Chhattisgarh's Ex-CM Bhupesh Baghel's Son Arrested in Liquor Scam Investigation

Arrest of Chaitanya Baghel

Chaitanya Baghel, the son of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, has been apprehended by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) as part of an ongoing investigation into a multi-crore liquor scam in the state, according to officials. This arrest marks a significant development in the ED's probe, which targets a network of officials and associates allegedly involved in a major corruption scheme linked to the liquor trade during the previous Congress administration.

Bhupesh Baghel's Response

On Friday, amidst the ED's raid at his residence, Bhupesh Baghel criticized the Modi government for allegedly targeting opposition leaders. The federal agency conducted another search at Baghel's home in Bhilai, Durg district, related to the money laundering investigation concerning the alleged liquor scam involving his son. Baghel stated that the ED had previously visited his home and discovered ₹33 lakh. He expressed his willingness to cooperate fully, emphasizing his faith in democracy and the judiciary, while accusing the BJP of misusing the agency.

Accusations Against the Modi Government

Baghel launched a sharp attack on the Modi administration, claiming that a case linked to Adani had emerged, suggesting that the Prime Minister and Home Minister Amit Shah sent the ED to his residence to appease Adani. He asserted, "We will not be intimidated. Bhupesh Baghel will neither break nor bend. We will not yield to them. They are targeting all opposition leaders in the country." Earlier, Baghel confirmed the raids on social media, noting that the ED had visited his home on the last day of the assembly session when the issue of tree felling for the Adani group's coal mining project in Tamnar, Raigarh district, was to be discussed.

Visual Evidence

#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