What Actions Did ED Take in the MP Education Scam?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- ED's decisive action against financial misconduct.
- Provisional attachment of assets worth Rs 4.5 crore.
- Investigations expose widespread fraud within BEO.
- Importance of oversight in public financial transactions.
- Continued updates expected as the case progresses.
Indore, Sep 20 (NationPress) In a major action under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) from the Indore Sub-Zonal Office has provisionally attached 14 immovable assets valued at Rs 4.5 crore.
These assets are tied to a large-scale financial scam involving the Block Education Office (BEO) in Katthiwada, located in District Alirajpur, Madhya Pradesh.
The enforcement action is a result of an FIR lodged by the Katthiwada Police, detailing extensive misappropriation of governmental funds from 2018 to 2023.
Officials and staff at the BEO are accused of clearing fraudulent bills through the Integrated Financial Management System (IFMS), diverting public money intended for educational advancement.
Previously, the ED executed search operations under Section 17 of the PMLA, which led to the confiscation of incriminating documents and the freezing of significant bank accounts.
The principal accused, Kamal Rathore, was apprehended on August 7, 2025, and is currently in judicial custody.
According to the findings of the ED, about Rs 20.47 crore was misappropriated through 917 fake bills and funneled into 134 bank accounts.
The accused allegedly laundered the funds by withdrawing large amounts in cash, transferring money among family members, and investing in real estate within Alirajpur and Panna districts.
Properties were acquired under the names of relatives and subsequently sold to hide the illicit origins of the funds.
The attached properties are suspected to be part of the laundering network aimed at obscuring the proceeds of crime.
Officials from the ED have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, with a focus on tracing additional assets and understanding the complete money trail. This case underscores the increasing use of digital financial systems in executing intricate frauds, emphasizing the necessity for stringent oversight in public sector transactions.
The swift action of the ED conveys a powerful message regarding accountability and the repercussions of financial misconduct within governmental institutions.
Further updates are anticipated as the inquiry progresses into one of the most significant education-related financial scams in Madhya Pradesh in recent years.