Did the ED Attach Assets Worth Rs 2.58 Crore from a Himachal Official in a Bribery Case?
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Synopsis
The recent asset attachment by the ED highlights a significant corruption case involving Himachal Pradesh's Assistant Drug Controller and raises questions about the integrity of public officials. With a total of Rs 5.78 crore in assets now seized, the investigation reveals a deeper network of illicit activities. What will be the implications of these findings?
Key Takeaways
- ED's actions reflect a robust stance against corruption.
- Asset attachment indicates serious allegations of wrongdoings.
- Public trust in governance is imperative for a functioning democracy.
- Ongoing investigation aims to uncover the extent of illegal activities.
- Corruption in public service undermines the integrity of institutions.
New Delhi, Dec 3 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has provisionally attached two immovable properties valued at Rs 2.58 crore in connection with a case involving bribery, corruption, forgery, and disproportionate assets. This case pertains to Nishant Sareen, the Assistant Drug Controller of Himachal Pradesh, and his associate, Komal Khanna.
The attached properties include a residential flat located in Sector-20, Panchkula (Haryana) and another residential building situated in Shimla.
The investigation into money laundering follows an FIR filed by the Himachal Pradesh State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (SV&ACB) under Section 11 of the Prevention of Corruption Act against Sareen, who was serving as the Assistant Drug Controller in Baddi. The vigilance agency arrested him and presented a charge sheet in 2021 against both Sareen and Khanna.
In 2022, the Haryana Police launched another FIR against the duo for alleged extortion, intimidation, and forgery concerning a partnership deed of Zhenia Pharmaceuticals, Panchkula. Investigators discovered that Khanna's partnership share was unlawfully increased from 50 percent to 95 percent through Sareen's influence.
A third FIR (No. 08/2025) was registered in September of this year by SV&ACB, accusing Sareen of possessing disproportionate assets amounting to Rs 1.66 crore during his service as Drug Inspector/Assistant Drug Controller at various locations, including Nahan, Baddi, and Solan.
The ED reported that Sareen exploited his official capacity to demand illegal payments from pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors. Numerous pharma companies were reportedly coerced under threat to conduct business at significant losses with Zhenia Pharmaceuticals and Nia Pharma, both under Khanna's control.
The agency's investigation revealed that the proceeds of these illicit activities were channeled into personal assets, bank accounts, and real estate under the names of Khanna and members of Sareen's family.
In June 2025, the ED executed searches in this case, seizing incriminating documents, jewelry, vehicles, and freezing bank accounts totaling around Rs 3.20 crore. With this latest asset attachment, the total value of seized or attached assets in this case has escalated to Rs 5.78 crore.
Sareen, who was arrested by the ED on October 9 this year, is currently in judicial custody, and further investigation is ongoing.
Point of View
We recognize the seriousness of the allegations against public officials involved in corruption. The actions of the Enforcement Directorate in this case reflect a commitment to accountability and transparency. It is crucial for the public to be informed of such incidents to foster trust in governance and the legal system.
NationPress
03/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What properties were attached by the ED?
The ED attached two immovable properties, a residential flat in Sector-20, Panchkula, and a residential building in Shimla, valued at Rs 2.58 crore.
Who are the individuals involved in this case?
The individuals involved are Nishant Sareen, the Assistant Drug Controller of Himachal Pradesh, and his associate Komal Khanna.
What is the basis for the ED's investigation?
The investigation is based on allegations of bribery, corruption, forgery, and possession of disproportionate assets.
What actions have been taken against Sareen and Khanna?
Both individuals have been charged and Sareen was arrested on October 9 this year. The ED has also seized significant assets linked to their activities.
What is the total value of the assets seized in this case?
The cumulative value of seized or attached assets in this case has risen to Rs 5.78 crore.
