The ED officials arrived early Monday morning at Baghel’s Bhilai residence, beginning an extensive search that lasted for several hours. In the course of the operation, they found cash amounting to ₹32-33 lakh. Baghel lives in this house with his wife, three daughters, son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren.
However, in the melee that ensued, the ED protests that stones were hurled at its vehicle, posing questions on the safety of enforcement officials when they conduct high-profile operations. After the raid, Bur Blowbes said in a press conference that the cash seizure was simply a small thing. “Nothing, it is not a big thing because I have a big family; secondly, we do farming over a patch of 140 acres and many other sources of income.”
The cash seizure didn’t scare him as such: We have very primary and biggest income from our agricultural activities. As per Baghel, ‘The raids were conducted in pure violation of due process; they had no search warrant, and I was not allowed to move around or talk to anybody during the time. They didn’t let me go to Vidhan Sabha today. They stopped me from talking over the phone as well.”
Political Tiff
The former chief minister accused the BJP-led central government of using central agencies to target opposition leaders. He called the raid a political vendetta that harassed him and other members of the opposition. Baghel commented, “The ED raid at my premises is the work of the BJP’s frustration.”
Involvement of Investigation
ED’s Year Accusations against Baghel involve a wide-ranging investigation into financial flushing to wipe out financial irregularities. It has not been clear what precise allegations this probe may entail. Sources avowed money laundering was related to the liquor scams from the state. Chaitanya Baghel, the son of Baghel, is said to be under scrutiny in connection with these allegations.
Physical spots connected to him were raided, with electronic gadgets and documents seized. The raid has evoked a political stink, with congress leadership backing Baghel. They charged the BJP with the misuse of Central agencies to intimidate opposition candidates who might contest the coming elections.
On the other hand, the BJP is at pains to argue that the ED is an independent body, and so, in common parlance, it would seem that the law just takes its course.
Baghel’s Political Career and Background in Agriculture
Bhupesh Baghel had the offices of Chief Minister in his home state from 2018 to 2023, steering the regional round with an agricultural regime and rural development. Boasting 140 acres of land, Baghel cited land premises that fit the image of a strong farmer, advocated extensive support for farming communities, and tended to agriculture himself.
Implications for the Polls-Campaign
The very timing of the raid has given rise to speculation about how this is bound to affect the political landscape in Chhattisgarh. With elections round the corner, the Congress and BJP prepare for a big clash. These incidents will invariably in the coming months affect the sentiments of voters and the political campaigns.
