ED Arrests Sonipat MLA in Major Illegal Mining Scam

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested Surender Panwar, MLA of Sonipat, for allegedly being involved in an illegal mining scam. Following extensive searches and seizures, the agency unveiled a widespread network implicated in environmental and financial crimes. The arrest signals a tough stance against corruption in Haryana.

In a significant development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested Surender Panwar, the MLA from Sonipat, in connection with an alleged illegal mining case, official sources revealed. The lawmaker was taken into custody last night following a thorough investigation that exposed his supposed involvement in the illegal mining scam.

The ED team has seized crucial documents and evidence, showcasing the MLA's role in the alleged illicit activity. This arrest aims to send a strong message to corrupt officials and reinforces the agency's commitment to eradicating corruption. The investigation and arrest of Surender Panwar have sent shockwaves through the political and business circles in Haryana, with many more arrests anticipated in the coming days.

ED's move follows multiple search operations conducted earlier this month at various locations in Haryana and Delhi related to illegal mining in Dadam, Haryana. The raids took place under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, at the premises of mining firm Govardhan Mines and Minerals. Incriminating documents, digital devices, cash of Rs 5 lakh, and a BMW car worth Rs 1.50 crore were seized, and the company's bank account holding Rs 41 lakh was frozen.

Investigations began based on a complaint filed by the Regional Officer of the Haryana State Pollution Control Board, Bhiwani, against Govardhan Mines and Minerals for violating Environmental Clearance conditions under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Police FIRs revealed the firm's involvement in large-scale illegal mining in the Dadam area, causing significant environmental damage and financial loss to the state.

The ED has disclosed that the unscientific mining activities led to five fatalities due to slope instabilities. The key figure, Vedpal Singh Tanwar, was found to have secured mining rights illegally and profited Rs 56 crore from illegal mining. Tanwar and seized materials suggest a broader network of illicit activities involving money laundering, tax evasion, and luxury asset acquisitions.

The illegal mining case underlines the rampant corruption and cronyism in Haryana's mining sector, causing environmental degradation and depriving the state of substantial revenue.

(With inputs from agencies.)