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In a significant development in the Chhattisgarh liquor scam case, the Supreme Court on Friday granted bail to a former excise department official but deferred his release until April 10. The decision was made considering procedural formalities and the ongoing legal proceedings.
The accused, a former senior officer of the excise department, was arrested in connection with an alleged multi-crore liquor scam that reportedly involved irregularities in revenue collection, bribery, and money laundering. The case has been under investigation by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and other central agencies, which claim that state officials and liquor traders colluded to generate illicit profits.
A bench of Justices [Names of Judges, if available] observed that while the accused met the conditions for bail, certain legal prerequisites necessitated the postponement of his release. The court directed authorities to ensure compliance with all procedural requirements before his release.
The liquor scam, which allegedly took place during the previous government’s tenure, has been a subject of intense scrutiny. The ED has alleged that an organized syndicate within the state’s excise department manipulated the liquor trade, causing substantial losses to the exchequer. Several officials and businesspersons have been implicated, and the case has led to political controversy.
While granting bail, the Supreme Court emphasized the principle that bail should not be denied as a form of punishment. However, it acknowledged the need for procedural safeguards before the accused could be released. The court has scheduled a follow-up hearing to assess compliance with its directives.
This ruling is expected to have wider implications for other accused individuals seeking bail in the case. With multiple investigations still underway, the Chhattisgarh liquor scam remains a crucial legal and political issue.
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