The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has attached assets valued at over Rs 1,000 crore in connection with the Chhattisgarh liquor scam, while also naming four additional accused individuals. The federal agency issued three provisional attachment orders on May 28 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), according to a statement released on Saturday.
Details of the Attachment Orders
The ED's action targets properties and assets linked to the alleged scam, which involves irregularities in the sale and distribution of liquor in the state. The attached assets include immovable properties such as land and buildings, as well as bank balances and other financial instruments. The total value of the attached assets exceeds Rs 1,000 crore, making it one of the largest such actions in recent times.
Four More Accused Named
In addition to the asset attachment, the ED has named four more individuals as accused in the case. Their identities have not been disclosed publicly, but they are believed to be key players in the alleged money laundering network. The investigation is ongoing, and further actions are expected.
The Chhattisgarh liquor scam came to light following a series of raids and investigations by the ED and other agencies. The case involves allegations of illegal liquor trade, tax evasion, and money laundering, with proceeds of crime being funneled through shell companies and benami transactions.
Impact and Next Steps
The attachment of assets is a significant step in the ED's efforts to dismantle the financial network behind the scam. The agency has urged the public to come forward with any information related to the case. Legal proceedings against the accused will continue, with the ED seeking to prosecute them under the PMLA.
The Chhattisgarh government has welcomed the ED's action, stating that it is committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in the state's liquor trade. The opposition has, however, called for a deeper probe into the role of senior officials and politicians.
