'Proof' found, says ED, calls ex-mantri over Chhattisgarh 'scam'

Raipur: Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned Kawasi Lakhma, Chhattisgarh's former Congress minister to its office in Raipur on January 3. The agency said searches on December 28 last year yielded evidence of former excise minister's involvement in liquor scam and his receipt of commissions from illegal liquor sales.

Evidence on use of cash by Lakhma was found "in relation to the points of concern" during the period of the liquor scam. Several digital devices seized during the operation are believed to contain incriminating records, ED said.

The searches were conducted at seven locations in Raipur, Dhamtari and Sukma as part of the probe.

Lakhma told reporters, "ED asked for documents that were in the village. I requested time to bring them. I will provide all the documents they require. Everyone should respect the law, and I will comply. I will speak the truth. I am a truthful man. I will not comment on political or media questions right now. I will continue to respect the rules and laws."