Is a Relative of Arrested Trinamool MLA Jiban Krishna Saha Under ED Investigation for Black Money Investments?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Investigation into a relative of MLA Jiban Krishna Saha.
- ED probing alleged money laundering through mutual funds.
- Connections to a school job scam highlighted.
- Investments began in 2019.
- Potential recovery of several crores of rupees.
Kolkata, Sep 4 (NationPress) A relative of the detained Trinamool Congress MLA Jiban Krishna Saha, linked to his in-law's family, is currently being scrutinized by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for acquiring investment assets in his name to manipulate proceeds from a school job scam.
Sources indicate that the funds were reportedly amassed by Saha.
According to ED sources, Saha has surfaced as the principal planner behind the investments in mutual funds. Allegedly, he misappropriated a significant sum from the funds he gathered for facilitating school jobs, which he then tactically invested in a mutual fund through a state-run bank with assistance from his close relative and brother-in-law.
Documents obtained by the ED reveal that this scheme commenced in 2019. During that period, several mutual accounts were established in the name of his brother-in-law, with consistent monthly deposits made.
Investigators suspect that this investment was cleverly devised as a method to launder black money.
During the ongoing investigation, it was uncovered that a candidate had provided Saha with a substantial sum of money in at least three installments, with the promise of employment. This money ultimately reached the brother-in-law through indirect means and was subsequently converted into a mutual fund, sources disclosed.
The ED has initiated efforts to locate additional documents and transaction records related to this case. Thus far, the inquiry has primarily focused on cash dealings, real estate acquisitions, and bank lockers. However, this time, evidence indicating the utilization of regular investment schemes like mutual funds for depositing corruption funds has surfaced.
As per ED sources, a notice for re-interrogation may soon be issued to Saha's brother-in-law. Additionally, all SIP investment accounts from 2019 to the present will be scrutinized. Investigators believe that this process could reveal traces of several crores of rupees.
Last month, the ED arrested Saha in connection with the School Service Commission recruitment scam. Following a six-day custody, the Trinamool MLA is currently incarcerated and will be presented in court again on September 12.