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Punjab:Sanjeev Arora has been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with an alleged money laundering case linked to financial irregularities and fake GST transactions. The action came after a lengthy search operation at the minister’s official residence in Sector-2, Chandigarh.
According to sources, a nearly 20-member ED team reached the residence early in the morning with multiple vehicles and carried out an extensive search operation. Officials reportedly examined financial documents, electronic devices, and transaction-related records during the raid.
Allegations of Fake GST Purchases and Financial Fraud
The ED has alleged that companies linked to Sanjeev Arora were involved in suspicious mobile phone trade transactions worth more than ₹100 crore.
Investigators claim fake GST purchase bills were allegedly used to obtain wrongful benefits including Input Tax Credit (ITC), GST refunds, and duty drawback claims. The agency also suspects illegal “round-tripping” of money between India and Dubai through export transactions, causing major losses to government revenue.
Simultaneous Raids in Delhi, Gurugram and Chandigarh
As part of the investigation, ED teams conducted coordinated raids at five locations across Delhi, Gurugram, and Chandigarh. The searches reportedly included offices of Hampton Sky Realty Limited and other premises linked to the minister and associated business entities.
Officials suspect that fake invoices were generated using several alleged shell companies operating from Delhi. These invoices were allegedly used to claim tax benefits and facilitate unlawful financial activities.
Third Major ED Action in Recent Months
Sources indicate that this is the third major ED operation linked to the minister and associated entities in recent months. Another raid had reportedly taken place less than a month ago, signaling intensified scrutiny by the central agency.
The repeated enforcement action has increased political and business tensions surrounding the case.
AAP Leadership Extends Support
Following the arrest, senior leaders of Arvind Kejriwal and Bhagwant Mann publicly backed the minister, indicating that the party continues to support him during the investigation.
Meanwhile, opposition parties have demanded greater transparency and accountability from the Punjab government over the allegations.
Political and Business Circles on Alert
The arrest has triggered significant reactions across Punjab’s political and business communities. Investigators are now expected to closely examine export records, company networks, and financial transactions connected to the case.
Further developments in court proceedings and the ED investigation are likely to determine the future course of one of Punjab’s most high-profile financial probes in recent times.
