Ex-Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel’s son Chaitanya arrested by ED in liquor ‘scam’ case
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Chaitanya Baghel, son of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, on July 18, 2025. This marks a turning point in the ongoing investigation into a massive liquor scam. Officials claim the scam involved illicit gains from changes made to the state’s liquor policy between 2019 and 2022.
The ED alleges that Chaitanya received large sums through real estate firms linked to him. These funds likely came from illegal commissions related to the state’s liquor contracts.
Understanding the Liquor Scam
The ED began its investigation in 2022. Officials believe the previous government tweaked excise rules to benefit a network of private contractors and liquor vendors. These changes allegedly led to inflated prices and fake invoices.
According to the agency, several bureaucrats and businessmen worked together to divert public money. The scam, valued at over ₹2,100 crore, allegedly used shell companies and fake firms to hide illegal transactions.
A Birthday Arrest: Chaitanya Taken Into Custody
The ED arrested Chaitanya Baghel during a raid on his family’s home in Bhilai. This was the second search of the house in six months. The arrest coincided with Chaitanya’s birthday, adding political tension to the development.
Officials say Chaitanya failed to explain the money flowing into companies he was connected with. These companies, allegedly fronts for laundering, showed sudden and unexplained growth.
After the arrest, the ED took him to court. The court granted five days of custodial remand for further questioning.
Congress Reacts: ‘Political Vendetta’
The arrest triggered an angry response from the Congress party. Lawmakers boycotted the final day of the state assembly’s monsoon session. Former CM Bhupesh Baghel accused the central government of targeting his family for political reasons.
“This is a gift from the Centre on my son’s birthday,” he said. “They are trying to silence us because we speak up.”
Congress leaders claimed the ED was acting under pressure from the ruling BJP. They accused the agency of carrying out raids without strong evidence.
BJP Defends the Action
In contrast, the BJP stood by the ED’s move. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said the law would take its course. “No one is above the law,” he stated. “If public money was misused, those responsible must face justice.”
BJP leaders also reminded the public that the ED had already frozen assets worth over ₹200 crore during earlier raids. They said the agency had traced the money trail to various shell companies.
The Evidence So Far
ED officials say they have strong proof against Chaitanya. Investigators found suspicious transactions, real estate deals, and digital messages that point to money laundering. Documents show a network of fake firms created to hide illegal profits.
Bank statements reportedly show large transfers to companies linked to Chaitanya. Many of these transfers matched dates when liquor tenders were finalized. ED officers believe these were bribes disguised as business deals.
What Happens Next?
With Chaitanya in custody, the ED will continue to question him. Officials hope to identify others involved in the scam. They may soon issue summons to more political figures and businessmen.
The case could have wide-reaching effects. If proven guilty, the accused may face long jail terms and permanent seizure of their assets.
This case also highlights a larger trend — the growing use of central agencies to investigate state-level corruption. Whether the ED’s findings will hold up in court remains to be seen.
A Legal and Political Battle Ahead
The arrest has deepened the divide between the BJP and Congress in Chhattisgarh. With state elections not far away, both sides are using the case to score political points.
The BJP wants to show it is cleaning up corruption. The Congress, meanwhile, argues that it is being unfairly targeted.
Regardless of the politics, the people of Chhattisgarh are watching closely. They want answers. They want accountability. And above all, they want justice.
Conclusion:
The arrest of Chaitanya Baghel is more than just a legal step — it’s a moment that could shape Chhattisgarh’s political future. As investigations continue, the coming weeks will reveal whether this is a case of true justice or just another political showdown.
