In a high-profile development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested Chaitanya Baghel, the son of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, in connection with a Rs2,000 crore liquor scam. The alleged scam, which operated from 2019 to 2022, is believed to have generated massive illegal profits through an extensive corruption network in the state’s liquor trade.
Chaitanya’s arrest came after multiple ED raids on premises linked to the Baghel family. The agency claims to have uncovered significant evidence pointing to financial misconduct, illegal commissions, and money laundering.
Former CM Bhupesh Baghel reacted sharply, emphasizing the timing of the arrest. “Today is my son’s birthday, and they arrested him — this cannot be a coincidence,” he said, suggesting the action was politically motivated. The Congress party echoed his concerns, calling it a case of “political vendetta” by the ruling powers at the Centre.
Several senior Congress leaders gathered at the court in solidarity with Chaitanya Baghel, who was presented before the ED for custody. The arrest is seen as a major setback for the party in Chhattisgarh, where Bhupesh Baghel remains a key political figure.
The ED is expected to further investigate the network of beneficiaries and financial transactions connected to the case.
