Lagatar24 Desk
Ranchi: In the ongoing liquor scam, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has arrested Siddharth Singhania, who is believed to be the kingpin of a powerful liquor syndicate operating out of Chhattisgarh. His influence extended deeply into Jharkhand’s liquor trade and government procurement system.
Manipulated tender conditions to benefit syndicate-linked firms
Singhania reportedly played a crucial role in designing tender terms that favoured manpower supply companies associated with the liquor syndicate. These companies were later awarded contracts in Jharkhand, allegedly with help from excise department officials. The tender conditions, influenced by Singhania, included mandatory experience in government work for two years and a turnover of ₹50 crore over three years—criteria that only firms from Chhattisgarh’s syndicate could meet.
Coerced local distilleries, gained silent control
Singhania not only influenced tenders but also forced his way into Jharkhand’s country liquor production ecosystem. He demanded partnership stakes in distilleries and used state officials to harass any company that refused to comply. Of five operational distilleries during 2022–23, three were severely impacted for not yielding. One ceased production entirely, while another was forcibly shut down under regulatory pressure. Only “Shreelab” entered into a partnership with Singhania’s associates, receiving subsequent capital investment from entities like M/s Top Securities—an investment confirmed during ED’s probe.
Strategic moves before CSML’s appointment
Even before Chhattisgarh State Marketing Corporation Limited (CSML) was appointed as consultant in Jharkhand, Singhania had begun building ties with state officials. His groundwork ensured that manpower supply contracts ultimately went to companies like Sumit Facilities, Eagle, Hunter, and A to Z Infra Services—all of which later subcontracted the work back to him, consolidating Singhania’s control over the entire manpower chain.
Conclusion
The ED’s ongoing investigation reveals how Singhania systematically captured Jharkhand’s liquor trade using influence, coercion, and regulatory manipulation. His arrest marks a critical step in unraveling a syndicate that extended across multiple states and operated under the radar for years.
