The Indian Enforcement Directorate (ED) cracked down in a money laundering case involving Jharkhand minister Alamgir Alam. Following the recovery of over ₹35 crore in cash, the agency arrested Alamgir today.
Background
The investigation began when the ED seized ₹35.23 crore from the residence of Alamgir’s personal secretary, Sanjeev Lal, and his domestic help, Jahangir Alam. The recovered amount primarily consisted of commissions rather than legitimate bids for rural road construction.
The Arrest
Alamgir Alam, who serves as the minister for rural development in Jharkhand, was taken into custody after the ED expressed dissatisfaction with his responses during questioning. Sanjeev Lal, who assisted with Alam’s household chores, was also arrested in connection with the case.
Details of the Seizure
The ED conducted raids at multiple locations, including Jahangir Alam’s house near Ranchi Hill. During these operations, they retrieved the substantial sum of cash. Jahangir Alam reportedly acknowledged that he held custodianship over “commission and bribe-acquired money,” for which he received approximately ₹15,000 per month, according to the Hindustan Times.
Additionally, the ED confiscated ₹2.93 crore from the property of Sanjeev’s wife’s construction company partner, builder Munna Singh, and ₹10 lakh from Sanjeev’s residence. Despite Sanjeev initially denying ownership of the money found at Jahangir’s apartment, the agency detained him based on credible evidence and Jahangir’s testimony.
Other Findings
During the operation, the ED also seized various documents related to the transfer and posting of officials. These records included recommendations for bureaucrats made by Rajesh Thakur, the president of the Jharkhand Pradesh Congress. Additionally, a letter from the state’s Chief Secretary requesting an FIR citing irregularities in the Rural Development Department was also part of the evidence.
