The Enforcement Directorate recently submitted before a Special Court that Haryana Congress MLA Surender Panwar was part of an illegal mining syndicate that had generated illicit funds worth Rs. 26 crore.
During the hearing for ED custody of Panwar, officials shared details of their ongoing probe into rampant illegal mining activities in Yamunanagar. They stated that Panwar and his family members held significant stakes in multiple companies that were allegedly engaged in unauthorized extraction of natural resources.
Citing records of shareholding and financial transactions provided by Panwar himself, the ED argued he had benefited economically due to his involvement in the unlawful operations. It was also noted no formal agreements were made for substantial loans given between the entities.
The court was told police complaints had linked certain firms to tax offenses, forgery and deception in extraction works. After examining the finances, the ED assessment is that over Rs. 26 crore in illegitimate earnings reached Panwar.
The legislator defended himself saying the funds circulated via his companies were loan repayments with no interest charged. However, as per ED’s statement to the judge, the absence of proper documentation for the transactions is an indicator of Panwar’s role in the mining syndicate under investigation.
Taking note of the evidence and arguments presented, the Special Judge granted nine days of ED custody to the MLA to aid further collation of material in the money laundering matter. The legality of operations and money flows associated will be thoroughly evaluated.
