The Delhi High Court has set aside the Economic Offences Wing FIR and the Enforcement Directorate's money laundering investigation against NewsClick and its founder-editor Prabir Purkayastha, holding that the case lacked the ingredients of fraud or criminal breach of trust.

Court Grants Relief to NewsClick

The Delhi High Court has quashed the FIR filed by the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) and the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) money laundering investigation in the foreign funding case involving NewsClick and its founder-editor Prabir Purkayastha.

Justice Neena Bansal Krishna, in her order, observed that the agencies had carried out extensive investigations without producing concrete evidence of fraud. The court said that even if the allegations in the FIR were accepted at face value, they did not establish offences such as cheating or criminal breach of trust.

Why the court intervened

The High Court said the EOW FIR and the ED's money laundering case did not disclose the essential ingredients of fraud or breach of trust, and that continuing the proceedings would amount to a misuse of the legal process.

The judgment described the continuation of the proceedings as a misuse of the legal process and noted that fraud requires a deceived party, which was absent in the present case.

Origin of the Foreign Funding Case

The case originated from an FIR registered by the Delhi Police in August 2020. Investigators alleged that NewsClick received foreign direct investment (FDI) worth ₹9.59 crore from an American company, Worldwide Media Holdings LLC.

Authorities questioned the valuation of shares, claiming that shares with a face value of ₹10 were issued at a premium of ₹11,510 per share despite the company not being profitable. Investigators alleged that the structure was designed to bypass the 26% FDI cap applicable to Indian media organisations.

Following the FIR, the ED conducted searches at the offices of NewsClick, as well as at premises linked to directors and shareholders under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Officials seized foreign currency, documents and digital devices during the raids.

The ED later stated that NewsClick had received ₹38.05 crore in foreign funds over three years, including ₹9.59 crore through FDI and ₹28.46 crore classified as export of services revenue.

Parallel Investigations and UAPA Case

The controversy widened in 2023 after BJP MP Nishikant Dubey referred to a New York Times report in Parliament and alleged that some journalists were involved in spreading Chinese propaganda. Union Minister Anurag Thakur also publicly alleged links between businessman Neville Roy Singham and entities associated with NewsClick.

On August 17, 2023, the Delhi Police Special Cell registered a separate case against NewsClick under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and sections of the Indian Penal Code relating to promoting enmity and criminal conspiracy.

Purkayastha was arrested on October 3, 2023, in connection with that case. The Special Cell questioned 46 individuals and conducted searches at 31 locations linked to NewsClick and journalists associated with the platform. An 8,000-page chargesheet was filed in March 2024.

Multiple Agencies Involved

NewsClick is operated by PPK NewsClick Studio Private Limited and was founded by Purkayastha in 2009.

Over the course of the investigation, multiple agencies became involved, including the Delhi Police Special Cell, the EOW, the Income Tax Department, the ED and the CBI, each examining different aspects of the allegations related to foreign funding and compliance.

Implications of the High Court Order

The Delhi High Court's decision effectively ends the EOW FIR and the ED's related money laundering proceedings against NewsClick and Purkayastha. The court's observations on arbitrary action and the absence of evidence of fraud are likely to be closely examined in future disputes involving financial investigations and media organisations.

The order does not automatically dispose of other proceedings, including the separate UAPA case being pursued by the Delhi Police Special Cell.

The investigation into the alleged Chhattisgarh liquor and District Mineral Foundation (DMF) scam has gathered pace, with the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) intensifying action against businessman Anwar Dhebar and retired IAS officer Anil Tuteja. Authorities claim that assets worth more than ₹1,400 crore linked to the accused and their associates have been attached as part of ongoing proceedings.

According to investigating agencies, the case involves allegations of large-scale financial irregularities and money laundering across multiple sectors. Officials allege that a network operating during the previous Congress-led government generated unlawful gains through several schemes and transactions. The allegations remain under investigation and are subject to judicial scrutiny.

Probe Scope Expanded

Investigators have widened the scope of the inquiry to examine financial transactions, asset ownership patterns, and the role of individuals associated with the alleged network. The ED has already filed prosecution complaints under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), and further proceedings are underway before the designated court.

Officials claim that the alleged syndicate generated thousands of crores of rupees through multiple activities currently under investigation. Among these, the liquor-related case is being examined as one of the largest components of the overall probe.

