Bhopal, October 9 (Daily Kiran) : Congress’s Madhya Pradesh president, Jitu Patwari, has urged Chief Minister Mohan Yadav to initiate an independent investigation by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) into a purported liquor scam linked to nightclubs, restaurants, and the real estate sector. In a letter addressed to the Chief Minister, Patwari highlighted alarming revelations made by Mohit Gogia, a key suspect involved in the alleged ₹1,000 crore scandal.
During questioning, Gogia implicated former IAS officer C.P. Raichura and the then assistant excise commissioner T.P. Raichura, claiming they accepted ₹1 crore to facilitate tenders and liquor shop licenses in 2024-25.
Patwari emphasized that persistent questions about the transparency of Madhya Pradesh’s excise system and the government’s integrity are troubling. While the veracity of the allegations is under investigation, he criticized the government’s silence and mere formal responses as inadequate. He posed a critical question: Are government contracts being awarded fairly, or are they influenced by power dynamics and alleged transactions?
Furthermore, Gogia allegedly named several businessmen in Bhopal with connections to senior bureaucrats and politicians, underscoring the necessity for a thorough investigation. Patwari has called for the inquiry to be overseen by a retired High Court judge to ensure impartiality. He demanded a fair examination of the tender process for liquor licenses, bank fixed deposits, and any questionable financial transactions.
Additionally, Patwari requested a probe into bank accounts and financial records related to alleged payments of ₹50-50 lakh and other suspicious financial dealings. He stressed the importance of preserving evidence during the investigation and reviewing the roles of officials who might compromise the inquiry. The timeline for the investigation and updates on actions taken should be made public, with strict legal action against those found guilty.
He concluded by asserting that the government’s credibility regarding serious corruption allegations cannot be established through mere statements but must come from conducting a fair investigation. The people of Madhya Pradesh deserve answers, not just assurances.
Leave a Comment