Chhattisgarh Liquor ‘Scam’: HC Grants Bail to Ex-CM Baghel’s Son Chaitanya
📅 January 3, 2026
✍️ Editor: Sudhir Choudhary, The Vagabond News
High Court Cites Investigation Progress, Bail Conditions Imposed
The Chhattisgarh High Court on Friday granted bail to Chaitanya Baghel, son of former Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel, in connection with the alleged Chhattisgarh liquor ‘scam’. The court’s decision came after considering submissions on the stage of investigation and the period of custody already undergone by the accused.
Chaitanya Baghel was arrested earlier in the case following investigations by central agencies into alleged irregularities in the state’s liquor procurement and distribution system. The prosecution has alleged that the scam caused significant losses to the state exchequer and generated proceeds of crime through illegal commissions.
Court’s Observations and Bail Terms
Granting bail, the High Court imposed strict conditions, including cooperation with the investigation, non-interference with witnesses, and restrictions on travel without prior court permission. The court clarified that the relief was limited to bail and did not amount to a comment on the merits of the case.
Legal observers said the order reflects the judiciary’s consistent position that prolonged incarceration during investigation should be avoided when custodial interrogation is no longer required.
Background of the Liquor Case
The alleged liquor ‘scam’ pertains to accusations that a cartel manipulated liquor supply contracts and commissions during the previous Congress-led government in Chhattisgarh. Investigators claim that illicit proceeds were generated through inflated margins and unauthorised collections, with money allegedly routed through intermediaries.
Both the Enforcement Directorate and the state’s anti-corruption machinery have been probing different aspects of the case, which has emerged as a major political flashpoint in the state.
Political Reactions
The Congress party has maintained that the case is politically motivated, alleging misuse of central agencies to target opposition leaders and their families. Supporters of Bhupesh Baghel welcomed the bail order, describing it as vindication of their claims.
The ruling BJP, however, reiterated that the investigation is evidence-based and being conducted under due process of law, asserting that bail does not amount to exoneration.
What Lies Ahead
With bail granted, Chaitanya Baghel will remain under judicial scrutiny as the investigation continues. The High Court is expected to hear further petitions related to the case in the coming weeks, while agencies continue to build their prosecution.
The development adds another chapter to the high-profile liquor case, which continues to shape political discourse in Chhattisgarh.
Source: Hindustan Times
Tags: Chhattisgarh, Liquor Scam, Chaitanya Baghel, Bhupesh Baghel, Chhattisgarh High Court, Enforcement Directorate
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