Did a business associate of Bhopal’s Machhli family approach NHRC member?
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Synopsis
In a startling revelation, NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo accuses a man claiming to represent the controversial Machhli family of Bhopal of attempting to contact him. The allegations against the family involve serious crimes, including drug trafficking and coercive conversions. This incident highlights the ongoing investigation into the Machhli family's alleged illegal activities.
Key Takeaways
- The NHRC member reported an approach by a person linked to the Machhli family.
- Serious allegations against the Machhli family include drug trafficking and coercive conversions.
- The Bhopal Crime Branch is actively investigating the family's activities.
- Authorities have taken action against illegal properties owned by the Machhli family.
- This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding organized crime in Bhopal.
Bhopal, Sep 3 (NationPress) National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) member Priyank Kanoongo claimed on Wednesday that an individual who identified himself as a business associate of the notorious Machhli family from Bhopal approached him at his residence in New Delhi.
According to Kanoongo, the man, who introduced himself as Jainendra Pathak, asserted he was a real estate partner of Sharik Machhli. Pathak allegedly stated he was representing the Machhli family, which is embroiled in serious allegations such as drug trafficking, money laundering, and purported involvement in coercive religious conversions.
“He offered me sweets he had brought, but I reprimanded him and asked him to leave. I have lodged a formal complaint, and as a result, Delhi Police apprehended the individual,” Kanoongo shared on X.
In the same post, he revealed that the Bhopal Crime Branch has launched inquiries into Sharik Machhli and other family members concerning their alleged participation in the narcotics trade and the exploitation of Hindu women through forced conversions.
“There will be no leniency. The Madhya Pradesh Police will pursue the investigation with utmost rigor and integrity,” his post in Hindi stated.
Recently, nearly a dozen members of the extended Machhli family have been charged with various offenses, leading to several arrests. The investigation is spearheaded by Bhopal’s Crime Branch.
On August 21, the Bhopal district administration demolished a luxurious bungalow owned by the Machhli family, citing illegal construction on government property. Numerous properties and encroached lands linked to the family have also been confiscated in recent weeks.
This crackdown follows the arrests in July of Shahwar Machhli and his nephew Yasin (also known as Yaseen) Machhli, both accused of being pivotal figures in a drug syndicate allegedly operating throughout Madhya Pradesh.
Hailing from Budhwara, an ancient locality in Bhopal, the Machhli family originally started as fish brokers before transitioning to Hathaikheda in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Over the years, they reportedly developed connections with local politicians and influential figures, allegedly offering protection for their growing illegal activities. Their ventures eventually expanded into fish farming, illegal mining, land grabbing, and by the late 1990s, narcotics and arms smuggling.
Point of View
It's crucial to approach this developing story with a balanced perspective. The allegations against the Machhli family are severe and merit thorough investigation by law enforcement. As the situation unfolds, our commitment to reporting accurately and impartially remains unwavering. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What allegations are being made against the Machhli family?
The Machhli family is facing serious allegations including drug trafficking, money laundering, and involvement in coercive religious conversions.
Who approached the NHRC member?
A man named Jainendra Pathak, claiming to be a business associate of the Machhli family, approached NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo.
What action did Priyank Kanoongo take?
Kanoongo filed a formal complaint after the approach, leading to the detention of the individual by Delhi Police.
What is being done about the Machhli family's illegal activities?
The Bhopal Crime Branch is investigating the family, and the Madhya Pradesh Police have promised a strict inquiry.
What happened to the Machhli family's properties?
Recently, the Bhopal district administration demolished a luxury bungalow associated with the family for illegal construction and has confiscated several of their properties.
