On January 15, 2025, former Chhattisgarh excise minister Kawasi Lakhma was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a ₹2,161 crore liquor scam that allegedly took place between 2019 and 2023 during the Congress government’s rule. The ED claims Lakhma received ₹72 crore from the scheme, reportedly used to fund a Congress office and construct a house for his son. Lakhma has denied any wrongdoing, stating he is “illiterate” and unaware of the documents he signed. His arrest has led to accusations of political vendetta from Congress leaders amidst ongoing investigations.
Major Developments in the Case
- January 18, 2025 – ED Accuses Lakhma of Receiving ₹2 Crore Monthly
The Enforcement Directorate revealed that Kawasi Lakhma allegedly received ₹2 crore every month from the liquor scam syndicate. The agency claimed Lakhma was fully aware of the illegal operations within the excise department but failed to take action to stop them. The ED also linked Lakhma to the introduction of the FL-10A license, which allowed license holders to profit from foreign liquor sales. This scam reportedly caused over ₹2,100 crore in losses to the state exchequer, with proceeds allegedly funneled into private properties and ventures linked to Lakhma. - January 17, 2025 – Court Grants ED Custody of Lakhma
Following his arrest, Kawasi Lakhma was presented before a special court where the ED requested extended custody for further investigation. The court granted the ED six days of custody until January 21, 2025. During the hearing, Lakhma maintained his innocence, claiming he was falsely implicated in a politically motivated case. He reiterated that he was “illiterate” and unaware of any documents he had signed related to the scam. - January 16, 2025 – Lakhma’s Arrest and Initial Claims
Lakhma was arrested after being summoned for questioning about his involvement in the liquor scam. Raids on his properties in Raipur and Sukma yielded no incriminating evidence, according to Lakhma. He called his arrest politically motivated, designed to silence him ahead of the elections in Chhattisgarh. His statements highlighted the broader political implications of the case. - January 15, 2025 – ED Conducts Raids Leading to Arrest
The ED conducted multiple raids on properties owned by Lakhma and his son, as part of its investigation into the liquor scam. Earlier probes suggested significant financial irregularities in the excise department during Lakhma’s tenure as minister from 2019 to 2022. The findings indicated a well-organized scheme involving bribes and illegal liquor sales that deprived the state of substantial revenue. - January 14, 2025 – Background Investigation into Liquor Scam Begins
Investigations into the scam had been ongoing since late December 2024, following initial reports of corruption in Chhattisgarh’s excise department. FIRs filed by local authorities pointed to systemic malpractice in liquor licensing and sales. The ED’s probe eventually implicated several high-profile figures, including Lakhma.
Arrest Details and Implications
Kawasi Lakhma, aged 67, was taken into custody following extensive investigations into the sprawling liquor scam that has implicated several officials and politicians in Chhattisgarh. The ED alleges that Lakhma was a pivotal figure in a criminal syndicate that facilitated the illegal distribution of alcohol to state-run liquor shops, resulting in massive financial losses for the state treasury.
After the raids on his residences, Lakhma was summoned for questioning, where the ED linked him to the financial trail of the scam. Despite these allegations, Lakhma’s legal counsel argued that no incriminating evidence was found, describing the case as politically motivated. Lakhma’s claim—“I am illiterate; I do not know what I signed”—became a central element of his defense.
Background and Context
The liquor scam has emerged as a significant political issue in Chhattisgarh, with allegations of collusion between government officials and private entities to exploit state resources. The ED’s investigation has uncovered a network of corruption within the excise department that thrived during Lakhma’s tenure as minister.
This scandal comes at a sensitive time, closely following assembly elections in Chhattisgarh. Political analysts suggest the arrest may be part of a larger strategy by rival parties to undermine each other ahead of future elections. Congress leaders have criticized the ED’s actions, accusing the agency of being used as a tool for political vendetta against opposition figures.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
At The Logical Indian, we believe in fostering accountability and transparency within our political system. The arrest of Kawasi Lakhma underscores critical issues surrounding corruption and integrity in public office. It is vital for citizens to demand thorough investigations that uphold justice without bias or political interference.
This case also raises questions about how we can ensure our political landscape remains free from manipulation. What measures can be implemented to promote accountability among public officials? How can citizens actively engage in holding their leaders responsible? We invite our readers to share their thoughts on this pressing issue and encourage constructive dialogue on how we can work towards a more transparent and just society. What are your thoughts on how public accountability can be strengthened?
