The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered an FIR in an alleged ₹11.38 crore bank loan fraud following a complaint by Union Bank of India against Dhamtari Kpex Private Limited, its directors, guarantor, unidentified bank officials and other unknown persons.

The case came to light after central agencies conducted searches at a residence on Gaurav Path in Baloda Bazar from Saturday evening to Sunday evening. While the operation was initially believed to be an Enforcement Directorate (ED) raid, the FIR confirms that the action was carried out by the CBI, with the Income Tax Department also conducting proceedings in connection with the matter.

Bank Alleges Diversion of Loan Funds

According to the FIR, Union Bank of India Regional Office, Raipur, through its Deputy General Manager and Regional Head Randhir Kumar, lodged a complaint on May 7, 2026, alleging that the company misused credit facilities sanctioned by the bank, causing significant financial loss.

Investigators allege that the accused diverted loan funds instead of utilising them for the intended business purpose.

Export Credit Facility Under Scanner

CBI said the company, engaged in bauxite trading and exports, was sanctioned an Export Packing Credit (EPC) facility of ₹15 crore on April 19, 2023.

The sanctioned limits included:

• ₹5 crore Cash Credit (CC)

• ₹7.50 crore Letter of Credit (LC)

• Other export-related banking facilities

The agency alleges that the company manipulated these facilities by routing money through associated firms.

Funds Allegedly Routed Through Related Firms

According to the investigation, loan proceeds were allegedly transferred to sister concerns and associated entities, including:

• Bharat Multi Trade

• Chris Enterprises

• Radhe Krishna Enterprises

CBI claims these firms had business or family links with the company's promoters and guarantors.

Investigators further alleged that funds withdrawn from the Cash Credit account were routed through these firms and deposited into the Export Packing Credit account on the same day, creating the impression that export credit liabilities had been repaid.

Transactions Under Investigation

The FIR highlights several transactions that are under scrutiny:

• March 26, 2024: ₹91 lakh transferred from the Cash Credit account and an equivalent amount deposited into the Packing Credit account.

• March 27, 2024: Around ₹1.63 crore routed similarly before being credited back.

• March 28, 2024: Nearly ₹1.97 crore allegedly circulated through related entities and redeposited.

CBI estimates that around ₹4.51 crore was allegedly rotated through this mechanism to artificially adjust liabilities.

Loan Turned NPA

The bank stated that the borrower failed to service the loan, following which the account was declared a Non-Performing Asset (NPA) on October 12, 2024.

As of January 31, 2026, the outstanding dues reportedly stood at ₹11.38 crore.

Accused Named in FIR

The FIR names:

• Dhamtari Kpex Private Limited

• Rajlakshmi Saraf (Director)

• Abhishek Gupta

• Kushal Soni (Guarantor)

• Unidentified bank officials

• Other unknown persons

The accused have been booked under provisions relating to criminal conspiracy, cheating, criminal breach of trust, falsification of accounts, and relevant sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.

CBI to Probe Financial Trail

The investigating agency said preliminary findings indicate sufficient grounds to investigate alleged misuse of bank funds and possible criminal conspiracy.

CBI will now examine financial transactions, the role of associated companies, bank officials and other individuals linked to the sanction and utilisation of the loan.

A 19-year-old woman was allegedly murdered by her boyfriend in Chhattisgarh's Surajpur district after he reportedly suspected her of being involved in another relationship. The accused allegedly lured her to Nehru Park, attacked her with a knife, and later attempted to end his own life before being arrested by police.

The deceased has been identified as Radhika Rajwade, while the accused is Ritesh Rajwade.

Called Her to Park Before Attack

According to police, the incident took place on Sunday evening when Ritesh allegedly called Radhika to Nehru Park to meet him.

During the meeting, he allegedly stabbed her in the neck with a knife. Police said the weapon pierced through her neck. After the attack, the accused allegedly pulled out the knife and fled the spot on a motorcycle.

Despite her critical injuries, Radhika reportedly managed to run a short distance before collapsing. People present in the park rushed her to the district hospital.

Victim Named Accused Before Death

Doctors referred Radhika to the Ambikapur Medical College Hospital due to the severity of her injuries.

