The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted search operations at 13 different locations in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, on March 1, as part of an investigation into the alleged District Mineral Fund (DMF) scam.
During the search, cash amounting to Rs 27 lakh was seized, alongside the recovery of additional evidence in the form of digital files and documents.
The ED's probe stems from three FIRs lodged by local law enforcement, which accuse DMF contractors of embezzling public funds in collusion with state government officials and political figures.
Established to support individuals affected by mining-related endeavors, the DMF, funded by mining companies, operates across all districts of Chhattisgarh. The investigation uncovered instances where contractors allegedly paid substantial commissions or illegal gratuities to officials and politicians, amounting to 25 to 40 percent of the contract value.
For the Korba district alone, the DMF fund has amassed over Rs 2,000 crore since its inception until FY 2022-23, with anticipated commission amounts ranging from Rs 500 to 600 crore. An ongoing analysis of statewide data and the quantification of proceeds of crime are currently underway, with further investigation ongoing.
