CBI searches on Gehlot’s brother premises in Jodhpur, 2 other states | Jaipur News
In its FIR, the CBI had alleged that subsidised fertilisers meant for farmers were exported to other countries, causing a loss of Rs 52.8 crore (approx) to the exchequer. It had registered a case against 15 accused, including private companies based in Gujarat, Rajasthan, West Bengal, etc., and its directors, proprietors, partners and unknown others on these allegations.
The raids have come amid nationwide protests by Congress over ED grilling of Rahul Gandhi in a money laundering case linked to the National Herald newspaper case.
“At least 65 CBI officials carried out searches at 17 different locations in Rajasthan, Gujarat and West Bengal since Friday morning in connection with the case. A team comprising 10 CBI officers raided the house of Agrasen Gehlot at Mandore in Jodhpur.
Agrasen, the elder brother of CM Ashok Gehlot, is the proprietor of M/S Anupam Krishi, Jodhpur,” said a CBI officer on condition of anonymity.
Speaking to TOI, Vikas Bhalla, Agrasen’s counsel in the Rajasthan High Court, said, “We have been cooperating with ED in this matter. He has always responded to the summons.”
“We have been cooperating with ED in this matter. He has always responded to the summons.”
Senior officers did not disclose details of seizures made during the raids, but maintained that they would expand search operations if they find any new evidence or material.
According to CBI sources, the case is related to the alleged corruption in the import of muriate of potash (MoP), also known as potassium chloride, which was to be given to farmers at around 80% subsidy offered by the government. In the FIR, it was alleged that the imported MoP was repackaged as industrial salt, fluorspar, and exported to Southeast Asian countries, Saudi Arabia and other markets.
It was also alleged that the subsidy offered by the government was claimed by the accused through sham transactions.
