# Chhattisgarh hands over BSP scrap theft probe to CBI

2026-09-29T11:36:40+00:00 | Governance | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 2 independent outlets

The Chhattisgarh government has given consent to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe the alleged theft of iron scrap from Bhilai Steel Plant (BSP). A notification was issued on September 25 under the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, allowing the CBI to investigate the case registered in May at Purani Bhilai police station. Police have arrested 21 people so far, including BSP officials and a BJP functionary. The racket allegedly involved using vehicles authorised to carry flue dust to smuggle iron scrap out of the plant. Around 250 tonnes of scrap worth Rs 90 lakh was seized from a trader's premises, the total value of recovered material, vehicles and machinery is estimated at Rs 3.22 crore. The investigation also found alleged manipulation of the Vehicle Tracking System and financial transactions linked to the case. The CBI will now examine the evidence, including electronic records and bank accounts.

## Indian Opinion Analysis

Hindustan Times reported the probe transfer as a procedural step, detailing the police case and technical evidence. Deccan Herald framed it as a political victory, leading with BJP MLA Rikesh Sen crediting Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the state leadership. The MLA's claim that the theft had gone on for 40 years goes beyond the police case timeline. Both outlets agree the case involves 21 arrests, including a BJP functionary, but Deccan Herald foregrounds political credit while Hindustan Times omits it. The investigation will test whether the CBI's findings match the political narrative or the technical trail.

## Coverage

- hindustantimes.com (neutral report) <https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/cbi-to-probe-bsp-scrap-theft-racket-in-chhattisgarh-101790672785651.html>
  Leads with government notification, details police investigation and evidence without attribution to political figures.
- deccanherald.com (pro government) <https://www.deccanherald.com/india/chhattisgarh/chhattisgarh-govt-approves-cbi-probe-into-alleged-bhilai-steel-plant-scrap-theft-4163730>
  Leads with BJP MLA crediting Amit Shah and state leaders, frames CBI probe as action against 40-year loot.

Tags: Amit Shah, Bhilai Steel Plant, CBI, Chhattisgarh, Rikesh Sen
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