Is the ED Closing in on Fugitive Arms Dealer Sanjay Bhandari?
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Synopsis
The Enforcement Directorate's relentless pursuit of arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari showcases India's determination to tackle economic fugitives. With properties under scrutiny both domestically and internationally, the legal proceedings will be pivotal in holding Bhandari accountable for his alleged financial crimes.
Key Takeaways
- ED intensifies legal action against Sanjay Bhandari.
- Properties in India and abroad are targeted for confiscation.
- Bhandari is accused of tax evasion and concealing income.
- The case highlights India's commitment to tackling economic fugitives.
- Upcoming hearings will be critical for the ED’s actions.
New Delhi, Aug 2 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has escalated its legal campaign against UK-based arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari, submitting a formal petition to Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court to seize his properties in India and overseas. This action comes on the heels of Bhandari being designated as a Fugitive Economic Offender (FEO) under the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018.
During proceedings, ED’s counsel contended that all assets associated with Bhandari—whether through corporate ownership or personal holdings—are subject to confiscation.
The agency informed the court that no third parties had raised objections concerning the identified properties, paving the way for the legal seizure.
The ED’s application lists a diverse range of assets, reportedly including prime real estate in Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, as well as international holdings in London and Dubai.
Among the scrutinized properties is the controversial Bryanston Square residence in London, which the ED claims was acquired and refurbished using funds tied to Bhandari, allegedly on behalf of businessman Robert Vadra—a claim Vadra has vehemently denied.
According to ED submissions, once an individual is declared an FEO, two categories of assets are subject to confiscation: those acquired through illicit proceeds and any other property—both domestic and international—in which the offender has a direct or indirect interest.
The agency stressed that this legal framework aims to prevent economic offenders from escaping prosecution by relocating abroad.
Bhandari, who fled to the UK in 2016 following income tax raids, is accused of hiding foreign income amounting to Rs 655 crore and evading taxes of Rs 196 crore.
Despite a UK court denying India's extradition request, Indian authorities have persisted in pressing for accountability through financial and legal avenues.
The Rouse Avenue Court has set the next hearing date for August 19, while the Delhi High Court is scheduled to hear Bhandari’s appeal against the FEO designation on August 8.
The outcome of these hearings will be pivotal in determining whether the ED can initiate full-scale confiscation of Bhandari’s assets, marking a crucial moment in India’s efforts to tackle high-profile economic fugitives.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the significance of the Enforcement Directorate's actions against Sanjay Bhandari. This case exemplifies India's commitment to addressing economic crimes, ensuring that no fugitive is beyond the reach of the law. We must remain vigilant and supportive of initiatives aimed at upholding justice and accountability.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act?
The Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018, allows authorities to confiscate properties of individuals who are declared fugitives in cases of economic offenses.
Why is Sanjay Bhandari being pursued?
Sanjay Bhandari is being pursued for concealing foreign income and evading substantial taxes, amounting to Rs 655 crore and Rs 196 crore, respectively.
What properties are involved in this case?
The properties include prime real estate in Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, and overseas holdings in London and Dubai.
What happens next in the legal proceedings?
The Rouse Avenue Court's next hearing is scheduled for August 19, while the Delhi High Court will hear Bhandari’s appeal against the FEO designation on August 8.
Has India been able to extradite Bhandari?
No, a UK court has rejected India's extradition request, but authorities continue to pursue accountability through other legal channels.
