Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jan 5: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has provisionally attached assets worth Rs 2.85 crore, including flats, land, jewellery, and bank balances, belonging to former NHAI deputy general manager Prabhanshu Shekhar over allegations of corruption and money laundering during his tenure in Bihar from 2016 to 2022.

According to officials, Shekhar acquired these assets in his own name and in the names of family members by indulging in corrupt practices, including clearing inflated bills, manipulating measurement books, and overlooking the use of sub-standard construction materials by Ashoka Buildcon Limited. These actions generated significant proceeds of crime, which were deposited into bank accounts of his family and used for daily expenses. Cash proceeds were further invested in immovable properties, insurance policies, and gold and silver jewellery.

The ED action follows investigations under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, based on FIRs and charge-sheets filed by the CBI and Bihar’s Anti-Corruption Bureau, citing offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and the Indian Penal Code. The CBI charge-sheet revealed that Shekhar amassed disproportionate assets totaling Rs 4.07 crore during his posting.

Officials stated that the ED’s attachment includes flats and land in Bihar and Delhi, bank balances, investments, and valuables, aiming to prevent further misuse of illegally acquired assets.