ED Uncovers Rs 30 Crore Marriage Scheme Fraud in Madhya Pradesh: Former Official Arrested

Bhopal:

The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) in Bhopal executed extensive search operations on October 3 across seven different locations spanning Bhopal, Vidisha, Katni, and Chhatarpur districts in a significant operation targeting financial fraud.

These coordinated raids were conducted under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, focusing on Shobhit Tripathi, who previously served as CEO of Janpad Panchayat Sironj, along with several alleged collaborators, according to an official ED statement.

The comprehensive searches resulted in the discovery and seizure of numerous incriminating documents and digital devices. Additionally, authorities froze bank accounts and mutual funds valued at approximately Rs 21.7 lakh connected to Tripathi and his associates, the statement further detailed.

The ED investigation originated from a formal complaint registered by the Economic Offense Wing, Bhopal, invoking various sections of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, alongside provisions from the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.

Authorities have accused Tripathi of masterminding a substantial embezzlement scheme involving approximately Rs 30.18 crore from the Madhya Pradesh government's Marriage Assistance Scheme during the period between 2019 and November 2021.

This welfare initiative, specifically designed to provide financial support to families of registered construction workers, was allegedly manipulated by Tripathi in collaboration with data entry operators Yogendra Sharma and Hemant Sahu.

According to the ED's findings, the trio systematically created fraudulent documentation and uploaded falsified data to the government portal, facilitating the unauthorized transfer of funds to ineligible recipients.

These misappropriated funds were subsequently withdrawn in multiple smaller transactions through ATMs and strategically redirected into accounts belonging to Tripathi, members of his family, and various associated entities.

To disguise the illegal source of these funds, Tripathi reportedly channeled the proceeds through bank accounts of relatives and business connections, presenting them as legitimate income.

The laundered money was utilized for personal expenses, strategic investments in stock markets and mutual funds, and the purchase of immovable properties. This case highlights significant vulnerabilities within welfare schemes and emphasizes the necessity for stronger digital security measures, noted the official statement.

The ED's prompt action demonstrates its dedication to combating corruption and financial wrongdoing within public administration systems.

The investigation continues to progress, with authorities anticipating further revelations as they delve deeper into the complex network of transactions and beneficiaries involved in this elaborate scam.

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