Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials executed search operations at multiple locations across Punjab and Chandigarh on Thursday, targeting builders and real estate companies implicated in an alleged land fraud case. The raids are part of a money laundering investigation initiated under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), according to officials familiar with the matter. The searches encompassed approximately a dozen locations in Mohali and Chandigarh, focusing on entities such as the Suntec City project, Ajay Sehgal, ABS Townships, Altus Builders, Dhir Constructions, and their associated parties.
The ED is also scrutinizing Nitin Gohal, who is suspected of aiding builders who defaulted on payments to the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) and providing them with political cover. Information reaching TahirRihat.com suggests that officials have identified Gohal as having links to Rajbir Ghuman, who serves as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. The investigation centers on accusations of fraud related to obtaining Change of Land Use (CLU) licenses from GMADA, followed by allegations of defrauding the public. Officials stated that the accused are alleged to have amassed crores of rupees from investors through these illicit activities.
A dramatic scene unfolded in Kharar, Mohali, where two bags filled with Rs 500 denomination notes were reportedly thrown from a flat in a residential society following an ED raid. Sources indicated that scattered bundles of cash were also found on the society grounds. Mobile footage capturing the bags of cash on the ground quickly circulated on social media. The specific flat targeted in Western Towers, Kharar, was reportedly raided by ED officials, although it remains unconfirmed whether the cash was directly connected to the broader land fraud case investigation in Punjab. At this point, the ED has not issued a statement confirming the cash incident in Kharar.
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia addressed the situation on social media platform X, questioning the origin and ownership of the cash. Majithia alleged a connection between the money and Rajbir Singh, the OSD to Chief Minister Mann, further claiming that the ED’s actions targeted close associates and relatives of Ghuman, including Nitin and Veer Davinder (Majithia posted on X). He also suggested the discovery of Hawala transactions and promised a significant expose in the near future.
The ED’s ongoing investigation highlights the persistent issue of land fraud and corruption within the real estate sector, and it underscores the importance of regulatory oversight and accountability. The investigation’s focus on alleged political connections raises questions about potential influence peddling and the need for transparency in government operations. The unconfirmed reports of cash being thrown from a building during the raid add a sensational element to the story, potentially drawing increased public attention and scrutiny. The ED’s investigation continues and could potentially lead to significant legal and political ramifications as more details emerge.
The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), under which these searches are conducted, empowers the ED to investigate offenses involving money laundering and to seize assets derived from criminal activity. The ED’s actions demonstrate the government’s commitment to combating financial crimes and holding individuals accountable for violating the law. The complexity of land fraud cases often requires extensive investigations and the cooperation of various agencies to uncover the full scope of the illegal activities. The ED’s ongoing efforts to unravel these intricate schemes reflect the agency’s dedication to upholding justice and protecting the interests of investors and the public.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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