Allegations in Liquor Case

According to the ED, the liquor scam investigation centres on allegations that illegal profits were generated through the distribution and sale of liquor via government-linked retail channels. Investigators allege that the network accumulated substantial proceeds of crime through these operations.

The agency has reportedly named dozens of individuals in connection with the case and continues to examine financial records, corporate structures, and transaction trails.

DMF and Other Cases

Apart from the liquor case, authorities are examining alleged irregularities involving District Mineral Foundation funds. Investigators claim that contracts were awarded to preferred entities and that commissions were allegedly collected through the execution of public projects.

Additional inquiries are underway into alleged irregularities involving hologram procurement, placement agency payments, and custom milling operations. Officials say these cases form part of a broader examination of public fund utilisation and procurement practices.

Assets Under Attachment

Investigating agencies state that attached assets include land parcels, commercial properties, investments, bank deposits, shares, mutual fund holdings, and other movable and immovable properties.

Officials claim that a significant portion of the attached assets consists of properties allegedly held through benami arrangements. The ownership and source of these assets remain subject to legal proceedings and court review.

Legal Proceedings Continue

The ED has informed the court about its findings through chargesheets and prosecution complaints filed under anti-money laundering laws. Hearings in the matter are expected to continue as investigators present evidence and financial records collected during the probe.

Authorities are also examining the role of other individuals who may have been connected to the alleged transactions and financial networks under investigation.

The Tirupati laddu ghee case has widened significantly as the Enforcement Directorate carried out coordinated searches at 15 locations across seven states. The action marks a deeper phase of investigation into alleged money laundering linked to the supply chain of ghee used in offerings at Tirupati Balaji Temple.

Officials said the raids uncovered cash, property documents, and evidence of large-scale financial transactions suspected to be part of a structured laundering network. The case now spans multiple business hubs across India.

Multi-state coordination

The enforcement action covered key cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Dehradun, Guntur, Dindigul, Roorkee, and Ahilyanagar.

According to officials, the Tirupati laddu ghee case probe is no longer confined to regional supply concerns but is now tracking financial flows across multiple states and sectors. Teams examined banking records, business ledgers, and digital transaction trails during the searches.

Bikaner search operation

A significant development emerged from Bikaner, where ED officials searched the residence and office of ghee trader Ashish Agarwal in Koyla Gali. The team examined financial documents and business records for several hours.

Sources indicated that investigators are verifying whether funds linked to the Tirupati laddu ghee case were routed through trading firms to mask their origin. However, no formal seizure details specific to the Bikaner premises have been officially disclosed.

Cash and assets seized

During the raids, investigators recovered around ₹60 lakh in cash from various locations. Preliminary findings suggest that investments and assets worth over ₹45 crore may be linked to suspected proceeds of crime.

The Tirupati laddu ghee case has now entered a crucial phase where asset tracing and financial mapping are central to the probe. Authorities are examining bank accounts, investment portfolios, and property holdings connected to individuals under scrutiny.

Property records examined

Officials also seized documents related to multiple immovable properties registered in the names of accused persons and their family members. These records are being analysed to determine ownership structures and possible benami arrangements.

Investigators suspect that layered financial transactions were used to integrate unaccounted money into legitimate business channels linked to the Tirupati laddu ghee case.

Alleged laundering network

Preliminary assessment points to the use of fake purchase and sales invoices to generate and circulate unaccounted income. The ED suspects that multiple entities across states were involved in creating a structured financial web.

The Tirupati laddu ghee case is now being examined as part of a broader money laundering framework, where legitimate supply chains may have allegedly been misused for financial layering.

Temple supply scrutiny

The controversy initially began with concerns over the quality of ghee used in offerings at Tirupati Balaji Temple. However, it has now evolved into a wider financial investigation involving multiple agencies.

Officials are also reviewing procurement contracts and vendor records to establish whether irregularities existed in the supply chain and financial routing.

Supporters of former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan allegedly attacked an Enforcement Directorate team shortly after it conducted searches at his residence here on Wednesday, damaging vehicles and creating a tense situation near Bakery Junction.

The 12-member ED team had arrived to carry out raids linked to a money laundering case involving Vijayan’s daughter T. Veena’s IT firm, Exalogic Solutions, and the Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited (CMRL). The operation, which also covered multiple other locations, triggered protests by CPI(M) workers, who reportedly hurled stones and smashed windows of the vehicles used by the central agency team.

