On September 12, 2023, the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) conducted a series of search operations involving multiple bank lockers associated with individuals embroiled in the Jal Jeevan Mission Case in Jaipur, Rajasthan. These operations were carried out in accordance with the provisions outlined in the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA).
The genesis of this investigation can be traced back to the filing of a First Information Report (FIR) by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) in Rajasthan. The FIR implicated certain individual contractors, most notably Padamchand Jain and others, in a Jal Jeevan Mission scheme involving the bribery of public servants. The alleged objectives of these corrupt activities included securing illicit protection, manipulating the tendering process, gaining approval for bills, and concealing irregularities associated with contracts entered into with the Public Health and Engineering Department (PHED).
During the meticulously executed search operations conducted on September 12, 2023, law enforcement authorities made significant discoveries. A staggering 9.635 kilograms of gold, with an estimated value of Rs. 5.83 Crore, along with 6.349 kilograms of silver valued at approximately Rs. 3.90 Lakh, were seized. This development brings the total value of assets seized in connection with this case to an astonishing Rs. 8.82 Crore, which includes both gold and silver assets valued at Rs. 6.50 Crore. It is important to note that this is an ongoing investigation, with further inquiries and procedures yet to unfold.
