New Delhi, January 16
The Enforcement Directorate arrested former Chhattisgarh excise minister and six-time Konta MLA Kawasi Lakhma in an Rs 2,161 crore liquor scam that allegedly took place between 2019 to 2023.
ED stated that Lakhma used to receive a substantial amount in cash on a monthly basis out of proceeds of crime generated from the alleged liquor scam estimated to be around Rs. 2,161 crore.
The ED's investigation into the liquor scam, which is alleged to have taken place between 2019 and 2022, uncovered that illegal commissions were generated through various illicit means. The probe showed that bribes were collected from distillers for each "case" of liquor procured by the Chhattisgarh State Marketing Corporation Limited (CSMCL), the state body responsible for the purchase and sale of liquor.
The ED also stated that bribes were paid to distillers to enable them to form a cartel with a fixed market share, and to those involved in the foreign liquor segment.
Two days ago, ED had conducted search operations at seven locations across Raipur, Dhamtari, and Sukma districts in connection with the liquor scam, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. On December 28, the ED raided the residential premises of Kawasi Lakhma, along with those of his son Harish Lakhma and other close associates.
The search led to the discovery of evidence showing that Kawasi Lakhma had used the proceeds of crime in cash during the relevant period. Multiple digital devices, believed to contain incriminating records, were also seized.
Earlier investigations revealed that the liquor syndicate, led by Anwar Dhebar, Anil Tuteja, and others, was operating in Chhattisgarh, officials further stated.
