Continuing the legal process in Chhattisgarh’s high-profile Rs 2200 crore liquor scam, the State Economic Offences Investigation and Anti Corruption Bureau (SEOIACB) has secured four-day police remand for Vijay Bhatia, the prominent liquor businessman under investigation. Produced before the special court on Monday, Bhatia will now face intensive interrogation until June 6, with SEOIACB focusing on unraveling the layers of financial deceit and political collusion tied to his operations. SEOIACB sources revealed that although the bureau initially sought a 14-day custodial remand to pursue an exhaustive probe, the special court approved only a four-day period.

 

“We respect the court’s decision and will utilise every hour to extract critical information,” an official stated. Bhatia was arrested on Sunday in Delhi and swiftly flown to Raipur under heavy security cover, following coordinated search and seizure operations that targeted his Nehru Nagar East residence, a major furniture showroom, his Hathkhoj Industrial Area factory, his father’s house, and his brother-in-law’s residence. SEOIACB officials confirmed they recovered key financial papers, investment records, and multiple electronic devices, now undergoing forensic analysis. Previously, Bhatia had remained out of reach during past Enforcement Directorate (ED), Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB), and SEOIACB actions, with his properties facing three separate raids over the past year. His capture marks a major step forward for investigators seeking to establish links between corporate operators, political figures, and illicit liquor proceeds.

 

According to SEOIACB sources, the interrogation will focus on Bhatia’s direct role in managing illicit liquor operations, his financial dealings, and the network of associates and facilitators involved. Investigators will specifically probe the use of fake documents, hidden bank accounts, and concealed assets, with the objective of unravelling the complex financial architecture underpinning the scam. Officials indicated that further summons are being prepared for individuals identified during recent raids, aiming to broaden the investigative neand secure additional evidence.