Police said she was unable to speak because of the neck wound. During questioning, she reportedly gestured for a pen and paper and wrote down the name of the alleged attacker.

She later succumbed to her injuries during treatment at around 10:30 pm.

Suicide Note Found at Park

During the investigation, police recovered a handwritten note allegedly left by the accused at the park, in which he reportedly accepted responsibility for the attack.

Investigators believe the murder was triggered by the accused's suspicion that the victim was involved in another relationship.

Arrested Near Railway Track

After the incident, police examined CCTV footage from the area and identified the motorcycle rider.

Officials tracked the accused to a railway track, where he was allegedly preparing to die by suicide. He was taken into custody before any further incident occurred.

Investigation Underway

Police have registered a case of murder and are questioning the accused to establish the sequence of events and the motive behind the crime.

Investigators are also examining digital evidence, CCTV footage and statements of witnesses as part of the ongoing investigation.

A sudden malaria outbreak in Chhattisgarh's Kanker district has claimed the lives of two school students within two days, while 11 children studying in government-run hostels have tested positive for the mosquito-borne disease, prompting health authorities to launch an emergency response.

The district administration and the Health Department have intensified surveillance in affected areas, with medical teams conducting door-to-door screening and setting up health camps in hostels and nearby villages.

Health Department Confirms Outbreak

Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) Dr. R.C. Thakur said the district has witnessed an unexpected spike in malaria cases over the past few days.

According to the health department, rapid testing, treatment and preventive measures are being carried out in the affected hostels. Authorities have also directed officials to closely monitor all government residential schools and hostels across the district.

Two Students Lose Their Lives

One of the victims was nine-year-old Kareena Vishwakarma from Domaharra village. She and her two sisters were admitted to the district hospital after developing high fever. Kareena died during treatment on July 25, while her sisters continue to receive medical care.

In a separate incident, nine-year-old Subhash Kumeti, a student residing at the Mardapoti hostel, also succumbed to malaria.

Officials said several students at the hostel had complained of fever and headaches. Medical screening confirmed malaria infection in four students. Subhash's condition deteriorated after he was taken home by his family, and despite being brought back to the district hospital, he died during treatment on Sunday.

Eleven Hostel Students Test Positive

Health officials said 11 students from the Iradah and Mardapoti government hostels have tested positive for malaria.

Medical teams have established camps inside the hostels, where infected students are receiving treatment while other residents are being screened to prevent further spread.

No Cases Detected Days Earlier

Assistant Commissioner of the Tribal Welfare Department Jaya Manu said all government hostels had undergone routine health screening on July 22, and no malaria cases were detected at that time.

However, infections began surfacing rapidly after July 24, indicating what officials described as a sudden outbreak.

Containment Measures Intensified

The Health Department has begun extensive surveillance in the affected villages and hostels. Teams are conducting fever screening, blood tests and distributing anti-malarial medicines.

Authorities are also carrying out mosquito-control measures, including awareness campaigns, inspections of waterlogging sites and preventive interventions in vulnerable areas.

Officials Urge Preventive Measures

Health officials have advised residents to use mosquito nets, wear full-sleeved clothing, apply mosquito repellents and ensure that stagnant water does not accumulate around homes.

People experiencing persistent fever, chills, headaches or body aches have been urged to seek immediate medical attention, as early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve recovery from malaria.

 The investigation into the alleged irregularities in the Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission (CGPSC) 2021 recruitment examination has expanded to include suspected money laundering, with the Enforcement Directorate (ED) initiating a parallel probe into financial transactions linked to the case.

Investigating agencies suspect the alleged recruitment scam may involve corruption exceeding ₹500 crore, with allegations that candidates paid huge sums to secure appointments to prestigious government posts, including Deputy Collector, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) and other administrative services.

ED Begins Money Laundering Investigation

The ED has started examining the financial trail following the ongoing probe against former CGPSC Chairman Taman Singh Sonwani.

According to the investigation, evidence has emerged suggesting alleged laundering of ₹47 lakh, while the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has reportedly uncovered evidence indicating collections of around ₹1.3 crore linked to recruitment-related transactions.

Officials are now examining whether the funds were routed through charitable and institutional channels to conceal their origin.