Violent protests erupt near former CM’s house

Local reports and visuals from the spot showed agitated party workers gathering outside Vijayan’s residence as the raids progressed. Police forces were deployed both outside and inside the premises to manage the situation. Despite the unrest, the ED team completed its searches and returned safely to its zonal office, officials said. However, the vehicles sustained significant damage, and authorities indicated that legal action would follow against those involved in the attack.

Vijayan calls raid a political move

Reacting sharply to the development, Pinarayi Vijayan said the ED had been trying to conduct such a raid for a long time. He remarked that the action would “give satisfaction to certain people,” apparently referring to political rivals. The veteran CPI(M) leader alleged that central agencies were being selectively used against opposition parties by the BJP-led Centre.

Vijayan also referred to recent remarks by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and claimed that such actions were part of a larger pattern of “deliberate attacks” on opposition voices. He asserted that these moves would not weaken his party or the larger resistance against the central government. “None of this is going to end us,” Vijayan said, adding that strong support from party workers and local people during the incident reflected the organisational strength of the CPI(M).

Kejriwal accuses misuse of agencies

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also weighed in, condemning the raid as another instance of central agencies being misused to target opposition leaders. His reaction comes amid a string of similar actions against leaders of non-BJP parties in different states.

Background of the money laundering case

The ED registered a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in 2024. It stems from allegations that CMRL paid around ₹1.72 crore to Exalogic Solutions during 2018-19, shown as expenses for software and IT services that were allegedly never provided. The total money laundering probe is reportedly linked to transactions worth Rs 182 crore. 

The issue gained fresh traction after the Kerala High Court dismissed a petition filed by CMRL on Tuesday seeking to cancel the ED investigation. The raids followed within 24 hours.

Political heat rises in Kerala

The development has intensified the already charged political atmosphere in Kerala. The Left Democratic Front (LDF), led by CPI(M), has long accused the Centre of misusing investigative agencies. The ruling front in the state has described the action as politically motivated, especially ahead of key political developments.

Security remained tight around the former Chief Minister’s residence even as the searches concluded. Party supporters maintained a strong presence, projecting it as a show of unity against what they called “vendetta politics.”

What lies ahead

With the ED likely to analyse the material gathered during the raids, further summons or actions cannot be ruled out. The incident also raises questions about the security of central agency teams during sensitive operations in politically sensitive areas.

Opposition parties in Kerala, including the Congress-led UDF, are watching the developments closely. While some have maintained a cautious stand, the episode is expected to dominate political discourse in the coming days.

The case continues to be under investigation by both the ED and the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO). Legal experts suggest that the outcome could have implications not just for the individuals involved but also for the broader narrative of Centre-state relations and agency autonomy. 

ED Raids in Bilaspur and Durg Over Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam

Enforcement Directorate seizes 17 kg gold, diamond jewellery and cash from premises linked to absconding accused in major liquor policy case

In a major overnight operation, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted extensive searches at multiple locations in Bilaspur and Durg in connection with the ongoing probe into the Chhattisgarh liquor scam. Teams spent nearly 22 hours at the residence and business establishments of Vivek Agrawal, brother of absconding accused Vikas Agrawal alias Subbu, recovering significant quantities of gold, diamond jewellery and cash, according to initial reports from the ground.

The action, which began in the early hours of Thursday, targeted properties linked to individuals allegedly connected with the multi-crore liquor syndicate. While the ED is yet to issue an official statement on the exact recoveries, sources familiar with the development indicated that valuables worth several crores were taken into possession from Vivek Agrawal’s premises in Bilaspur.

Intense scrutiny at Magneto Mall residence

ED officials reached Vivek Agrawal’s house located at Magneto Mall in Bilaspur early Thursday morning. Security was tightened immediately, with CRPF personnel deployed and all entry points sealed. Teams conducted a thorough examination of documents, electronic devices and other materials inside the property, with the operation continuing late into the night.

A parallel team simultaneously visited his jewellery shop, Shriram Jewellers in Sadar Bazaar. Officers examined stock registers, purchase-sale records and investment-related papers at the outlet. The prolonged presence of ED vehicles and personnel drew attention in the area, though locals remained largely unaware of the full scope initially.

