Madhya Pradesh Deputy CM removes OSD amid liquor contract bribery allegations

Madhya Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Jagdish Devda has removed his Officer on Special Duty (OSD), Deepam Raichura, from his position following allegations of irregularities and bribery involving liquor contracts for the 2024-25 period. Devda has ordered an immediate departmental inquiry to ensure an impartial investigation.

The allegations surfaced during an investigation into a reported Rs 1,000 crore fraud. Investigative agencies reportedly arrested Mohit Gogia, who allegedly named Raichura during questioning, claiming that Rs 1 crore was paid to an aide of the officer in connection with liquor shop contracts.

Devda clarified that during the period the alleged irregularities occurred, Raichura was serving as an Assistant Excise Officer in Bhopal and was not yet serving as his OSD. The situation has sparked political tension, with the Congress party demanding accountability from the state government and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).