Bhilai (Chhattisgarh), July 16, 2025: In a dramatic development that has shaken Chhattisgarh politics, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Chaitanya Baghel, son of senior Congress leader and former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, in connection with a massive liquor scam involving alleged proceeds of over ₹2,100 crore. He was taken into custody under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) after fresh searches were conducted at his residence in Bhilai.
Arrest Follows Fresh Evidence, Claims ED
According to ED officials, Chaitanya was arrested under Section 19 of the PMLA, citing his non-cooperation during the searches triggered by new evidence. The searches were conducted at Bhilai Niwas, the residence shared by both Chaitanya and his father Bhupesh Baghel, in Durg district.
The probe agency has reportedly traced ₹17 crore in alleged “proceeds of crime” to companies linked to Chaitanya Baghel. These are believed to be part of the larger network tied to the liquor syndicate, which ED claims defrauded the state exchequer of over ₹2,100 crore.
Chaitanya Sent to Five-Day ED Custody
A special court handling PMLA matters has sent Chaitanya Baghel to five days’ custody, allowing ED time for interrogation. Sources within the agency indicate that more arrests and seizures could follow as the investigation progresses.
Political Storm in Chhattisgarh
The arrest, which happened on Chaitanya’s birthday, has led to a political uproar. Former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel took to X (formerly Twitter), accusing the central government of weaponizing central agencies for political motives.
“Today is the last day of the Assembly monsoon session. The issue of Adani-linked tree-felling in Tamnar was to be raised. Instead, ED has been sent to our home,” Bhupesh Baghel said in a post by his office.
Baghel recently extended support to villagers protesting against tree clearance for a coal mining project in Tamnar, Raigarh district. The coal mine is allotted to MAHAGENCO and operated by the Adani Group under the MDO model.
Congress Protests, Assembly Boycott
In a swift political response, Congress MLAs boycotted the Assembly session to protest what they termed as “harassment of the opposition” by central agencies. Party leaders claimed the arrest was timed to suppress democratic dissent and deflect attention from key public interest issues.
Bhupesh Baghel reaffirmed his faith in the judiciary and assured full cooperation with the investigation.
Liquor Scam Under Scanner
The alleged scam revolves around a liquor distribution and sales network that reportedly benefited from bribes and illegal commissions. The ED believes this network operated with the complicity of political aides, bureaucrats, and liquor vendors, generating crores in unaccounted revenue.
So far, the ED has attached assets, summoned multiple individuals, and is examining transactions exceeding ₹1,070 crore in relation to the Baghel family and their alleged associates.
What Lies Ahead?
As the investigation deepens, political tensions in Chhattisgarh are expected to escalate, especially with state leaders raising concerns about Adani-linked environmental violations and alleged misuse of investigative agencies.
The coming days will be crucial as the ED questions Chaitanya Baghel further. Meanwhile, the Congress party is likely to intensify its protests and may escalate the issue to the national political stage.