leadership of the historic party nationwide.
Pilot made these comments during his visit to Raipur Central Jail, where he met with Chaitanya Baghel, the son of former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, along with former Excise Minister Kawasi Lakhma. Both are currently detained over their involvement in the Rs 2,100 crore liquor scam.
The ED alleges that Chaitanya Baghel managed over Rs 1,000 crore in illicit funds and utilized Rs 16.7 crore to support a real estate venture.
After his jail visit, Pilot told reporters, "The BJP government is employing central agencies like the ED to tarnish the reputation of Congress leaders and distract the public from pressing issues. Anyone who opposes their agenda of commodifying national resources, whether it’s Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, or regional figures like Chaitanya Baghel and Kawasi Lakhma, is being targeted."
Pilot noted that both detainees appeared to be in good health and demonstrated resilience. He quoted Chaitanya as saying, "I am not afraid. Regardless of what the BJP does to my family, we will not retreat even a single step. Congress remains united and will persist in its political fight with unwavering faith in the justice system."
The BJP responded vigorously to Pilot's visit. Raipur North MLA Purandar Mishra characterized the Congress's actions as "family-focused theatrics," asserting that a party with a 140-year history has now devolved into serving dynastic interests.
Mishra also criticized the Congress's recent economic blockade protest, stating, "If they had managed their finances better, they wouldn't be in this predicament. Even the laborers they brought for the protest were left unpaid and caused chaos. The liquor scam investigation has resulted in multiple arrests, including former minister Kawasi Lakhma, businessman Anwar Dhebar, and senior bureaucrats."
The ED claims that the conspiracy behind the scam unfolded between 2019 and 2022, resulting in substantial losses to the state treasury.
As the investigation continues, the political ramifications are deepening, with Congress framing the arrests as politically motivated while the BJP defends them as lawful enforcement actions.