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Former Excise Minister Kawasi Lakhma Questioned by ED in Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam: "I Was Harassed for Raising Issues in Assembly"

Kawasi Lakhma

Raipur, Chhattisgarh: Former Excise Minister Kawasi Lakhma was interrogated for over 8 hours at the Enforcement Directorate (ED) office on Friday in connection with the multi-crore Chhattisgarh liquor scam.

The case, which involves over ₹2,000 crore, has drawn significant attention, with Lakhma becoming a key figure in the investigation. Lakhma, along with his son Harish Lakhma, was questioned about his alleged involvement in the scandal.

After the lengthy session, Lakhma spoke to the media, claiming that the investigation was politically motivated and part of a larger effort to harass him for his vocal stance on tribal issues.

Nine-Hour Interrogation

Kawasi Lakhma arrived at the ED office at around 11 AM on Friday and was grilled by officials until late evening, around 8:30 PM. During the interrogation, Lakhma was asked a range of questions, and some documents were reportedly requested from the names of his wife, daughter, and elder son.

He stated that while the investigation was ongoing, no concrete evidence had been presented against him. When asked by the media whether he had been pressured to implicate others, Lakhma responded cautiously: "Whatever happened inside the office, it's not appropriate to make it public right now. I believe in law, and as a member of the Congress Party, I respect the law. I won’t discuss internal matters here."

Political Motivations and Allegations

Lakhma also hinted at political motives behind the investigation. He claimed that his consistent advocacy for the rights of tribal people, particularly in Bastar, had angered the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), leading them to target him in the scam.

"When I raised the issues of the poor and tribal people in Bastar during the legislative session, I was intentionally harassed. The BJP, upset with my stance, has framed me in this case to settle political scores. I will fight for the truth till the end of my life," he said. Lakhma further accused the BJP of targeting him because of his vocal opposition to the Salwa Judum movement and his efforts to bring attention to the plight of the poor in Bastar. "I have always fought for the rights of tribals. I will continue to fight for them, as long as I live," Lakhma asserted.

Questioning the Investigation

Lakhma also questioned the direction of the investigation, particularly in relation to the companies involved in the liquor business. "If fake liquor was being sold, why isn't the investigation targeting the manufacturers of the liquor? There are three major liquor companies involved, yet no action is being taken against them. The focus should be on these companies, not just on individuals like me," he remarked, expressing his doubts about the thoroughness of the probe. \

He clarified that no offers were made to him during the interrogation, despite his political affiliation with the Congress Party. "They know that I am a member of the Congress, so no one made me any offers," he added.

ED’s Findings and Ongoing Investigation

The ED has stated that after conducting a raid at Lakhma’s residence, they have gathered crucial evidence related to the misuse of POC (Public Office Corruption) funds. Additionally, digital devices containing sensitive records were seized. The investigation has uncovered potential connections between Lakhma and financial irregularities linked to the liquor trade.

The ED’s raid last Thursday reportedly uncovered several pieces of incriminating evidence. "We have managed to collect proof regarding cash transactions and digital records that suggest illicit activities. Further investigation is underway," the ED’s statement noted.

Political and Administrative Fallout

The Chhattisgarh liquor scam has been under investigation for nearly two years, with several politicians, officials, and their associates being implicated.  

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