New Delhi, April 28: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched a significant operation in connection with a money laundering case, conducting searches at eight locations in Abhanpur, Raipur, Dhamtari, and Kurud in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday.
This action is linked to allegations of illegal compensation received during land acquisition for the Raipur–Visakhapatnam highway under the Bharatmala project.
During the searches, the ED seized ₹6.69 million in cash, approximately 37.13 kilograms of silver bars, other silver items, digital devices, and several incriminating documents. According to the agency, these recoveries indicate potential financial irregularities and illegal transactions related to the case.
The investigation began based on an FIR registered by the Economic Offenses Wing in Raipur under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) of 2002.
This FIR implicated the then Sub-Divisional Officer (Revenue) Nirbhay Sahu and others under various sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and the Indian Penal Code, 1860.
Allegations suggest that government officials colluded to manipulate documents, altering land acquisition records to fraudulently obtain excessive compensation.
The investigation has also revealed that the accused conspired with certain public servants and other individuals. Despite notifications issued by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) under Section 3A of the National Highways Act, 1956, land ownership was deliberately transferred. Additionally, efforts were made to increase compensation amounts by subdividing land into smaller parcels before the notification under Section 3D.
According to the ED, compensation was approved and distributed based on modified and manipulated land records, resulting in amounts exceeding the actual value. The agency clarified that the additional funds obtained in this manner fall under the category of ‘proceeds of crime,’ causing harm to the government treasury and providing illegal benefits to the accused.
The ED stated that further investigations are ongoing, with efforts to identify other individuals and networks involved in the case.
–
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
Leave a Comment