In a significant anti-corruption move, the Jharkhand Anti-Corruption Bureau takes action against top bureaucrat over alleged liquor policy irregularities
In what marks one of the most high-profile corruption cases in Jharkhand’s recent history, senior IAS officer Vinay Kumar Choubey was arrested by the state’s Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Tuesday in connection with alleged irregularities in the state’s 2022 liquor policy.
Senior Bureaucrat Implicated in Policy Manipulation
Choubey, a 1999-batch IAS officer who has held several influential positions including Secretary to the Chief Minister and Principal Secretary of the Panchayati Raj Department, faces serious allegations related to policy manipulation and financial misconduct during his tenure as Secretary of the Excise Department.
The investigation centers around claims that Choubey allegedly collaborated with a liquor syndicate from neighboring Chhattisgarh to formulate Jharkhand’s 2022 liquor policy in a manner that benefited private interests at the expense of the state treasury.
“This case represents a significant development in our ongoing efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in governance,” said a senior ACB official who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the investigation.
#WATCH | Ranchi | Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Jharkhand, has arrested IAS Vinay Chaubey in connection with the liquor scam case pic.twitter.com/tQw5ZAIMwQ
— ANI (@ANI) May 20, 2025
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Investigation Reveals Extensive Financial Impact
According to ACB sources, the alleged policy manipulation enabled a particular syndicate to gain control over critical aspects of the state’s liquor distribution system, including supply chains and the hologram security system. These arrangements reportedly resulted in substantial financial losses to the state exchequer, estimated at approximately ₹38 crore.
The case first came to light following investigations by the Economic Offences Wing of Chhattisgarh, with subsequent involvement from both the Enforcement Directorate and Jharkhand’s ACB, highlighting the multi-state dimensions of the alleged irregularities.
Multiple Arrests and Legal Proceedings
Alongside Choubey, authorities also apprehended Gajendra Singh, who serves as Joint Commissioner of the Excise Department, in connection with the same case. Following interrogation, both officials were produced before a special court and remanded to judicial custody at Birsa Munda Central Jail in Hotwar until June 3, 2025.
The formal charges include criminal conspiracy, cheating, forgery, and various violations under sections of the Indian Penal Code related to financial misconduct and abuse of official position.
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Historic Action Against Serving IAS Officer
This arrest represents the first time in over 15 years that the Jharkhand ACB has taken such definitive action against a serving IAS officer of Choubey’s seniority. The development has attracted significant attention across political circles in the state.
Opposition parties have seized on the arrests, calling for a more comprehensive investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to examine all aspects of policy formation and implementation during the period in question.
Professional Background of the Accused
Prior to his current role, Choubey served as Managing Director of the Jharkhand State Beverages Corporation Limited and held various other administrative positions throughout his career. His arrest has sent ripples through the state’s bureaucratic circles, with many viewing it as a strong signal regarding accountability in public service.
What Happens Next
As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to examine additional documentation and potential witnesses related to the policy formation process. The case could potentially expand to include examination of other policies and decisions made during the relevant period.
Legal experts suggest that the case could establish important precedents regarding administrative accountability and the scrutiny of policy decisions that impact state finances.
The Jharkhand government has not yet issued an official statement regarding the administrative arrangements to handle Choubey’s responsibilities during his absence.
This case highlights ongoing efforts to address corruption concerns in administrative decision-making, particularly in sectors with significant revenue implications for state governments.
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