Senior Congress leader and former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Monday responded to the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) raid at his residence, revealing that the agency found Rs 32-33 lakh in cash. Baghel, however, downplayed the significance of the cash discovery, citing his large family and agricultural ventures as explanations for the money.
In a statement, Baghel emphasized, “It’s not a big thing. I live with my wife, three daughters, a son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren. We also engage in farming on 140 acres of land, and we have other sources of income. We will provide full details of the funds.” The Congress leader further claimed that the ED had not uncovered anything substantial, except for documents related to cases involving BJP leaders.
Baghel alleged that the raid was politically motivated and a response to his appointment as Congress’s in-charge for Punjab. “The BJP is frustrated with my new role and is trying to discourage me through these raids,” he said. His comments point to ongoing political tensions between the ruling BJP and the Congress party.
The raid follows a series of similar actions against political leaders across the country, fueling accusations of misuse of investigative agencies for political purposes. While the ED’s findings are still under scrutiny, Baghel’s defiant stance highlights the growing politicization of law enforcement in India.
Baghel’s comments resonate with other opposition leaders, who have accused the current government of using institutions like the ED to target political opponents. As investigations continue, the raid on Baghel’s residence adds to the list of high-profile actions that have raised concerns about political fairness in the country.
