Former Chhattisgarh Excise Minister Kawasi Lakhma Questioned by ED for 8 Hours

Raipur
Former Chhattisgarh Excise Minister Kawasi Lakhma was interrogated by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for nearly eight hours on Friday. Lakhma arrived at the ED office in Raipur before noon, accompanied by his son Harish and his former OSD, Jayant Dewangan. He left around 8 PM, flashing a thumbs-up gesture to reporters. Speaking to the media after the questioning, Lakhma maintained his innocence, stating, “I am a poor tribal who has always fought for tribal rights. The BJP is targeting me out of anger, but I will fight this battle to the end. As long as I live, I will continue fighting for my people.”

Ahead of the interrogation, Lakhma had addressed the media, declaring, “I am innocent and a poor man. Those who trouble me will face divine justice. Not a single rupee of unaccounted cash has been found against me.” The ED, however, claims to have evidence linking Lakhma to the Chhattisgarh liquor scam, alleging that he received commissions from illegal liquor sales. Lakhma dismissed these allegations, asserting that all documents found during raids were related to his legislative work and accusing the BJP of conspiring against him due to his consistent electoral victories.

The ED’s investigation has unearthed alleged proceeds of crime (POC) amounting to Rs 2161 crore from the liquor scam, with Lakhma reportedly receiving monthly commissions. The scam is believed to involve a syndicate led by businessmen and officials, including Anwar Dhebar and AP Tripathi, who have already been arrested. The syndicate is accused of bribing distillers, selling untaxed liquor, and manipulating market shares.

Lakhma defended his modest assets, stating, “I own only two acres of land in Jagdalpur, purchased in 2009, and have no other property.” He recounted his humble beginnings as a vendor of tora and mahua before entering politics, adding, “Despite BJP’s 15-year rule, they couldn’t win in Sukma, my constituency. This is why they are targeting me.”
Raids conducted at Lakhma’s properties in Raipur and Sukma yielded digital devices and documents, which the ED claims contain incriminating evidence. Meanwhile, one of Lakhma’s associates, Sushil Ojha, has been seen posting videos from abroad, drawing criticism amid the ongoing investigation.

The Chhattisgarh liquor scam, spanning 2019-2022, allegedly involved the sale of illegal liquor through government stores using fake holograms, causing significant revenue losses. The ED’s investigation continues, with further action against Lakhma anticipated.