ed-arrests-ex-chhattisgarh-cm-s-son-in-liquor-scam-case

The Enforcement Directorate on Friday arrested Chaitanya Baghel, son of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, in connection with the state’s alleged multi-crore liquor scam, marking a dramatic escalation in the ongoing money laundering investigation.

 

The arrest followed early-morning raids at the Baghel residence in Bhilai, located in Durg district, and came hours after the agency reportedly gathered fresh leads linked to the case. A sizeable contingent of security personnel was deployed at the site as ED officials carried out search operations.

 

#WATCH | Former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel's son, Chaitnya Baghel (in yellow t-shirt), arrested by Enforcement Directorate, in connection with the ongoing investigation into alleged multi-crore liquor scam in the state, say officials.

Visuals from Durg,… pic.twitter.com/bRPTxqfu0b

— ANI (@ANI) July 18, 2025

 

The federal probe agency is pursuing the case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Sources in the enforcement agency said Friday’s action was specifically targeted at Chaitanya Baghel, who is under the scanner for alleged financial irregularities tied to the scam.

 

The Baghel home, jointly occupied by the former chief minister and his son, was searched as part of the continuing probe. Officials remained tight-lipped about the specific findings, but hinted that incriminating evidence had recently emerged, prompting fresh action.

 

Also read: CBI lists Bhupesh Baghel among 21 accused in betting case

 

Chaitanya Baghel had earlier faced similar enforcement action on March 10 when ED officials raided several premises linked to him.

 

Supporters of the Congress party began to gather outside the residence during the course of the raid. A visible police deployment sought to maintain order and restrict movement in the area.

 

The ED has alleged large-scale money laundering and kickbacks in the state’s liquor procurement and distribution system, a case that has already seen several arrests and seizures in recent months.

 

Bhupesh Baghel, who served as Chhattisgarh’s chief minister until December 2023, has so far not been named in the case, though his proximity to individuals under investigation has kept the political spotlight firmly on him.

 

Further developments are awaited as the agency is expected to present Chaitanya Baghel before a special PMLA court in Raipur.