The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted search operations at multiple locations in Chhattisgarh, including the residences of former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, a senior police officer, and an alleged close associate. The raids come amidst ongoing investigations linked to a multi-crore liquor scam, although the CBI has not disclosed the specific reason for the latest searches.
What Happened During the CBI Search?
On March 26, 2025, CBI teams visited:
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Bhupesh Baghel’s residences in Raipur and Bhilai.
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Residential premises of a senior police officer.
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Home of a close associate of the former CM, as per PTI reports.
While no official confirmation has been provided on the exact motive, the searches have stirred political reactions, especially with the AICC drafting committee meeting scheduled in Delhi.
Bhupesh Baghel’s Office Responds
In an official statement, Baghel’s office stated that the CBI’s arrival coincided with his planned departure to Delhi for the AICC Drafting Committee meeting scheduled in Ahmedabad on April 8 and 9.
Key highlights from the response:
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Baghel is a member of a 15-member Congress Drafting Committee.
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The committee’s aim is to outline future strategies and prepare the party’s response to political, economic, and social issues.
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Over 3,000 leaders are expected to attend the convention.
Summary Table of Developments
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Agency Involved | Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) |
| Action Taken | Searches at Raipur and Bhilai residences |
| Person of Interest | Former CM Bhupesh Baghel |
| Official Response | Politically motivated timing, says Baghel’s office |
| Linked Case | Alleged liquor scam |
| Previous Action | ED raided Baghel’s home on March 10 |
| Total Cash Seized (ED Raid) | ₹30 lakh |
| Related Allegation | ₹2,100 crore liquor syndicate scam |
| Party Reaction | Congress staged protests against ED and BJP |
Connection to ED Raids and Liquor Scam Case
Earlier on March 10, 2025, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted a similar search at Baghel’s Bhilai residence as part of its money laundering probe involving:
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Chaitanya Baghel, son of the former CM.
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Alleged associate Laxmi Narayan Bansal (alias Pappu Bansal).
Key ED findings:
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Cash recovery of ₹30 lakh.
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Seizure of documents related to alleged financial irregularities.
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Alleged scam period: 2019–2022, during Baghel’s tenure.
The ED claims that the liquor scam led to a loss of over ₹2,100 crore to the state exchequer while benefiting a liquor syndicate.
Political Reactions and Allegations
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Bhupesh Baghel has termed the enforcement actions as “politically motivated” and an outcome of the BJP’s “frustration.”
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On March 11, the Congress protested across Chhattisgarh by burning effigies of the BJP-led Centre and ED, condemning the raids.
FAQs
Why did the CBI raid Bhupesh Baghel’s residence?
The CBI has not officially confirmed the exact reason, but the raid is suspected to be linked to ongoing investigations in the alleged Chhattisgarh liquor scam.
What is the liquor scam case about?
The ED alleges a ₹2,100 crore scam involving a liquor syndicate that operated during Bhupesh Baghel’s tenure as CM between 2019 and 2022.
What happened in the earlier ED raid?
On March 10, 2025, the ED searched Baghel’s home and other locations, seizing ₹30 lakh in cash and documents linked to financial irregularities.
Is Bhupesh Baghel part of any political activity currently?
Yes, he is part of the AICC Drafting Committee, preparing for a major party convention in Ahmedabad on April 8–9, 2025.
Has Congress responded to these raids?
Yes. The Congress party has condemned the enforcement actions, calling them an attack on political opposition, and organized protests across the state.
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