Hemant Soren summoned by ED in illegal mining case
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate in an illegal mining case. Soren has been asked to appear before the central probe agency tomorrow, November 3.
The ED has already arrested Soren’s aide Pankaj Mishra in the case. On July 8, the probe agency also raided 18 locations in Jharkhand linked to Pankaj Mishra and his business associates.
The searches were launched after the ED filed a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) against Mishra and others in March, alleging that the former “illegally grabbed or amassed huge assets in his favour”. Proceeds of crime amounting to Rs 42 crore acquired by the accused Pankaj Mishra have been identified till date.
The PMLA Investigation revealed that Pankaj Mishra, who enjoys political clout, being the representative of Chief Minister Hemant Soren, MLA from Barhait, Sahebganj, Jharkhand, controls the illegal mining businesses as well as inland ferry services in Sahebganj and its adjoining areas through his accomplices, according to the agency.