Did ED Really Seize Rs 79 Crore in Properties Linked to Water Pollution in Punjab?
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Synopsis
In a shocking development, the Enforcement Directorate has seized assets worth Rs 79.93 crore from a Punjab-based company involved in water pollution, revealing the severe implications of environmental crime. This case underscores the urgent need for stricter regulations and accountability in industrial practices.
Key Takeaways
- ED's crackdown: Properties worth Rs 79.93 crore seized.
- Environmental violations: Company accused of severe water pollution.
- Legal implications: Ongoing investigations under PMLA.
- Public health concerns: Pollution impacting local communities.
- Broader context: Highlighting need for stricter environmental regulations.
Jalandhar, Dec 15 (NationPress) In a significant money laundering investigation concerning environmental violations, the Enforcement Directorate has provisionally seized assets, including land, buildings, and machinery, valued at Rs 79.93 crore from a company based in Punjab implicated in water pollution, as confirmed by an official on Monday.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED), from its Jalandhar Zonal Office, took action against Malbros International Pvt Ltd on Saturday as part of an inquiry into environmental crime under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
This investigation was initiated following a criminal complaint lodged by the Punjab Pollution Control Board, alleging that Malbros International breached the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 by injecting untreated wastewater into deep aquifers through reverse boring.
Findings from the ED's investigation indicated that the company (with its industrial facility located in village Mansoorwal, Tehsil Zira, District Ferozepur) generated and acquired Proceeds of Crime by intentionally polluting groundwater, persistently injecting untreated effluents into deep aquifers.
Moreover, the company faced accusations of repeatedly discharging wastewater onto land, into drains, and adjacent to a sugar mill.
Its operations involved a continuous illegal discharge of untreated effluents, leading to significant and irreversible ecological harm due to water pollution, resulting in health risks, crop loss, and livestock fatalities for nearby residents, according to a statement.
Previously, on July 16, 2024, searches were executed at six locations, resulting in the seizure of Rs 78.15 lakh in cash from the premises of Malbros International Pvt Ltd and its directors under Section 17 of the PMLA, 2002.
In a related matter, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in Shimla conducted searches at eight locations across Himachal Pradesh and Punjab on Saturday as part of an ongoing investigation into a large-scale fraudulent cryptocurrency Ponzi scheme.
Allegedly, the perpetrators of this scheme defrauded numerous investors from both Himachal Pradesh and Punjab, amounting to a staggering Rs 2,300 crore.
The ED's search operations resulted in the freezing of three lockers and bank accounts, along with fixed deposits totaling Rs 1.2 crore.
Additionally, incriminating documents related to investments in various properties, including benami assets, were recovered, allegedly acquired using the proceeds of crime generated through the Ponzi scheme.
Point of View
This incident highlights the urgent need for rigorous enforcement of environmental laws. The Enforcement Directorate's actions serve as a crucial reminder of the accountability required from industries to protect our natural resources and public health. The ongoing investigations will be pivotal in setting a precedent for future compliance.
NationPress
15/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the ED to seize the properties?
The seizure was prompted by a criminal complaint from the Punjab Pollution Control Board regarding violations of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.
How much is the total value of the seized properties?
The total value of the seized properties amounts to Rs 79.93 crore.
What environmental crime was committed by Malbros International?
Malbros International was accused of injecting untreated wastewater into deep aquifers and discharging wastewater inappropriately, causing severe groundwater pollution.
Has there been any previous enforcement action against the company?
Yes, on July 16, 2024, searches were conducted at six locations, resulting in the seizure of Rs 78.15 lakh in cash.
Are there other ongoing investigations related to environmental crimes?
Yes, the ED is also investigating a Ponzi scheme in Himachal Pradesh and Punjab, which has involved fraudulent activities amounting to Rs 2,300 crore.
