Bilaspur : Narayan Sahu, driver of businessman Suryakant Tiwari, accused in Chhattisgarh's famous coal levy scam, has not got any relief from the High Court.

The court rejected his bail plea, stating that he was not just a driver but an active member of the entire extortion network. The court also acknowledged that Suryakant Tiwari had purchased properties in his name.

The EOW has reportedly been searching for Narayan Sahu for nearly two years. He was arrested about two months ago. According to investigating agencies, he played a key role in the collection and transfer of funds related to the coal levy.

After his arrest, Narayan Sahu first filed a bail petition in the EOW Special Court, which was rejected. He then appealed to the High Court, claiming that he was merely a driver and that there was no concrete evidence against him. He also alleged that he was pressured into making a statement.

The state government, opposing the bail plea, told the court that the investigation had found Narayan Sahu's role to be extremely serious. According to agencies, he was involved in illegal cash collection of approximately ₹13 crore through an alleged coal levy syndicate. He remained absconding for nearly two and a half years and was not cooperating with the investigation.

After the hearing, the High Court stated that the investigating agencies have substantial and serious evidence against the accused, and that several entries in his name were found in the seized diary.

According to the Enforcement Directorate (ED), more than ₹570 crore was illegally collected through irregularities in coal transportation and permitting procedures in Chhattisgarh. Several IAS officers, businessmen, and former ministers are also under investigation in this case.