Link to absconding accused Vikas Agrawal alias Subbu

The raids are primarily focused on tracing the financial trail of Vikas Agrawal, also known as Subbu, who is considered a close associate of jailed businessman Anwar Dhebar. Anwar Dhebar is one of the key figures named in the liquor scam probe. Vikas Agrawal has been absconding for nearly four years and has been declared a proclaimed offender by the court.

Investigators believe Vikas and his brother Vivek were involved in facilitating the collection of alleged commissions from liquor vends. Sources said the agency is examining whether unaccounted assets and investments in the jewellery business were used to park or launder proceeds linked to the scam. ED teams are now scrutinising benami properties and recent high-value transactions in the brothers’ names.

Action in Durg targets BJP leader and builder

Simultaneously, ED teams carried out searches at the residence and office of Chaturbhuj Rathi, a prominent businessman and active BJP leader in Durg. Rathi is associated with several firms, including Amar Infra (Amar Buildcon), Amar Mahabir Coal Mines, Amar Private Limited and Tar Carpet Private Limited. These companies are reportedly involved in road and bridge construction, shopping mall projects and coal mining.

Officials examined financial records and investment documents of nearly half a dozen firms linked to him. Rathi had been in the news earlier when the Income Tax department conducted searches during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Speculation about his possible contest in the 2023 assembly polls had also surfaced earlier.

In Bhilai, teams also visited the residence and factory of Govind Mandal in E-Block, Vitthal Puram. Mandal later claimed that the team had reached his premises by mistake and was actually looking for another location. The searches lasted several hours.

Background of Chhattisgarh liquor scam

The ED’s investigation stems from a larger liquor policy scam allegedly committed during the previous Bhupesh Baghel government. The agency had registered a case based on an FIR filed by the Anti-Corruption Bureau. The probe points to a syndicate involving certain IAS officers, including former Excise Department Managing Director A.P. Tripathi, and businessmen like Anwar Dhebar.

According to preliminary findings, the racket allegedly operated through multiple routes: collecting commissions from distilleries (initially ₹75 per case, later raised), circulating spurious liquor with fake holograms through government outlets, and suppressing actual sales records in 15 selected districts. Over 40 lakh cases were reportedly sold without proper duty payment, causing losses running into thousands of crores to the state exchequer.

The syndicate allegedly used a network of shop operators, excise officials and transporters to move unaccounted liquor bearing duplicate holograms. MRP was reportedly manipulated, and extra payments were made to distillery owners to offset commission costs through over-billing and tender adjustments.

Public interest and ongoing probe

These fresh raids come amid heightened scrutiny of money laundering angles in various scams reported from the state. The recovery of substantial gold and diamond jewellery has added a new dimension to the financial investigation. Locals in Bilaspur’s commercial areas expressed surprise at the scale of the operation, though many refrained from commenting openly.

ED officials are now focusing on connecting the dots between the absconding accused, his family’s business interests and possible proceeds of crime. Further summons and analysis of seized material are expected in the coming days.

The agency is also examining similar financial links in other locations as the probe widens. Officials indicated that more actions cannot be ruled out if additional evidence surfaces.

As the investigation progresses, questions are being raised about the depth of the network that allegedly operated for years. Authorities have maintained a tight lid on specifics, citing the sensitive nature of the case.

Delhi Court Grants Bail to I-PAC Co-Founder Vinesh Chandel in Money Laundering Case

ED raises no objection as court releases Vinesh Kumar Chandel on regular bail a day after West Bengal polls begin, citing cooperation in probe linked to alleged coal pilferage.

A Delhi court on Thursday granted regular bail to Vinesh Kumar Chandel, director and co-founder of the Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC), in a money laundering case being investigated by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The agency informed the court it had no objection to his release.

Additional Sessions Judge Amit Bansal of the Patiala House Courts allowed the plea after taking on record the investigating officer’s statement. The court noted Chandel’s cooperation with the probe so far.

Bail Terms and Conditions

The court granted bail on a personal bond of ₹2 lakh with a surety of the same amount. Standard conditions were imposed: Chandel cannot leave the country without prior permission, must not tamper with evidence, and has to continue cooperating with the investigation. The detailed order is expected to be uploaded shortly.

Senior advocate Vikas Pahwa, assisted by advocate Abhishek Mishra, represented Chandel in the matter.

This development came just a day after the commencement of polling in the West Bengal Assembly elections, where I-PAC has played a significant role in supporting the Trinamool Congress (TMC) campaign machinery.

