ED releases details of raids on former minister Sunder Sham Arora's premises

The Enforcement Directorate has shared details of the search operation conducted at 14 locations linked to former Punjab minister Sunder Sham Arora, his family and business partners. According to the investigative agency, digital devices, mobile phones and crucial property-related documents were recovered during this action, while several bank lockers were also sealed.

According to the statement issued by the ED, these raids were conducted on November 2 and 3 in Hoshiarpur, Chandigarh and Mohali. During this, Sunder Sham Arora's residence in Hoshiarpur, Shivam Hospital and offices of several real estate companies were inspected.

The investigative agency alleges that while serving as the industries minister from March 2017 to September 2021, Arora directly influenced the management of the Punjab Small Industries and Export Corporation to benefit selected private firms. The agency alleged that in return, stakes were acquired in real estate companies in the name of the former minister's son, Prateek Arora.

According to the agency, plot number A-32 in Phase-8, Mohali, was sold to GRG Developers through an auction, but the corporation's due amount was not paid in full. This land was subdivided and sold further without the required approvals. Apart from this, multi-million rupee transactions between Gulmohar Township and other firms are also being investigated.

On the other hand, former minister Sunder Sham Arora has denied the allegations leveled against him. He said that he has already handed over all details and documents to the investigative agency and is ready to provide all kinds of information in the probe ahead as well.

This action has been taken on the basis of a case registered by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau under charges of disproportionate assets. Nothing has yet been proved in court.

Key developments

• ED released details of raids at 14 locations linked to Sunder Sham Arora.
• Mobile phones, digital devices and property documents seized, bank lockers frozen during searches.
• Agency mentioned alleged irregularities worth crores in the allotment of industrial plots in Mohali.
• Former minister denied allegations, stating he is already cooperating with the probe.