Raipur
The Special Court of Raipur on Tuesday ordered judicial custody for former minister Kawasi Lakhma until February 4, following his involvement in the Chhattisgarh liquor scam case. During the proceedings, the ED reported Lakhma’s lack of cooperation in their investigation.
According to the ED, Lakhma, who currently serves as an MLA, held a significant position in the syndicate and directed its operations. The syndicate received assistance through his involvement. His influence extended to modifying the liquor policy, resulting in the implementation of FL-10 licences in Chhattisgarh. Despite being cognisant of the irregularities within the Excise Department, the ED states that Lakhma took no corrective actions.
The ED had previously held Lakhma in custody until January 21 regarding the liquor scam investigation. The ED’s legal representative, Saurabh Pandey, disclosed that the scam operated for three years, during which Lakhma received Rs 2 crore monthly. The total sum of Rs 72 crore over 36 months was utilised for constructing his son Harish Kawasi’s residence and the Congress Bhavan Sukma.
The ED further revealed that the scam resulted in substantial losses to the government treasury in Chhattisgarh, with the liquor syndicate members illegally accumulating over Rs 2,100 crore.