Earlier Rejection of Interim Bail

Only days earlier, the same court had turned down Chandel’s application for interim bail. The judge had stressed that relief under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) is not granted routinely, especially given the stringent provisions of Section 45.

Chandel had cited his 74-year-old mother’s dementia and other family health issues, including hypertension and related conditions. However, the court found no evidence of sudden life-threatening emergency or acute deterioration that would justify immediate release. Medical documents were deemed insufficient, and the presence of other family members, including his wife and brother, was noted as adequate support.

The court had also highlighted the serious nature of the allegations involving economic offences.

Background of the Case

Chandel was arrested by the ED on April 13 in Delhi in connection with a money laundering probe stemming from an alleged coal pilferage case in West Bengal. He was later sent to 14 days of judicial custody on April 23 after the expiry of ED remand. The case traces back to an ECIR registered on March 28, based on an FIR by the Economic Offences Wing.

According to the ED, proceeds of crime from the coal scam—running into crores—were allegedly laundered through structured transactions, including splitting of accounted and unaccounted cash, bogus invoices, and hawala channels. I-PAC Consulting Pvt Ltd and its directors, including Chandel who holds a significant stake, came under scrutiny for their alleged role in concealing and layering such funds. Initial probes pointed to around ₹20 crore or more being routed through such networks.

Raids were conducted earlier at multiple locations linked to I-PAC officials across cities.

I-PAC’s Role in TMC’s Campaign Strategy

I-PAC gained prominence for its data-driven approach in the 2021 West Bengal Assembly elections, where it helped shape TMC’s organisational strategy under Mamata Banerjee. The firm handled aspects ranging from candidate selection and booth-level micro-management to crafting speeches, social media content, posters, and slogans.

In the run-up to the 2026 polls, I-PAC reportedly analysed booth-level data from previous elections, categorising seats by strength and margins. Seats with narrow victories up to 15,000 votes received special attention. The team was also involved in monitoring Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, deploying shadow agents to assist voters facing deletions, and providing real-time ground inputs through a dedicated team that organised small-scale meetings.

The firm’s deep involvement had made it a key pillar of TMC’s election machinery, though the party has developed internal capacities over the years to handle data and outreach.

Political Timing and Reactions

The arrest, which came weeks before the polls, triggered strong reactions from TMC leaders, who questioned the timing and described the ED action as politically motivated. The development added another layer of tension in what is already a keenly contested election in the state.

With Chandel’s release on regular bail, the focus now shifts to the continuation of the investigation. The ED’s decision not to oppose bail has been noted, though the agency retains the right to pursue the case further.

Legal experts point out that while bail has been granted, the underlying PMLA case involves serious allegations that could have implications for the financial trail being examined. Chandel is expected to remain bound by the court’s conditions as the probe proceeds.

The case continues to draw attention not just for its legal merits but also for its intersection with the high-stakes political battle in West Bengal. Further developments, including the uploading of the detailed bail order, are awaited.

ED tightens grip on Anil Ambani’s Reliance Group; assets worth ₹3,034 crore attached

The Enforcement Directorate’s latest action in the Reliance Communications bank fraud case brings the total value of seized assets to over ₹19,344 crore.

 In a major escalation of the ongoing money laundering probe against the Reliance Anil Ambani Group (RAAG), the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has provisionally attached fresh assets valued at ₹3,034.90 crore. The move, executed late Tuesday, marks a critical phase in the investigation into alleged bank fraud and the diversion of public funds involving Reliance Communications (RCOM).

With this latest attachment, the total value of assets seized by the federal agency in cases linked to the embattled industrialist has surged to a staggering ₹19,344 crore. The action follows a wider investigation directed by a Supreme Court-mandated Special Investigation Team (SIT) into the financial conduct of the group.

High-value properties under scanner

The properties targeted in this round of seizures include high-profile real estate and significant equity holdings. According to ED officials, the attached assets include a luxury flat in the iconic Usha Kiran Building at Cumballa Hill, South Mumbai, and a sprawling farmhouse in the hill station of Khandala.

Additionally, the agency has frozen land parcels in Sanand, Ahmedabad, and 7.71 crore shares of Reliance Infrastructure Ltd. These shares were reportedly held by Risee Infinity Pvt. Ltd. under the umbrella of the RiseE Trust, which the ED identifies as a private family trust of the Ambani family.