₹47 Lakh Allegedly Routed as CSR Donation

Investigators allege that ₹47 lakh was transferred to an organisation named Gramin Vikas Samiti in exchange for facilitating the selection of the son and daughter-in-law of a power plant director.

The agency claims that most members of the organisation were either relatives or close associates of former CGPSC Chairman Taman Singh Sonwani. His wife, Padmini Singh Sonwani, reportedly served as the chairperson of the organisation.

The probe further alleges that the money was shown as a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) donation for a college that investigators claim did not actually exist. The ED is examining these transactions under provisions related to money laundering.

₹1.3 Crore Allegedly Collected From Candidates

According to the CBI charge sheet, coaching institute operator Utkarsh Chandrakar allegedly collected nearly ₹1.3 crore from aspirants by promising access to the mains examination question paper and assured selection.

Investigators said Chandrakar has been absconding since his name surfaced during the investigation. His anticipatory bail has already been cancelled by the High Court, and the ED is now attempting to trace his whereabouts.

More Recruitment Exams Under Scanner

Investigating agencies have widened the scope of the probe beyond the CGPSC-2021 recruitment, examining alleged irregularities in more than 12 recruitment examinations conducted during Sonwani's tenure, including recruitment for Assistant Professor and other government posts.

The CGPSC-2021 examination was conducted to fill 171 vacancies. The preliminary examination was held on February 13, 2022, in which 2,565 candidates qualified. The mains examination took place between May 26 and 29, 2022, followed by interviews, after which the final selection list of 170 candidates was released on May 11, 2023.

Allegations of High-Value Bribes

Investigators allege that candidates seeking appointments to senior posts such as Deputy Collector and DSP were asked to pay between ₹75 lakh and ₹1 crore per post.

The probe has also raised allegations that relatives of former officials, political leaders and senior bureaucrats received undue advantage during the recruitment process. These allegations remain under investigation.

Twenty-Nine Named as Accused

The CBI has named 29 individuals in the case, including former CGPSC Chairman Taman Singh Sonwani, former Secretary J.K. Dhruv, former Examination Controller Aarti Vasanik, Deputy Examination Controller Lalit Ganvir, industrialist Shravan Kumar Goyal, his son Shashank Goyal, daughter-in-law Bhumika Kataria, Sonwani's son Nitesh Sonwani, relatives and several other accused, including absconding coaching operator Utkarsh Chandrakar.

Both the CBI and the ED continue to investigate the alleged recruitment scam, financial transactions and suspected money laundering linked to the case.

A family in Chhattisgarh's Balod district allegedly lost over ₹13.13 lakh after fraudsters posing as astrologers promised to cure a stage-IV cancer patient through religious rituals and spiritual practices. Police have registered a case against several accused from Uttar Pradesh and launched an investigation into the alleged fraud.

The complaint was filed by 55-year-old Premlata Chandrakar, a resident of Sirri village under Ranchirai police station limits. She alleged that the accused exploited her husband's critical illness and emotionally manipulated the family into making repeated online payments over nearly one-and-a-half years.

Television Advertisement Led to Contact

According to the complaint, Premlata came across an advertisement of Pandit Ved Prakash Tiwari's Lakshmi Narayan Jyotish Sanstha on a religious television channel while searching for treatment options for her husband, who has been diagnosed with stage-IV cancer.

After contacting the mobile number displayed in the advertisement, she was allegedly assured that special religious rituals and pujas could completely cure her husband's illness.

Initially, the accused reportedly asked her to transfer ₹30,000 through a QR code, followed by another ₹18,000 payment on November 28, 2024. Thereafter, they continued demanding money under different pretexts, claiming additional rituals were required for recovery.

Family Borrowed Money, Mortgaged Gold

Police said the complainant transferred money through multiple bank accounts, PhonePe, Google Pay and other digital payment platforms between November 2024 and May 2026.

To arrange the money, Premlata allegedly mortgaged her gold jewellery and borrowed funds from relatives and acquaintances.

According to the FIR, payments included:

• ₹2.30 lakh through her daughter Ruhi Chandrakar

• ₹7.40 lakh through acquaintance Aman Dewangan

• ₹2.05 lakh through Chhatrapal Sahu

• Additional transfers through Nehul Nirmal, Tushar Sahu and Jayant Deshmukh

The total amount transferred allegedly reached ₹13,13,673.

