The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday conducted searches at multiple locations in Punjab and Chandigarh in connection with a land fraud case. The raids targeted premises linked to an aide of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, as well as others. The ED's action is part of an investigation into alleged irregularities in land transactions.
Raids on OSD and Others
The ED teams searched the residence and office of an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the Chief Minister, along with properties of other individuals suspected to be involved in the case. The agency seized documents, digital devices, and other incriminating materials during the searches. Sources said the ED is probing a network of illegal land deals that allegedly involved government officials and private individuals.
CM Mann Denies Involvement
Reacting to the development, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann denied any involvement in the matter. In a statement, he said, "I have no connection with the case. The ED is free to investigate, and if anyone is found guilty, strict action will be taken." Mann also accused the previous government of being responsible for the alleged fraud.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab has been facing allegations of corruption, with the opposition demanding a probe. The ED's raids have intensified the political debate in the state.
Details of the Case
The land fraud case pertains to the illegal acquisition of government land in Mohali and other areas. The ED had registered a money laundering case based on a Punjab Police FIR. The investigation revealed that the accused allegedly forged documents and sold government land to private parties at undervalued rates, causing a loss to the exchequer.
- The ED has summoned several individuals for questioning in the coming days.
- Further searches are likely as the investigation progresses.
This is not the first time the ED has targeted AAP leaders. Earlier, the agency had raided premises of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in connection with the excise policy case. The opposition has accused the central government of misusing investigative agencies to target political rivals.
