The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has made a significant move in the ongoing case of disproportionate assets against A. Raja, the former Union Cabinet Minister of Environment and Forest. In a recent development, ED has taken possession of 15 immovable properties that were allegedly owned by A. Raja through his Benami Company, M/s Kovai Shelters Promoters India Pvt Ltd. This action has been carried out under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA).
The attachment of these properties comes subsequent to the confirmation of the Provisional Attachment order by the authorities. It represents a crucial step in the investigation into allegations of disproportionate assets amassed by A. Raja during his tenure in public office.
“Benami properties, those held in the name of others to conceal the true ownership, have been a focus of anti-corruption efforts, as they can be used to hide ill-gotten wealth. In this case, ED’s action to seize these properties underscores the agency’s commitment to addressing financial misconduct and holding individuals accountable for alleged wrongdoing”.
The case against A. Raja has garnered attention due to its implications for transparency and accountability in public office. As legal proceedings continue, the ED’s actions to take possession of these properties serve as a reminder of the efforts being made to ensure that justice is upheld and that individuals in positions of authority are held to the highest ethical standards.