Fresh Calls, Promise of Refund

The complainant alleged that after no improvement in her husband's condition, she demanded the money back.

She then reportedly received another call from someone claiming to be Ved Prakash Tiwari, who allegedly stated that some people had misused his institution's name and assured her that the entire amount would be refunded within two months.

However, according to the complaint, no refund was made.

Threatened With CBI and Police Action

The woman further alleged that the accused later contacted her again and claimed that Rahul Tiwari's father had died by suicide, leaving behind a note mentioning her and Ved Prakash Tiwari.

The callers allegedly threatened that if she did not continue making payments, Uttar Pradesh Police, the CBI, and other agencies would implicate her in a murder case.

Police said the complainant transferred additional money out of fear before eventually approaching law enforcement.

Police Register Case

Based on the complaint, Balod Police have registered an FIR against Ved Prakash Tiwari, Srijan Tiwari, Rahul Tiwari and other unidentified persons.

Additional Superintendent of Police Monika Thakur said a case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) relating to cheating and common intention. Investigators are examining the financial transactions, bank accounts and digital payment records submitted by the complainant.

Police said efforts are underway to identify and arrest all those involved in the alleged fraud.

The investigation is continuing.

 The Chhattisgarh government has issued transfer and posting orders for seven Indian Forest Service (IFS) officers, assigning them new responsibilities as part of an administrative reshuffle in the state's Forest Department.

The orders include fresh postings, deputation assignments and additional charges for senior officers serving in various departments and forest institutions.

Sanjeeta Gupta Gets Minor Forest Produce Federation Charge

According to the notification, Sanjeeta Gupta has been appointed as the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) and Managing Director (In-charge) of the Chhattisgarh State Minor Forest Produce Federation.

Meanwhile, S. Venkatachalam has been deputed as the Executive Director of the Chhattisgarh State Minor Forest Produce Federation.

The government stated that the postings of the first three officers mentioned in the transfer order will come into effect from July 31, 2026.

Amarnath Prasad Given Additional Responsibility

Amarnath Prasad will continue to serve as Secretary, Forest and Climate Change Department. In addition, he has been entrusted with the additional charge of Managing Director, Chhattisgarh State Forest Development Corporation.

The government said the arrangement has been made to ensure smooth functioning of the corporation until further orders.

Officer Recalled From Deputation

The state government has also recalled Abhishek Kumar Singh from deputation and posted him as Conservator of Forests in the office of the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and Head of Forest Force.

New Appointments in Tiger Reserves

As part of the reshuffle, Gurunathan N. has been appointed as the Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and Field Director (In-charge) of the Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve.

Similarly, Pranay Mishra has been posted as the Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and Field Director (In-charge) of the Guru Ghasidas Tiger Reserve. He has also been assigned the additional charge of Project Elephant.

Forest Development Corporation Gets New Regional Head

The government has appointed Ramesh Kumar Jangde as the Regional General Manager (In-charge) of the Chhattisgarh State Forest Development Corporation.

Officials said the transfers have been made on administrative grounds to strengthen departmental functioning and improve management across forest divisions and conservation projects.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast an active spell of monsoon across Chhattisgarh, with heavy to very heavy rainfall and thunderstorms likely over several parts of the state over the next four days. The weather activity is being driven by a Depression over the northwest Bay of Bengal, which is expected to intensify into a Deep Depression before crossing the Odisha-West Bengal coast on July 27.

According to the IMD's Special Press Release issued on Sunday, light to moderate rainfall is expected at most places across Chhattisgarh on July 27, while heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning is likely at isolated locations.

Active Monsoon to Continue

The IMD said the Depression over the Bay of Bengal, along with the active monsoon trough and an east-west shear zone across central India, will keep monsoon conditions active over Chhattisgarh for at least the next four days.

Heavy rainfall is expected to continue on July 28, while isolated heavy rain and thunderstorms are likely from July 29 to August 1.

Rainfall and Temperature

During the past 24 hours, light to moderate rainfall occurred at a few places, with heavy to very heavy rain at isolated locations. Seasonal rainfall across Chhattisgarh currently remains 20% below normal, though rainfall activity is expected to improve during the coming days.

