In a recent development, the Supreme Court has extended the interim bail of Saumya Chaurasia, former deputy secretary to ex-Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel. Chaurasia faces charges in a prominent money laundering case connected to an alleged coal-levy scam. The extension came during a hearing on Thursday, presided over by Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan.
The top court’s decision follows its September 25 order where it noted Chaurasia’s prolonged custody of over 21 months without charge framing. The case was brought back to attention as the bench sought updates on the current status of the trial, which, as stated by Senior Advocate Siddhartha Dave representing Chaurasia, has yet to commence.
“The interim bail to continue,” declared the bench, scheduling the next hearing for the last week of January. The Supreme Court also upheld a previous directive preventing Chaurasia’s reinstatement in her civil service role, mandating her suspension until further orders.
During the proceedings, Additional Solicitor General S V Raju, appearing for the Enforcement Directorate (ED), argued against the bail. He emphasized Chaurasia’s influential position and potential to jeopardize the ongoing trial if released.
The allegations against Chaurasia stem from a broader investigation by the ED into what it describes as a “grand conspiracy” in Chhattisgarh. According to the agency, this scheme involved extorting Rs 25 per ton of transported coal, accumulating to Rs 540 crore over two years. The inquiry began following a complaint from the income-tax department, painting a picture of widespread collusion involving bureaucrats, businessmen, politicians, and middlemen in the scam.
