The Enforcement Directorate (ED) in Raipur has made a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the Chhattisgarh liquor scam. Anil Tuteja, a former IAS officer, was arrested on 21.04.2024 under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. This arrest comes as a development in the ongoing probe into the alleged money laundering activities related to the liquor scam in the state.
The investigation revealed that Tuteja was the mastermind behind the liquor syndicate operating in Chhattisgarh. Evidence collected indicates his direct involvement in managing the state administration to facilitate the operations of the syndicate. He was found to be closely associated with Anwar Dhebar, another accused in the case.
Despite not holding an official position in the Excise Department, Tuteja was actively involved in its operations. Digital evidence uncovered during the investigation showed transactions amounting to Rs. 14.41 Crore linked to Tuteja. Additionally, his role in the appointment of Arun Pati Tripathi as the Managing Director of Chhattisgarh State Marketing Corporation Limited, another co-accused in the liquor scam, has also been established.
The investigation focuses on the period between 2019 to 2022, during which corruption occurred through various means. These include bribery collected from distillers, the sale of unaccounted country liquor, commissions from cartel formation, and earnings from foreign liquor segment licenses.
Anil Tuteja’s complicit actions led to significant losses for the state exchequer while benefiting the members of the Liquor Syndicate with illegal proceeds amounting to over Rs. 2100 Crore. Tuteja himself received a substantial share of this illegal wealth.
Following his arrest, Anil Tuteja was produced before the Hon’ble Special Court (PMLA), Raipur, where 5 days of ED custody was granted. The investigation by the Enforcement Directorate continues as efforts are made to uncover the full extent of the scam and bring those responsible to justice.
