Is Illegal Mining Shielded by Politics? ED Pursues Mishra-Led Syndicate
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Synopsis
The ED intensifies its investigation into illegal mining in Sahibganj, targeting a syndicate allegedly led by a close aide of the Jharkhand Chief Minister. New charges implicate multiple individuals and corporations in a scheme involving over Rs 1,000 crore in illicit profits, raising questions about political protection in the mining sector.
Key Takeaways
- The ED is intensifying its probe into illegal mining activities in Sahibganj.
- Pankaj Mishra, a close aide of the Jharkhand Chief Minister, is allegedly at the center of the syndicate.
- New accusations have been made against additional individuals and companies.
- The total estimated proceeds from the illegal activities exceed Rs 1,000 crore.
- Assets worth crores have been seized by the ED as part of the investigation.
Ranchi, July 2 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has submitted its fifth supplementary prosecution complaint in the Sahibganj illegal mining and extortion case, tightening its grip on the alleged syndicate led by Pankaj Mishra, a close associate of the Jharkhand Chief Minister.
The complaint, presented to the Special PMLA Court in Ranchi on June 30, identifies eight individuals and two companies as new accused in the money laundering investigation, according to a press release from the agency issued on Wednesday.
This brings the total to 19 individuals and entities implicated across six prosecution complaints—one original and five supplementary—in connection with the case involving proceeds of crime estimated at over Rs 1,000 crore.
Among the newly identified accused is Rajesh Yadav alias Dahu Yadav, who is allegedly a key enforcer in the network responsible for overseeing the illegal transport of stone across the Ganga river. The ED claims he also financed a fraudulent ferry tender that facilitated large-scale mineral smuggling. He is currently on the run.
Another implicated individual, Heera Lal Bhagat, is accused of conducting illegal mining operations through his company M/s Jai Maa Bhavani Stone Works. ED officials seized over Rs 3.13 crore in undisclosed cash from his location, believed to be direct proceeds from the illegal activities.
The complaint also sheds light on Nimay Chandra Shil, who allegedly colluded with Pankaj Mishra and his spouse to fraudulently obtain a mining lease in exchange for a 50% profit-sharing agreement.
Corporate involvement is also being scrutinized. The ED has implicated M/s Marine Infralink Logistics Pvt. Ltd. and its director Yash Jalan for purportedly providing the vessel M.V. Infralink-III, which was used to transport the illegally mined stones. Reports indicate the company received Rs 2.75 crore sourced from the syndicate's criminal proceeds.
The ED's investigation commenced following an FIR filed by the Jharkhand Police against Mishra and his associates under various provisions of the IPC and the Arms Act.
The inquiry under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) has uncovered a politically shielded cartel monopolizing mining and mineral transport in the Sahibganj area.
To date, the ED has confiscated and frozen assets, including Rs 5.34 crore in cash, an inland vessel, five industrial stone crushers, several vehicles, and bank balances exceeding Rs 13.32 crore.
Point of View
It is imperative to underscore the importance of transparency and accountability in governance. The unfolding investigation into the illegal mining syndicate, allegedly linked to political figures, emphasizes the need for stringent enforcement against corruption, which undermines public trust and the rule of law.
NationPress
03/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the ED investigation?
The ED has filed its fifth supplementary prosecution complaint, implicating more individuals and companies in the Sahibganj illegal mining case.
Who is Pankaj Mishra?
Pankaj Mishra is a close aide of the Jharkhand Chief Minister and is accused of leading an illegal mining syndicate.
What are the financial implications of this case?
The illegal activities are estimated to involve proceeds of crime exceeding Rs 1,000 crore.
What actions have been taken by the ED so far?
The ED has seized assets worth several crores, including cash, vehicles, and industrial equipment linked to the illegal mining operations.
What is the role of corporate entities in this case?
The investigation has revealed that certain companies allegedly aided the illegal mining operations by providing resources and vessels.
