Why Was Liquor Businessman Vijay Bhatia Arrested in Delhi?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, liquor businessman Vijay Bhatia was arrested by the ACB and EOW in Delhi as part of the Chhattisgarh liquor scam investigation. This operation, which has unearthed massive financial irregularities, highlights the ongoing battle against corruption in the state. What does this mean for the political landscape?
Key Takeaways
- Vijay Bhatia arrested in Delhi for Chhattisgarh liquor scam.
- Raids conducted at multiple properties.
- Investigation uncovers substantial cash and assets.
- Allegations of financial misappropriation exceeding Rs 2,000 crore.
- Ongoing crackdown on corruption in the liquor trade.
Bhopal, June 1 (NationPress) The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) alongside the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) has apprehended liquor entrepreneur Vijay Bhatia in Delhi, linked to the ongoing Chhattisgarh liquor scam investigation.
Bhatia is currently being transported to Raipur as authorities execute searches at six of his properties located in Durg-Bhilai (Chhattisgarh).
In the early hours, around 6 a.m., EOW officials initiated a raid at Bhatia's residence in the Nehru Nagar locality of Bhilai.
Sources indicate that seven officers arrived in two vehicles, methodically scouring the premises and interrogating the occupants.
The household staff was allowed to continue their duties but were also questioned.
Female officers were present throughout the operation.
Previously, Bhatia had been targeted in a raid by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) two years back, after which he had evaded capture.
He has now been detained by the EOW.
Back on the birthday of former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, the ED conducted raids at the residences of his political advisor, his Officer on Special Duty (OSD), and Vijay Bhatia.
This incident ignited political discord between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress.
Baghel humorously dubbed the raid a birthday present from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Recently, the ACB and EOW executed simultaneous raids across 39 locations tied to the Chhattisgarh liquor scam, encompassing areas in Durg-Bhilai, Dhamtari, and Mahasamund.
These operations uncovered Rs 90 lakh in cash, along with gold, silver, and various electronic devices. In another operation, several teams arrived in Bhilai around 4 a.m. to conduct raids at various private residences.
The ED is presently delving into the liquor scam, with an FIR lodged with the ACB, alleging financial misappropriation exceeding Rs 2,000 crore.
Findings from the ED's investigation indicate that during the tenure of Baghel's government, a syndicate of officials and private businesspersons orchestrated the fraudulent operation.
The ACB's ongoing investigation reveals that between 2019 and 2022, illegal liquor was distributed through government-operated shops using counterfeit holograms, leading to significant revenue losses for the state.
Point of View
The arrest of Vijay Bhatia marks a crucial step in the fight against corruption within the liquor trade in Chhattisgarh. The ongoing investigations by the ACB and EOW signal a commitment to transparency and accountability, reinforcing the need for rigorous oversight in government dealings.
NationPress
25/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Vijay Bhatia?
Vijay Bhatia is a businessman involved in the liquor industry, currently under investigation for his role in the Chhattisgarh liquor scam.
What is the Chhattisgarh liquor scam?
The Chhattisgarh liquor scam involves allegations of financial misappropriation exceeding Rs 2,000 crore, linked to the distribution of illegal liquor through government-operated shops.
Why was Bhatia arrested?
Bhatia was arrested in connection with the Chhattisgarh liquor scam as part of an investigation by the ACB and EOW.
What actions have authorities taken recently?
Authorities have conducted simultaneous raids at numerous locations, recovering significant amounts of cash and assets linked to the scam.
What does this mean for the political landscape?
This arrest could lead to further investigations and political ramifications, especially given the previous controversies surrounding the liquor trade in the state.
