ED Takes Major Action in Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam, Retired IAS Officer Niranjan Das Arrested

Raipur: In a significant crackdown on the Chhattisgarh liquor scam, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested retired IAS officer Niranjan Das. The arrest, conducted by the ED’s Raipur zonal office, was made under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. Das was produced before the Special Court in Raipur, which remanded him to custody.

The investigation was initiated based on an FIR filed by the Anti-Corruption Bureau/Economic Offenses Wing, Raipur. Niranjan Das faces charges under multiple sections of the IPC, 1860, and the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.

Massive Financial Loss to State Exposed
Police investigations have revealed that the liquor scam caused significant financial losses to the state, with criminal proceeds exceeding ₹2,500 crore. Beneficiaries involved in the scam exploited state resources for illegal gains.

Active Role of Niranjan Das
ED’s inquiry uncovered that Niranjan Das was an active participant in the liquor syndicate, allegedly earning around ₹18 crore. Digital records, seized documents, and witness testimonies confirmed his involvement. It was also found that Das was entrusted with additional responsibilities as Excise Commissioner and in the Excise Department primarily to facilitate the scam.

Facilitating the Syndicate for Monetary Gain
Investigators revealed that Das violated official duties by allowing the liquor syndicate to operate unhindered in exchange for monthly payments of ₹50 lakh. He reportedly directed subordinates to increase illegal liquor sales, facilitating large-scale loot of state resources.

High-Profile Arrests Already Made
Several prominent individuals have already been arrested in connection with this scam, including former IAS officer Anil Tuteja, Arvind Singh, Trilok Singh Dhillon, Anwar Dheber, and ITS officer Arun Pati Tripathi. Additionally, former minister and MLA Kawasi Lakhma, ex-CM’s son Chaitanya Baghel, and Soumya Chaurasia have also been taken into ED custody. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities tracking further financial transactions and identifying additional beneficiaries of the scam.