Fourth chargesheet filed in Chhattisgarh liquor scam case

RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh State Economic Offences Investigation Bureau on Monday filed a fourth chargesheet in the liquor scam case at the Special Court (Prevention of Corruption Act).

The chargesheet, approximately 1,200 pages long, was filed against arrested accused Kawasi Lakhma, according to officials. Lakhma served as the Excise Minister in the Chhattisgarh government from 2019 to 2023. Investigation, evidence, and financial analysis conclusively prove Lakhma, despite holding a responsible constitutional post, not only grossly neglected his duties but also used his ministerial powers to interfere in policy decisions, influence official postings, manipulate tender processes, and establish a parallel system of cash transactions.

He operated the entire departmental system through corruption. A well-planned scam was executed through departmental officials, associates, and contractors under his patronage. Funds acquired through these acts were used for personal and family gain, yielding significant undue profit. So far, the investigation has confirmed Lakhma received Rs 64 crore as his share from the excise scam. Documented evidence of illegal investment/expenditure of Rs 18 crore has been obtained. Including this, a total of four chargesheets have been presented in court, along with three supplementary chargesheets. Thirteen accused have been arrested in connection with the case. Investigation in the matter is ongoing.