ED Raids in Ranchi: Cash Recovered from Minister’s Secretary’s Household, Linked to Corruption Probe

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids in Ranchi, leading to the recovery of a substantial amount of cash from the domestic help of Sanjiv Lal, the personal secretary to Jharkhand rural development minister Alamgir Alam. This development is part of an ongoing investigation into corruption within the state’s rural development department.

Sources indicate that the seized cash, primarily in ₹500 denominations, is estimated to range between ₹20-30 crore. Alongside cash, authorities also found jewelry during the operation. Alam, a prominent Congress leader representing Pakur constituency, has been embroiled in the aftermath of this raid.

The probe is connected to the arrest of Virendra Ram, the chief engineer of the rural development department, in February 2023, regarding a money laundering case linked to alleged irregularities in government scheme implementations. Further investigation revealed a complex network of illicit funds allegedly laundered through fictitious transactions, with funds purportedly used for real estate purchases in New Delhi, Jamshedpur, and Ranchi, as well as luxury vehicle acquisitions.

This raid marks a significant step in uncovering corruption within Jharkhand’s administration, shedding light on alleged malpractices and misuse of public funds. The ED’s continued efforts underscore the commitment to combatting financial crimes and ensuring accountability within governmental systems.