What is the extent of the multi-crore DMF fraud uncovered by ED?
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Synopsis
The ED has launched extensive raids across Chhattisgarh in connection with a significant DMF fund fraud. This investigation highlights potential misappropriation involving several high-profile business figures, raising questions about the integrity of public funds allocated for agricultural development. Stay updated as this story develops.
Key Takeaways
- ED raided multiple locations in Chhattisgarh.
- Focus on DMF fund misappropriation.
- Prominent businessmen are implicated.
- Investigation linked to former Congress government.
- Continued scrutiny on high-profile individuals.
Raipur, Sep 3 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) initiated a new wave of raids early Wednesday across multiple districts in Chhattisgarh related to the extensive District Mineral Foundation (DMF) fund scandal.
These operations targeted the properties of various businessmen, vendors, and contractors in Raipur, Durg, Bhilai, and Bilaspur.
Sources reveal that searches were performed at the residence of notable agricultural entrepreneur Vinay Garg in Shankar Nagar, Raipur, and at Shivkumar Modi's residence in Durg.
Another significant site investigated was Villa No. 54 in Raipur, allegedly connected to agricultural equipment dealer Satpal Chhabra, who has business operations in both Chhattisgarh and Odisha.
In total, the ED is examining around 18 locations associated with vendors, contractors, and intermediaries believed to be implicated in the suspected misuse of DMF funds.
The central agency suspects that a substantial amount of the fund—amounting to hundreds of crores—was misappropriated through fraudulent provisions of agricultural supplies such as pesticides, seeds, and equipment.
This alleged fraud was funneled through the Chhattisgarh Beej Nigam during the period of the previous Congress government.
Business figures, including Garg, are thought to have provided agricultural supplies in districts such as Korba and Janjgir-Champa under projects funded by the DMF.
The investigation is tied to the detention of senior IAS officer Ranu Shahu, who was arrested earlier for involvement in the same scandal.
Shahu, along with other suspects, is accused of enabling the misdirection of DMF funds intended for the welfare and development of mining-impacted regions.
An ED team consisting of 8-10 officials is performing these searches, which are projected to continue throughout the day.
As of now, the agency has not released a formal statement regarding the recent activities. However, sources suggest that more prominent individuals may soon come under scrutiny as the investigation unfolds.
Point of View
It is crucial to ensure accountability in public funds, especially those aimed at supporting agricultural sectors. The ongoing investigation by the ED into the DMF fraud reflects a need for transparency and integrity in governance. The public must remain vigilant and informed, supporting measures that uphold the welfare of mining-affected communities.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the ED's raids in Chhattisgarh?
The raids were initiated due to suspicions of a multi-crore scam involving the misappropriation of District Mineral Foundation funds, intended for agricultural development.
Who are the main individuals involved in this case?
Key figures include agricultural businessman Vinay Garg, Shivkumar Modi, and IAS officer Ranu Shahu, who has already been arrested in connection with the fraud.
How much money is believed to have been misappropriated?
The estimated amount involved in the misappropriation runs into hundreds of crores.
What types of fraud are being investigated?
The investigation centers around the fraudulent supply of agricultural materials such as pesticides, seeds, and equipment.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The ED continues its search operations, with further high-profile names potentially under investigation as more details emerge.