Allegations of fund diversion

The investigation stems from multiple FIRs filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) following complaints from a consortium of lenders. Major financial institutions, including the State Bank of India (SBI), Punjab National Bank (PNB), Bank of Baroda (BoB), and the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), have flagged massive defaults.

"The probe indicates that RCOM and its subsidiaries availed loans from various domestic and foreign lenders, with an outstanding amount currently estimated at ₹40,185 crore," a source familiar with the matter stated. The ED alleges that instead of being utilized for business operations or debt servicing, these funds were systematically diverted through fictitious transactions to related entities and family-controlled trusts.

Protective measures for public funds

The ED’s provisional attachment under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) is intended to prevent the "dissipation of assets." Under Section 8 of the Act, such properties can eventually be restored to the victim banks—and by extension, the public—following due legal process.

The agency claims the RiseE Trust was specifically structured to shield wealth from personal liabilities. "The trust was established to aggregate properties and protect them from the personal guarantees extended by Anil Ambani to lender banks," the ED noted in its official statement.

The Group’s formal response

Responding to the developments, a spokesperson for the Reliance Anil Ambani Group clarified that several of the attached properties, including the Usha Kiran flat and the Khandala farmhouse, are "legacy family assets" acquired over four decades ago.

The spokesperson further noted that the group intends to challenge the provisional attachment before the Adjudicating Authority, emphasizing that such an order is not a final finding of guilt. "The shareholding of Risee Infinity has been publicly disclosed since 2021, and we will present our case on the record within the prescribed legal timeline," the statement added.

A dramatic corporate decline

The current legal onslaught provides a sharp contrast to Anil Ambani’s standing in 2008, when he was ranked as the world's sixth-richest person with a net worth of $42 billion. Following the death of family patriarch Dhirubhai Ambani in 2002 and a subsequent 2006 demerger with his brother Mukesh Ambani, Anil took control of the group’s telecom, power, and financial services arms.

However, the empire has since buckled under intense competition and mounting debt. In 2020, during proceedings in a UK court, the industrialist famously claimed his net worth had fallen to "zero," stating that his liabilities far outweighed his assets.

Forward outlook on recovery

As the probe continues, the focus now shifts to the Adjudicating Authority, where the ED must prove that the attached assets are indeed "proceeds of crime." Legal experts suggest that the sheer scale of the attachment—now nearing the ₹20,000 crore mark—could pave the way for a massive restitution process for the state-run banks involved.

For now, the ground reality for the once-mighty Reliance Group remains one of constant legal scrutiny and shrinking corporate control, as agencies continue to trace the complex web of transactions that led to the collapse of one of India's most prominent business houses.

ED Raids Builder, Jeweller Premises in Chhattisgarh Over Bharatmala Links

Enforcement Directorate teams conducted early morning searches at multiple locations in Durg-Bhilai and Bilaspur on Thursday, targeting properties linked to a prominent builder-politician and a leading sarrafa businessman in connection with the ongoing probe into alleged irregularities in land compensation under the Bharatmala project.

The action, which began in the early hours, focused on financial records, property documents, and investment details at the residences and offices of those under scrutiny. Officials were seen carrying out detailed examination of papers related to several firms.

Searches in Durg-Bhilai

Teams from the Enforcement Directorate zeroed in on the premises of Chaturbhuj Rathi, director of Amar Infra (also referred to as Amar Builders), a known name in the construction sector and a BJP functionary. Raids took place at his residence and office in Durg, where officers spent hours scrutinising records of nearly half a dozen associated companies.

Local sources said the teams were particularly examining land-related transactions and investments. A separate team also visited the factory and residence of Govind Mandal in Bhilai as part of the same operation. The activity continued through the morning, with officials documenting various files.

Action in Bilaspur

In Bilaspur, a larger contingent of over 10 ED officials targeted the home and business establishment of Vivek Agrawal, a prominent jeweller running Shri Ram Jewellers in the Sadar Bazaar area. The searches are understood to be linked to financial trails connected to his brother, Vikas Agrawal, who is wanted in a separate liquor scam case and reportedly close to certain political figures.

Investigators are examining possible syndicate connections and fund movements that may overlap with the larger land compensation probe. The operation in Bilaspur appeared focused on tracing assets and transactions that could have links to the main case.

