Bhopal, June 2: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has taken significant action under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002, seizing approximately ₹18.20 crore in movable and immovable assets linked to former District Excise Officer Dharmendra Singh Bhadauria and his family in Alirajpur district, Madhya Pradesh. This operation was conducted by the Bhopal zonal office.
The case was initiated based on a First Information Report (FIR) filed by the Special Police Establishment (Lokayukta) in Indore. The FIR was registered under Sections 13(1)(b) and 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. The complaint alleged that Dharmendra Singh Bhadauria had acquired assets exceeding his known sources of income.
During the investigation, it was revealed that from 1987 to August 31, 2025, the accused and his family amassed assets far exceeding their legitimate income. Official records indicate their lawful income was approximately ₹2 crore, while they reportedly acquired and spent around ₹11.18 crore during this period. The investigation uncovered disproportionate assets amounting to about ₹9.18 crore, which is approximately 459% more than their declared income.
According to investigative agencies, a search operation yielded substantial cash, gold and silver jewelry, bullion, and other valuable items from various locations and bank lockers. These assets are believed to be linked to Dharmendra Singh Bhadauria and his family members. During questioning, the accused acknowledged ownership of these assets but failed to provide satisfactory documentation or clear explanations regarding their legitimate income sources.
The investigation also found that several high-value properties were purchased in the family’s name during the investigation period, with unclear sources of the funds used. The agency stated that these properties did not align with their declared income and were deemed to be acquired through illegal means.
Following the investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, the ED concluded that these assets could be proceeds of crime. Consequently, assets valued at approximately ₹18.20 crore have been temporarily confiscated, including cash, jewelry, and real estate.
The ED’s action aims to prevent the sale, transfer, or concealment of these assets, ensuring the integrity of future legal proceedings. The agency also noted that further investigations are ongoing, exploring additional aspects of the case.
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