The highest maximum temperature recorded in the state was 33°C in Raipur, while the lowest minimum temperature was 22.6°C at Pendra Road.

The IMD has also forecast a 2–4°C fall in maximum temperatures over the next 24 hours, after which temperatures are likely to remain stable.

Raipur Weather

For Raipur, the weather office has forecast a generally cloudy sky with intermittent rain and thundershowers. The city's maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to hover around 29°C and 24°C, respectively.

Public Advisory

The IMD has advised residents to remain indoors during thunderstorms, avoid sheltering under trees, stay away from electric poles and metal structures, and unplug electrical appliances during lightning.

Farmers have been advised to shift harvested crops to safe storage, protect horticultural crops with anti-hail nets where possible, and monitor official weather updates before carrying out agricultural activities.

No flash flood risk has been indicated for the next 24 hours, though authorities have urged people to remain alert as rainfall intensity may increase with the advancing weather system.

 The resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following the NEET paper leak controversy has triggered sharp political reactions in Chhattisgarh, with leaders across party lines offering contrasting views on the development.

Former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel described the resignation as a victory for students and youth across the country. In a post on X, Baghel said the decision reflected the success of sustained protests demanding accountability over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination process.

Taking a swipe at the Centre, Baghel compared the Modi government to "Hiranyakashyap" from Hindu mythology and described the country's Gen-Z students as the "Narasimha avatar" that forced the government to act. He said the resignation represented a defeat for the Union government and a victory for students seeking justice.

Chhattisgarh Assembly Speaker and former Chief Minister Dr Raman Singh also backed the resignation, though from a different perspective. He said the decision was necessary to calm the nationwide agitation surrounding the examination controversy.

"The issue had become a matter of national concern. Bringing it to a conclusion was important," Raman Singh said, adding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah had already indicated that stricter laws would be introduced to curb examination-related malpractices.

However, the BJP's stand within the state government appeared divided. Chhattisgarh School Education Minister Gajendra Yadav expressed support for Dharmendra Pradhan and argued that the minister should not have resigned.

Yadav said that a large ministry functions through thousands of officials and employees, making it unfair to hold the minister directly responsible for every administrative lapse. He urged Pradhan to withdraw his resignation in the national interest, noting that the Centre had already constituted an inquiry committee and established fast-track courts to investigate the matter.

Meanwhile, celebrations broke out among student organisations in several parts of the state. In Bilaspur, students and youth groups organised a "Victory Rally," raising slogans in support of student unity and demanding the dissolution of the National Testing Agency (NTA). Protesters maintained that while the minister's resignation marked an important milestone, their larger campaign for examination reforms and institutional accountability would continue.

Congress workers in Raipur also took out a victory procession, calling the resignation a result of sustained public pressure over the alleged paper leak.

The resignation marks a significant political development, as Dharmendra Pradhan has become the first Union minister in the Narendra Modi government since 2014 to step down following sustained public protests. Earlier, in 2018, then Minister of State for External Affairs M.J. Akbar resigned amid allegations during the global #MeToo movement, though the circumstances were unrelated to government policy.

The NEET controversy has also renewed attention on India's anti-paper leak framework. In June 2024, the Centre implemented the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act to tackle examination fraud. The law makes offences such as paper leaks, organised cheating, unauthorised access to examination materials and related offences non-bailable, with punishments ranging from three to ten years' imprisonment and heavy financial penalties, depending on the nature of the offence.

Despite the new legislation, opposition parties and student organisations have continued to demand broader reforms to restore confidence in the country's examination system.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Income Tax (IT) Department have launched a joint search operation at the residences and business premises of liquor businessmen Raghavendra Saraf and Rupesh Saraf in Chhattisgarh's Baloda Bazar district, with officials scrutinising financial and property-related records.

According to sources, ED officials reached Baloda Bazar on the night of July 24 and kept the premises under surveillance before initiating searches the following morning. The operation has continued for the second consecutive day, with teams from both agencies examining documents and questioning individuals associated with the businesses.

Financial Records Under Scanner

Officials are conducting detailed searches across the premises, examining diaries, bank account records, property documents and other financial files. Family members and persons connected to the businesses are also being questioned as part of the ongoing investigation.

