Bhupesh Baghel Liquor Scam: ED Arrests Son Amid Bhilai Raids

Bhupesh Baghel Liquor Scam: ED Raids, Arrests, and Political Firestorm

In a dramatic escalation of the Chhattisgarh liquor scam investigation, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Chaitanya Baghel, son of former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, following early morning raids at their Bhilai residence. The arrest, which coincided with Chaitanya’s birthday and the final day of the state Assembly’s monsoon session, has ignited a political storm across India.

Background of the Liquor Scam Case

The alleged scam dates back to the years 2019 to 2022, during the tenure of the Bhupesh Baghel-led Congress government in Chhattisgarh. According to the Enforcement Directorate, a parallel liquor distribution system was operated that bypassed official channels and duties. This illicit network reportedly caused a staggering loss of ₹2,100 crore to the state exchequer. The proceeds from this operation were allegedly distributed among political executives and members of a well-organized syndicate.

ED Raids and Arrests: What Happened Today?

On July 18, 2025, ED officials arrived at Bhilai Niwas around 6:30 AM, accompanied by CRPF personnel. The raid targeted Chaitanya Baghel, who is suspected to be a key recipient of illicit funds linked to the liquor scam. Following the search, Chaitanya was arrested under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Visuals from the scene showed ED officials escorting Chaitanya in a yellow t-shirt, which quickly went viral and triggered protests from Congress supporters across the region.

Political Reactions and Allegations

Bhupesh Baghel responded strongly to the arrest, accusing the BJP-led central government of misusing investigative agencies to suppress opposition voices. In a public statement, he alleged that the ED raid was politically motivated and strategically timed to disrupt his scheduled Assembly speech. The fact that the raid occurred on Chaitanya’s birthday and the final day of the Assembly session has raised serious questions and fueled speculation about the intent behind the timing.

Why This Is Trending Right Now

Real-Time Momentum

Google Trends data shows a sharp spike in searches for terms like “Bhupesh Baghel,” “liquor scam,” and “ED raid Bhilai” over the past 12 hours. Major national news channels have been running continuous coverage, with live updates and expert panels dissecting the implications of the arrest. The incident has become a focal point in the ongoing debate surrounding the use of central agencies and the balance between accountability and political vendetta.

Political Context

The timing of the raid is particularly significant. It coincides with Bhupesh Baghel’s planned Assembly speech on environmental concerns in Tamnar, an area linked to a major coal mining project. Congress leaders argue that the ED action was deliberately timed to divert attention from this issue and to silence dissenting voices within the Assembly.

Key Figures in the Investigation

Several individuals have emerged as central figures in the Chhattisgarh liquor scam investigation. Chaitanya Baghel, son of Bhupesh Baghel, has now been arrested for allegedly receiving proceeds from the scam and failing to cooperate with ED officials. Kawasi Lakhma, the former Excise Minister, was arrested earlier in January 2025. Anwar Dhebar, brother of the Raipur Mayor, is also under arrest. Former IAS officer Anil Tuteja and ITS officer Arunpati Tripathi remain under investigation, with ED continuing to probe their roles in the alleged parallel liquor distribution network.

FAQ Section

Q1: What is the Chhattisgarh liquor scam?

It is a multi-crore scam involving illegal liquor distribution and money laundering, allegedly causing a ₹2,100 crore loss to the state exchequer.

Q2: Why was Chaitanya Baghel arrested?

He was arrested under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act for allegedly receiving illicit funds and failing to cooperate during ED searches.

Q3: Is Bhupesh Baghel directly implicated?

While he has not been formally charged, the ED claims that the scam operated under directives from top political executives during his tenure.

Q4: Why is this politically sensitive?

The raid coincided with the Assembly session and Baghel’s planned speech on deforestation linked to industrial projects, leading to allegations of political targeting.

Q5: What happens next?

The ED is expected to continue its investigation, which may result in further arrests and asset seizures. The political fallout is likely to intensify in the coming days.

Conclusion: A Political Storm Brewing in Chhattisgarh

The arrest of Chaitanya Baghel marks a pivotal moment in the Chhattisgarh liquor scam probe. With over ₹2,100 crore allegedly siphoned off, the ED’s actions have reignited national debates on corruption, political vendetta, and the role of investigative agencies in democratic governance. As the investigation unfolds, this case is poised to remain at the center of public discourse and political maneuvering for weeks to come.