Former Chhattisgarh IAS Officer Arrested by ED in Liquor Scandal

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has made a significant breakthrough in the investigation into an alleged liquor scam in Chhattisgarh, with the arrest of retired IAS officer Anil Tuteja. The arrest comes in connection with a money laundering case linked to the purported scam, marking a crucial development in the ongoing probe.

Anil Tuteja Detained by ED

Anil Tuteja, a former officer from the 2003 batch of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), was apprehended by the ED from the Economic Offences Wing (EOW)/Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB) office in Raipur. The arrest occurred while Tuteja and his son, Yash Tuteja, were present to provide their statements regarding the same case.

Charges Under Prevention of Money Laundering Act

Tuteja has been taken into custody under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The ED is expected to present him before a magistrate to seek remand. Tuteja, who retired from service last year, now faces legal proceedings related to the alleged financial irregularities.

Allegations of Corruption Uncovered

The ED’s actions follow revelations of extensive corruption and money laundering amounting to approximately Rs 2,000 crore, purportedly orchestrated by an alcohol syndicate led by Anwar Dhebar, the brother of Raipur Mayor Anwar Dhebar. The agency alleges that funds were unlawfully collected from liquor sales across Chhattisgarh, highlighting the scale of the scandal.

Renewed Focus on the Case

This latest development comes after the Supreme Court quashed an earlier FIR filed by the ED, prompting the agency to initiate a fresh money laundering case.