In a major crackdown on money laundering, the Enforcement Directorate’s Bhopal Zonal Office has provisionally attached movable and immovable properties worth approximately Rs 9.79 crore belonging to former Madhya Pradesh Health Services Director Dr. Amarnath Mittal and his wife Alka Mittal. This action falls under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, marking a significant step in curbing financial irregularities in public service.
The probe originated from an FIR filed by the Lokayukta, Bhopal, under Sections 13(1)(b) and 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (amended). Allegations center on Dr. Mittal amassing wealth far beyond his known sources of income during his tenure.
ED investigations revealed that during the relevant period, Dr. Mittal’s legitimate income stood at just around Rs 60 lakh. However, the value of assets acquired and expenditures incurred by him totaled nearly Rs 2.98 crore, leaving a staggering Rs 2.38 crore in disproportionate assets.
Scrutiny showed these assets were registered not only in his name but also under his wife Alka Mittal and the A.N. Mittal HUF (Hindu Undivided Family). This layering appears designed to obscure true ownership and legitimize proceeds of crime.
Further revelations included the use of undeclared cash, dubious bank deposits, and complex layered financial transactions in property purchases. Personal and household expenses lacked proper accounting, suggesting an attempt to blend illicit funds with legitimate earnings.
Notably, post-FIR in 2012, older properties were sold, and proceeds reinvested into new assets. ED asserts these sale proceeds remain tainted proceeds of crime, now covered under the attachment order.
The attached properties include long-term capital gain bonds and residential and agricultural lands in Bhopal and Raisen districts. Investigations continue as ED deepens its probe into this high-profile case, underscoring the agency’s resolve against corruption in government ranks.