New Delhi, May 18: The Supreme Court has granted bail to retired IAS officer Anil Tuteja, who is implicated in the Chhattisgarh liquor scam. The decision was made on Monday during a hearing where the court noted that Tuteja was arrested on April 21, 2024, and has been in judicial custody since then. Other co-accused in the case have already been released on bail.
Chief Justice N.V. Ramana’s bench remarked that approximately 85 witnesses still need to be examined, indicating that the trial could take a considerable amount of time to conclude. The court acknowledged the seriousness of the charges but emphasized that the truth would only be determined during the trial.
While granting bail, the Supreme Court imposed certain conditions. Tuteja is required to remain outside the state after his release and is prohibited from contacting any serving government officials. Additionally, he must not attempt to influence any witnesses.
According to the Enforcement Directorate (ED), the scam occurred between 2019 and 2022, during the Congress government in the state. The ED estimates that the illegal operations generated approximately ₹3,000 crore, causing significant losses to the state treasury. The investigation revealed an organized syndicate involving bureaucrats, political leaders, and private businessmen, who profited illegally by undermining the liquor policy.
The total amount of money acquired through this scam is estimated to be around ₹2,883 crore, as per the charges filed by the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) and Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB).
So far, the ED has arrested nine individuals under Section 19 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), including a retired IAS officer, the then Managing Director of Chhattisgarh State Marketing Corporation Limited (CSMCL), the former Excise Commissioner, the then Excise Minister, the son of the former Chief Minister, and a deputy secretary to the Chief Minister.
My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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