Authorities have not officially disclosed the exact nature of the probe or the allegations being investigated.

Prominent Business Family

The Saraf family is among the well-known business families in Baloda Bazar. The late Rajkumar Saraf had established multiple business ventures in the district. Following his death, his sons, Raghavendra Saraf and Rupesh Saraf, took over the family businesses, which reportedly include liquor trading, real estate operations and a brass manufacturing unit.

Sources indicated that investigators suspect possible financial irregularities, prompting the coordinated action by the ED and the Income Tax Department.

Search Continues for Second Day

Officials are reported to have seized several documents during the searches, which are being examined for further investigation. Based on material recovered during the ED operation, the Income Tax Department is also carrying out its own scrutiny as part of the joint exercise.

Police personnel have been deployed outside the premises to maintain security while the search operation continues.

No Official Statement Yet

Neither the Enforcement Directorate nor the Income Tax Department has issued an official statement explaining the reasons behind the searches or the scope of the investigation.

Authorities have also not confirmed whether any cash, valuables or incriminating evidence has been recovered during the operation. Further action is expected after investigators complete the examination of the seized documents and records.

With Ganesh Chaturthi set to begin on September 14, idol makers across Raipur are working round the clock to complete thousands of Ganesh idols. However, one notable trend has emerged this year—most artisans are deliberately avoiding idols based on artificial intelligence (AI)-generated designs, citing concerns over religious sensitivities and the controversy that erupted during last year's festival.

More than 15,000 small and large Ganesh idols are expected to be installed across homes, neighbourhoods and community pandals in the city during the festival.

Traditional Forms Dominate

This year's collections prominently feature traditional depictions of Lord Ganesha, including Shiva-inspired Ganesha, Lord Ram, Lord Krishna, Bal Ganesh, Balaji and Ardhanarishwar-themed idols.

Artisans say devotees continue to prefer conventional representations rooted in religious tradition rather than experimental designs.

Last Year's Dispute Influences Artisans

The decision to avoid AI-generated idol designs follows a controversy during the previous Ganesh festival in Raipur's Lakhe Nagar, where a Ganesh idol created using AI-inspired artwork drew objections from Hindu organisations.

The dispute escalated into protests and police complaints, prompting many idol makers to reassess their approach to designing religious idols.

According to artisans, the incident highlighted the need to exercise greater caution while creating idols intended for public worship.

Customers Bring AI Images

Idol maker Yashwant said customers often approach workshops with AI-generated images sourced from social media, requesting similar idols.

While acknowledging that such designs may appear visually appealing, he said religious idols must conform to established traditions and devotional sentiments.

"We avoid creating designs that could lead to controversy later. Religious faith should take precedence over experimentation," he said.

Strong Demand for Conventional Idols

Artisans reported that bookings for Shiva, Shri Ram, Shri Krishna, Bal Ganesh, Ardhanarishwar and Balaji forms have been particularly strong this year.

Workshops across the city have extended working hours, with craftsmen engaged late into the night painting, decorating and giving finishing touches to idols ahead of the festival season.

Many artisans said business has improved compared to last year as orders from Ganesh festival committees continue to increase.

Hindu Organisations Issue Advisory

Representatives of Hindu organisations have also appealed to idol makers and festival committees to avoid AI-generated depictions of Lord Ganesha.

Vishwadini Pandey, state president of the Hindu Swabhiman Organisation, said the group has requested organisers not to install AI-generated Ganesh idols similar to those that became the subject of controversy last year.

She said the organisation would oppose any depiction that it believes hurts religious sentiments.

Legal Position on Religious Sentiments

Senior advocate Virat Verma said that if someone intentionally insults a religion, deity or religious symbol, or performs an act that deliberately hurts religious sentiments, legal action may be initiated under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

He said police examine complaints on a case-by-case basis, and an FIR may be registered if a prima facie offence is established during the investigation.

A Festival with Deep Roots

Historians trace Raipur's public Ganesh festival tradition back nearly 125 years. The earliest community celebrations were organised in Purani Basti, Gudhiyari and Baniyapara, before expanding to Golbazar, Sadar Bazar, Ramsagarpara and other parts of the city.

