Enforcement Directorate money laundering investigations in-l

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated multiple money laundering investigations in India involving various sectors.

In West Bengal, the agency conducted raids at 15 locations connected to former Tourism Minister Indranil Sen and the Mahanirban Road Mass Art Society. The investigation focuses on allegations that the society used fraudulent claims of being a “UNESCO-sponsored entity” to sell high-priced, fake entry passes for Durga Puja preview shows, with estimated amounts involved between Rs 50 crore and Rs 60 crore.

Simultaneously, the ED conducted searches at 14 premises across Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula regarding a Rs 645 crore scam linked to IDFC First Bank. This probe involves the alleged embezzlement of public funds from the Haryana government and the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation. Investigators are examining how these funds were reportedly layered through the bank accounts of several jewelers—including Malik Jewelers, KLG Jewelers, and others—to conceal the proceeds of crime. The investigation suggests these funds may have reached IAS officers and other government employees. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has already filed a third charge sheet in a Panchkula special court naming six Haryana-cadre IAS officers and other officials.