Varanasi Court Orders Confiscation of Rs 27.89 Crore Properties in Drug Syndicate Case
In a significant development in the ongoing crackdown on illicit drug operations, a fast track court in Varanasi has issued an order for the confiscation of five high-value properties belonging to Bhola Prasad Jaiswal. The properties, with an estimated total value of Rs 27.89 crore, are linked to his son, Shubham Jaiswal, who is identified as the kingpin of a notorious codeine cough syrup syndicate.
Legal Proceedings Under BNSS Section 107
The order was passed by Additional District Judge (14th Finance Commission) Manoj Kumar on Thursday, following the completion of hearings in the fast track court. The court acted under section 107 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), accepting the plea presented by the investigator in the case registered at Kotwali police station.
Special Public Prosecutor (NDPS) Arvind Srivastava detailed that the confiscated properties include:
- A commercial building located in Tulsipur
- Two residential houses situated in Lullapura Khurd and Jagatganj
- Plots of land at Bharlai Shivpur and Marhauli
During the proceedings, the court directed Bhola Prasad Jaiswal to explain why further legal action should not be initiated against him. The next hearing has been scheduled for March 3, by which time Bhola is required to file his reply.
Background of the Case and Previous Forfeitures
This latest confiscation adds to a series of legal actions against Bhola Prasad Jaiswal. Prior to this court order, properties worth over Rs 30 crore had already been forfeited by the Varanasi and Sonbhadra police. Bhola had challenged these earlier confiscations in court, filing objections against the multiple forfeitures of his movable and immovable assets.
The case gained momentum when Bhola was apprehended at Kolkata airport on November 29, 2025, while attempting to board a flight to Thailand. He was subsequently brought to Sonbhadra on transit remand on December 2 and has remained in judicial custody since then.
Implications and Ongoing Investigation
The confiscation of these properties represents a critical step in dismantling the financial infrastructure of the codeine cough syrup syndicate. Authorities are intensifying efforts to curb the illegal trade, which has been a persistent concern in the region.
The court's decision underscores the rigorous application of the BNSS in targeting assets acquired through illicit means, sending a strong message against organized crime networks involved in drug trafficking.
As the legal process continues, further developments are anticipated in the upcoming hearings, which will determine the final disposition of the confiscated properties and any additional penalties.
