Deputy CM Arun Sao’s Statement on ED Investigation: A Counter to Congress and an Appeal for Cooperation
Raipur >>Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao strongly reacted to the statements made by Congress MLA and former minister Kawasi Lakhma regarding the ED (Enforcement Directorate) investigation. Speaking to reporters at his residence in Raipur, Sao emphasized that ED is a central investigative agency, and everyone must cooperate with its inquiries.
Cooperate with Investigative Agencies, Don’t Distract Them
The Deputy CM stated, Whether someone is small or big, the ED conducts its investigations impartially. If you have been called for questioning, provide all necessary information to the ED. If you are innocent, present evidence to prove it before the agency. Emotional statements will not alter the facts. Investigative agencies work based on evidence, and everyone must cooperate in this process.
Targeting Congress on the Liquor Scam
Sao launched a scathing attack on the Congress government, saying, Every citizen of Chhattisgarh knows about the liquor scam that took place in the state. During the Congress regime, dual counters were set up in liquor shops, fake holograms were used, and an organized criminal syndicate executed the scam. This is not a new issue—it surfaced during the Congress government’s tenure, and the ED investigation began during that period.
He dismissed Congress’s allegations as baseless, adding, If Congress has any facts, they should bring them forward. It is wrong to obstruct the investigation process.
Faith in Central Agencies
The Deputy CM asserted that central agencies carry out their work impartially. Investigation is a continuous process, and everyone should trust agencies like the ED. If someone feels a false case has been filed against them, they should present evidence of their innocence to the ED. There is no need to fear or distract from the process.
Counter to Bhupesh Baghel’s Statements
Responding to Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel’s allegations, Sao said, The CM’s statements are mere political rhetoric. He has never acknowledged the reality of this scam, even though the public is aware that the liquor scam began under his administration. The use of fake holograms and the loss of revenue due to illegal practices are facts known to everyone.
Emphasis on Transparency in ED Investigation
Arun Sao highlighted the transparency in the ED’s investigative process, stating, Agencies like the ED operate based on evidence without any bias. Hence, it is everyone’s responsibility to cooperate with the investigation. If someone is not guilty, they have nothing to fear.
Accusing Congress of Political Drama
Sao accused Congress of trying to politicize the investigation. Congress is resorting to emotional rhetoric and accusations to shield its leaders. However, this will not impact the investigation process. He added that the Congress government fostered large-scale corruption during its tenure and is now turning the investigation into a political issue as agencies become active.
Facts About the Liquor Scam and Public Awareness
The Deputy CM assured the public that all facts related to the liquor scam have been made available to investigative agencies. The people of the state are well aware of the reality of this matter. Our government operates on principles of transparency and accountability. If someone is found guilty, they will face consequences.
Appeal for Fair Investigation
Sao urged everyone to cooperate with the investigation process. “We must all have faith in the ED’s impartiality and transparency. The investigation aims to uncover the truth, which can only happen if individuals cooperate fully with investigative agencies.
In his statement, Deputy CM Arun Sao made it clear that agencies like the ED operate based on facts. He accused Congress of giving a political twist to the investigation while urging everyone to cooperate with the ED’s process. If you are innocent, the truth will come out on its own. Instead of distracting or fearing the process, we should help move the investigation forward, he said.
This statement highlights the Chhattisgarh government’s seriousness about the investigation process and its commitment to bringing culprits to justice.
