Did ED File PMLA Charges in Corbett Illegal Construction Case?
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Synopsis
The ED has initiated serious legal action against former forest officials for their involvement in illegal constructions within Corbett National Park, raising significant concerns over corruption and environmental preservation. This case highlights the need for strict enforcement of laws protecting our natural heritage.
Key Takeaways
- ED files charge sheet under PMLA.
- Four former forest officials implicated.
- Illegal constructions in Corbett National Park.
- Assets valued at Rs 1.75 crore attached.
- Corruption and environmental concerns highlighted.
New Delhi, July 22 (NationPress) The Directorate of Enforcement (ED), located in Dehradun, has submitted a Prosecution Complaint (charge sheet) under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, targeting four former forest officials linked to unauthorized constructions within the premises of Corbett National Park.
The charges have been presented to the Special PMLA Court in Dehradun. Those named in the chargesheet comprise Kishan Chand, the then Divisional Forest Officer (DFO); Brij Bihari Sharma, a former Ranger; Akhilesh Tiwari, also a former DFO; and Mathura Singh Mavdi, another former Ranger, all from the Uttarakhand cadre.
This case originated from an FIR and chargesheet initiated by the Vigilance Establishment in Dehradun, encompassing various legal frameworks including the Indian Penal Code, the Forest Conservation Act (1980), the Wildlife (Protection) Act (1972), and the Prevention of Corruption Act (1988).
Subsequently, following a court order, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) re-registered the case as FIR No. RC0072023A0008 on October 11, 2023, and has filed its own chargesheet.
The investigation by the ED has indicated that the accused participated in the establishment of numerous illegal structures within the protected Corbett Tiger Reserve without obtaining necessary permissions from appropriate authorities.
These actions are believed to be part of a larger pattern of corruption and abuse of power. Earlier this month, the ED took significant steps by provisionally attaching immovable assets valued at around Rs 1.75 crore.
The properties involved are registered under the names of Rajlaxmi Sharma, spouse of accused Brij Bihari Sharma, and Abhishek Kumar Singh and Yugendra Kumar Singh, sons of Kishan Chand.
The ED's investigation remains active and is anticipated to yield further revelations in what is shaping up to be one of the most critical environmental and corruption scandals concerning protected forest land in Uttarakhand.
Further actions under the PMLA are expected as authorities continue to examine financial trails and asset acquisitions associated with the accused.
Point of View
This investigation underscores the critical need for accountability among public officials. It is vital for the integrity of our environmental laws and the preservation of natural resources that those in power are held responsible for their actions. This situation should serve as a wake-up call for stringent enforcement of regulations to protect our ecological heritage.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the basis for the ED's charges against the forest officials?
The ED's charges are based on a Prosecution Complaint filed under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), stemming from illegal constructions within Corbett National Park, linked to corruption and abuse of power.
What actions has the ED taken regarding the assets involved?
The ED has provisionally attached immovable properties worth approximately Rs 1.75 crore, connected to the accused individuals.
Who are the key individuals named in the chargesheet?
The chargesheet includes Kishan Chand, Brij Bihari Sharma, Akhilesh Tiwari, and Mathura Singh Mavdi, all former officials of the Uttarakhand cadre.
What legal frameworks are involved in this case?
The case involves multiple legal provisions, including the Indian Penal Code, the Forest Conservation Act, the Wildlife Protection Act, and the Prevention of Corruption Act.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The ED's investigation is ongoing, and further disclosures are expected as authorities continue to scrutinize financial trails linked to the accused.