Background of the Bharatmala Compensation Probe

The current raids form part of the Enforcement Directorate’s money laundering investigation stemming from alleged irregularities in compensation payments for land acquired under the Bharatmala Pariyojana, particularly stretches of the Raipur-Visakhapatnam economic corridor.

Earlier probes by the state’s Economic Offences Wing (EOW) had flagged manipulation of revenue records, including backdated mutations, partitions, and inflated claims in several villages. Patwaris and Revenue Inspectors allegedly prepared cases that were forwarded to collectors, leading to disbursement of compensation that raised red flags.

In some instances, land was reportedly purchased in the names of relatives of influential people shortly before acquisition notifications, allowing them to claim higher payouts. The EOW has already filed a chargesheet in a related matter involving around Rs 32 crore in alleged embezzlement and arrested several revenue officials, including a former SDM.

Political Names and Official Scrutiny

The scandal has drawn in names from both BJP and Congress circles, with reports of former ministers, MLAs, and senior leaders from various parties figuring in the web of connections. ED officials are tracing links through close associates and family members to establish the extent of involvement.

A dozen former collectors from districts including Raipur, Korba, Dhamtari, Bilaspur, and Durg are also under the scanner. In Korba, irregularities are said to be particularly pronounced, with questions being raised over the role of multiple collectors, including women officers who served there.

Initial findings suggest that in certain pockets, compensation was distributed in a seemingly arbitrary manner, prompting deeper financial scrutiny by the central agency.

Recent Momentum in Investigation

The Thursday operation comes days after ED teams conducted searches at eight locations in Raipur, Abhanpur, Dhamtari, and Kurud, where cash worth Rs 66.9 lakh and 37 kg of silver were reportedly seized. Those raids too were tied to the same Bharatmala land compensation irregularities.

The agency is now widening its net to include builders, businessmen, and property dealers who may have facilitated or benefited from the alleged irregularities. Property dealers and middlemen—nearly two dozen of them—have already come under the lens.

Impact and What Lies Ahead

For residents in the affected districts, the prolonged probe has brought uncertainty over land records and ongoing infrastructure work. The Bharatmala project, meant to improve connectivity, has seen its fair share of controversies regarding acquisition processes across states.

Officials familiar with the matter indicated that Thursday’s searches yielded documents that could further strengthen the money laundering case. The ED is expected to continue questioning those whose premises were searched and may issue summons in the coming days.

Further action could include attachment of properties if proceeds of crime are established. The agency is also separating its probe into the role of senior IAS officers from the state-level EOW findings against lower revenue staff.

As the investigation progresses, more details on the scale of the alleged scam and the involvement of political figures are likely to emerge. The case underscores the challenges in ensuring transparency during large-scale land acquisition for national infrastructure projects.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has uncovered an alleged foreign funding network linked to religious activities in Chhattisgarh, with investigators claiming that nearly Rs 95 crore entered India over six months through foreign debit cards. According to officials, the money was allegedly routed into the country between November 2025 and April 2026 and used in part for Christian missionary-linked operations in the state’s tribal and Maoist-affected districts.

The Chhattisgarh Christian funding probe has placed focus on Bastar and Dhamtari, where central agencies say nearly Rs 6.5 crore was spent on religious outreach and associated activities. The findings have emerged from an ongoing money laundering investigation involving foreign nationals, digital financial trails and suspected regulatory violations.

Airport detention triggers case

The investigation gained momentum after immigration authorities detained a foreign national, identified as Micah Mark, at Bengaluru International Airport. Officials said he was intercepted on the basis of an ED-issued lookout circular.

During the search, authorities recovered 24 foreign debit cards from his possession. Investigators suspect the cards were used to withdraw cash from ATMs across India in a structured manner to avoid scrutiny and bypass formal financial reporting systems.

TTI under scanner

At the centre of the case is ‘The Timothy Initiative’ (TTI), an organisation that agencies say is linked to Christian evangelical work. ED officials allege that TTI and its associates operated a covert funding structure to support activities in India without routing money through authorised regulatory channels.

According to investigators, the organisation is not registered under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), yet foreign funds were allegedly used to support operations on the ground. Officials are now examining whether this constituted a direct violation of India’s foreign funding and anti-money laundering laws.

Cash withdrawals tracked

ED said its searches on April 18 and 19 covered six locations across the country. During the operation, officials tracked repeated ATM withdrawals allegedly made using foreign debit cards issued by Truist Bank in the United States.

