Investigation – ED Conducts Fresh Raids in Bengal PDS Case
Investigation – The Enforcement Directorate carried out a new round of searches across several districts of West Bengal on Saturday, intensifying its investigation into an alleged money laundering operation linked to the Public Distribution System. Officials confirmed that multiple premises associated with traders, suppliers, and exporters were being examined as part of the ongoing probe.
Searches conducted across multiple districts
According to officials familiar with the operation, searches were underway at nearly nine locations spread across Kolkata, Burdwan, and Habra. These locations are believed to be connected with individuals and businesses suspected of involvement in the alleged irregularities. One of the premises reportedly linked to Niranjan Chandra Saha was also covered during the operation.
Authorities said the action is being taken under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, which allows the agency to trace and investigate proceeds of crime. This is part of a wider effort to identify financial trails and uncover how the alleged diversion of subsidized food grains was carried out.
Case rooted in earlier police complaint
The current investigation stems from a case registered in October 2020 by Basirhat police. The complaint was filed by a deputy commissioner of customs stationed at the Ghojadanga land customs point. It raised concerns over the suspected diversion of wheat that was meant to be distributed through the Public Distribution System for welfare purposes.
Based on that complaint, authorities began examining whether large quantities of wheat were being redirected away from the intended supply chain. Over time, the matter expanded into a larger financial investigation, eventually drawing the attention of central agencies.
Allegations of organized diversion network
Investigators believe the alleged scheme involved a coordinated effort among multiple actors, including suppliers, licensed distributors, dealers, and intermediaries. Wheat procured at subsidized rates is suspected to have been diverted and stored in undisclosed locations instead of reaching beneficiaries.
Officials claim that the diverted stock was later introduced into the open market or prepared for export. To avoid detection, the original packaging was allegedly tampered with. Markings associated with the Food Corporation of India and state authorities were reportedly removed or altered, and the grains were repackaged to appear as legitimate commercial stock.
This process, investigators suggest, helped conceal the origin of the wheat and enabled its sale outside the regulated distribution network.
Previous action and arrests
The latest searches are not the first enforcement action in the case. Earlier, the agency had conducted similar raids and made arrests, including that of former West Bengal food minister Jyoti Priya Mallick. Several others have also been taken into custody during different stages of the investigation.
Officials indicated that the ongoing searches are aimed at gathering further evidence, identifying financial links, and determining the extent of the alleged network. Documents, digital records, and other materials recovered during the raids are expected to play a key role in the next phase of the probe.
Political backdrop during election period
The developments come at a time when West Bengal is in the midst of its Assembly election schedule. The first phase of polling was held on April 23, with the second phase set for April 29.
While officials have not drawn any direct connection between the timing of the raids and the election process, the investigation has attracted public attention given its scale and the individuals involved.
Authorities have maintained that the probe is being carried out strictly on the basis of evidence and legal procedures. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses and more details emerge from the searches conducted.