The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has carried out searches at multiple locations associated with Himachal Pradesh’s Drug Controller Nishant Sareen, resulting in the seizure of assets worth several crores. The raid, conducted amid ongoing investigations into allegations of bribery and accumulation of disproportionate assets, marks a significant development in a growing crackdown on corruption within regulatory bodies.
Raids Across Multiple Locations
According to officials, ED teams executed the raids based on intelligence and evidence gathered during a preliminary inquiry. Properties in Shimla and other adjoining areas connected to Sareen were searched. Officials reportedly discovered unaccounted cash, luxury vehicles, and property documents, as well as gold and investment papers pointing to illicit financial gains.
Sources revealed that the raids uncovered evidence suggesting that Sareen allegedly accepted bribes in return for granting drug licenses and facilitating pharmaceutical approvals in the state.
The ED’s investigation is believed to be part of a wider effort targeting corrupt practices within regulatory agencies, particularly concerning pharmaceutical and narcotics licensing.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Action
The agency has initiated proceedings under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) after receiving inputs from other central agencies and whistleblower complaints. While Sareen has yet to be formally arrested, officials indicated that the material gathered during the raids will be crucial in building the prosecution’s case.
The searches have also led to the identification of shell companies and benami properties allegedly linked to Sareen and his close associates. ED officials are now coordinating with the Income Tax Department and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for further corroboration and action.
A senior ED official stated that this operation aims to send a strong message regarding transparency and accountability in public offices. The agency may summon Sareen for questioning in the coming days.
About the Author – Anirudh Mittal is a B.Sc. LL.B. (Hons.) student at National Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar, with a keen interest in corporate law and tech-driven legal change.