Investigators believe the method was designed to fragment transactions and avoid detection by regulators. Instead of formal banking transfers, funds were allegedly brought into India through multiple withdrawals, reducing the chances of immediate compliance alerts.

Officials also said digital accounting and billing tools were used to maintain transaction records, with parts of the system believed to have been operated from outside India.

Seizures and evidence

During the raids, ED seized 25 foreign debit cards, Rs 40 lakh in cash, electronic devices and digital records. Investigators also collected documents that may help establish the financial chain, beneficiary network and end use of funds.

Officials indicated that the case may involve a larger organised money laundering structure with interstate and international links. The agency is now examining the role of intermediaries, local facilitators and financial handlers connected to the network.

Bastar focus sharpens 

The alleged use of foreign funds in Bastar and Dhamtari has drawn particular attention because both regions remain sensitive from a security and tribal policy standpoint. Officials are assessing whether the funds were used only for religious expansion or if there were broader local influence operations attached to them.

The probe has also raised questions around financial surveillance, compliance enforcement and the monitoring of foreign-linked religious funding in conflict-prone districts. The matter is likely to figure in wider Government Updates and internal security reviews.

Investigation widens further

The ED has not announced arrests beyond the detention linked to the airport interception, but officials said the investigation remains active and more summons are likely. Financial records, digital devices and cross-border transactions are now under forensic review.

Jacqueline Fernandez seeks to turn approver in Sukesh Chandrashekhar case; Delhi court issues notice to ED

The actress filed a formal plea at the Patiala House Court expressing willingness to testify for the prosecution in the ₹200-crore money laundering investigation.

 In a significant turn of events for one of India's most high-profile financial scandals, Bollywood actress Jacqueline Fernandez has moved a Delhi court seeking to become an "approver" in the ₹200-crore money laundering case involving alleged conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar.

The development surfaced during a hearing at the Patiala House Court on Friday, where the actress expressed her intent to cooperate with the prosecution. Additional Sessions Judge Prashant Sharma has issued a notice to the Enforcement Directorate (ED), seeking its response to Fernandez's application by April 20.

Formal plea for pardon

According to legal sources, Fernandez filed the application through her counsel, expressing readiness to provide a "full and true disclosure" of the facts surrounding the case.

The court directed the actress to submit a formal request to the ED, as the agency must first evaluate her statement before deciding whether to support her transition from an accused to a prosecution witness.

Shift in legal strategy

This move marks a dramatic shift in Fernandez’s legal strategy. For months, the actress had maintained her status as a victim of Chandrashekhar's "sophisticated fraud," claiming she was unaware of the illicit source of the lavish gifts she received.

However, after the Supreme Court and Delhi High Court declined to quash the criminal proceedings against her, legal experts suggest that turning approver may be an attempt to secure a pardon under Section 306 of the Code of Criminal Procedure.

Details of alleged gifts

The ED has previously alleged that Fernandez was a direct beneficiary of the proceeds of crime. The agency’s supplementary chargesheet detailed gifts worth over ₹7 crore, including designer bags, luxury cars, and expensive jewellery.

Reports also indicated that Chandrashekhar went as far as gifting a customized private jet and a French vineyard to the actress, though these claims remain part of the ongoing investigation.

Victims of the scam

The case stems from an FIR filed by Aditi Singh, wife of former Fortis Healthcare promoter Shivinder Singh, who alleged that Chandrashekhar cheated her of ₹200 crore.

Chandrashekhar allegedly posed as a high-ranking government official from the Law Ministry while operating out of Rohini Jail to orchestrate the massive extortion racket.

Official stance on status

While Fernandez seeks to testify against Chandrashekhar, the ED has previously argued that she was "consciously involved" in using the proceeds of crime.

The agency's response on Monday will be crucial in determining if her testimony offers enough evidentiary value to warrant a pardon, especially as the case reaches the stage of arguments on charges.

Future legal outlook

If the court and the ED accept her plea, Fernandez will be required to testify truthfully against all co-accused, including Chandrashekhar and his wife, Leena Maria Paul.

Failure to provide a full disclosure after being granted approver status could lead to her being tried for the original offences as well as for giving false evidence. For now, the actress has been granted permission to travel abroad for professional commitments later this month.

As the ₹200-crore money laundering case continues to grab national headlines, all eyes are now on the ED's upcoming response to this latest legal gambit in the Trending News India circuit.