The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is actively involved in conducting raids in several locations across Bihar and other states, as part of an investigation into liquor smuggling under the PMLA. The raids are taking place in Muzaffarpur, Gurugram, Naharlagun, Namsai, and Ranchi, targeting seven different sites. The focus of the ED’s investigation is on associates of Sunil Bhardwaj, who is believed to be a key figure in the illegal liquor trade. The ED teams initiated the raids on the morning of Wednesday, August 13th.
A raid was also carried out at the residence of Babita Devi, the head of the Bishanpur Baghanagri model panchayat in the Muzaffarnagar district. Babita Devi is known for her work and has been recognized with numerous awards, including one from the President. The ED’s investigation is focused on assets exceeding known income. The ED team is examining all relevant documents, including bank accounts, property deeds, and other financial records. Around 6 a.m. on Wednesday, a 20-member team from the ED arrived at Babita Devi’s home with a warrant and began the search. The raid has caused considerable commotion in Muzaffarnagar.
The raids are believed to be related to the illegal funds earned from the sale of illegal alcohol. Babita Devi’s husband, Bablu Mishra, and his brother already face several cases related to liquor smuggling. The ED team is scrutinizing documents, property registrations, bank accounts, and other financial transactions. Bablu Mishra and his brother were also questioned by the ED. Police are stationed outside the residence of the head, restricting access. The raid has taken everyone by surprise, and the incident has become the talk of the town. In the past, the ED has attached assets worth approximately 9.31 crore in this case. The current raids are an extension of the investigation. The ED’s actions are not limited to Bihar and are also taking place in Haryana, Arunachal Pradesh, and Jharkhand.