During India's freedom movement, public Ganesh celebrations also served as platforms for social unity and nationalist mobilisation, making the festival an enduring symbol of faith, tradition and community participation.

A watchman posted at the Forest Division Office in Bijapur was found dead under suspicious circumstances during his night shift, prompting a police investigation into the incident.

The deceased has been identified as Lingam Chandru, who was on regular night duty at the Forest Division Office on Saturday night (July 25). His body was discovered near the main entrance gate of the office premises on Sunday morning.

Body Found Near Main Gate

According to preliminary information, Forest Department employees found Chandru lying near the main gate when they arrived for work in the morning. Officials said the main gate was reportedly locked from inside when the body was discovered.

The incident was immediately reported to senior Forest Department officials and the police, who reached the spot and initiated an investigation.

Cause of Death Yet to Be Determined

The sudden death has left officials and colleagues shocked, with the Forest Department expressing grief over the loss of its employee.

Police said the exact cause of death remains unclear at this stage, and no conclusions have been drawn regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Investigators are examining all possible angles as part of the inquiry.

Post-Mortem Ordered

The body has been sent for post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death.

Police officials stated that further action will depend on the findings of the autopsy report and the evidence collected during the investigation.

Authorities have urged people to avoid speculation until the medical examination and investigation are completed.

 The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has formally entered the investigation into the alleged Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission (CGPSC) recruitment scam, shifting the focus to suspected money laundering linked to the recruitment process. The agency has arrested former CGPSC chairman and retired IAS officer Taman Singh Sonwani, who was already in judicial custody in the case being investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

A special court in Raipur on Saturday granted the ED seven days of custodial remand, allowing the agency to question Sonwani until July 31. Investigators are expected to probe the alleged financial transactions, illicit proceeds and the network of individuals suspected of benefiting from the recruitment process.

ED Probes Alleged Financial Trail

Appearing for the ED, advocate Saurabh Pandey told the court that the investigation had uncovered allegations that money was collected in exchange for the selection of candidates in the CGPSC recruitment process.

According to the ED, a Rural Development Committee was allegedly used as a channel for financial transactions. The agency claimed that ₹45 lakh was transferred from Bajrang Power Limited to the committee's account through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds.

The ED further alleged that most members of the committee were either relatives or close associates of Sonwani, and that the committee was used to facilitate financial transactions linked to the recruitment process.

CBI Had Earlier Arrested Sonwani

The CBI had arrested Sonwani nearly two years ago in connection with alleged irregularities in the CGPSC recruitment process. Along with him, Shravan Kumar Goyal, director of Bajrang Power and Ispat Limited, was also arrested.

The CBI alleges that influential individuals paid money to secure the selection of their relatives for prestigious government posts, including Deputy Collector, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) and other gazetted positions.

Allegations of Favouritism

According to the CBI, large-scale irregularities occurred during Sonwani's tenure as CGPSC chairman. Investigators have alleged that relatives of senior politicians, bureaucrats and other influential individuals were favoured during the recruitment process.

The agency claims to have gathered documentary evidence indicating financial transactions connected to the alleged manipulation of selections.

Paper Leak Allegations

The CBI investigation alleges that confidential examination papers were first taken to Sonwani's residence, where copies were allegedly made before being resealed and returned for printing.

Investigators claim that leaked question papers were later passed through intermediaries to Shravan Goyal, whose son and daughter-in-law allegedly prepared using the leaked material before both were selected as Deputy Collectors.

The agency has maintained that these allegations form part of a larger conspiracy involving examination officials and private individuals.

Recruitment Process Under Scrutiny

The alleged scam relates to CGPSC recruitment conducted between 2020 and 2022. Authorities suspect that transparency in the examination and interview process was compromised to favour candidates linked to politically and administratively influential families.

The examination was conducted to fill 171 government posts. The preliminary examination was held in February 2022, followed by the mains examination in May 2022. The final selection list of 170 candidates was published in May 2023.

Investigation Continues

With the ED now examining the financial dimension of the alleged scam, investigators are expected to focus on tracing the flow of funds, identifying beneficiaries and determining whether proceeds of crime were generated through the recruitment process.

The allegations remain under investigation. The guilt or innocence of the accused will be determined through the judicial process.