Shiv Sena's Suraj Chavan Denied Bail in COVID-19 Relief Fund Misuse Case

A special PMLA court in Mumbai denied bail to Shiv Sena functionary Suraj Chavan in a money laundering case related to the distribution of substandard 'khichdi' to migrants during the COVID-19 pandemic. The court cited prima facie evidence of Chavan's involvement in generating and layering criminal proceeds.

A special PMLA court in Mumbai denied bail on Monday to Shiv Sena (UBT) functionary Suraj Chavan in a money laundering case connected to alleged irregularities in distributing 'khichdi' to migrants during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Special judge A C Daga noted substantial evidence suggesting that Chavan not only generated proceeds of crime but also layered them. According to the FIR, instead of distributing 300 grams of khichdi per packet, only 100 grams were provided, which involved deception of Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) officials.

The court emphasized that prima facie material indicates Chavan's involvement from the beginning to the end of the conspiracy. The Enforcement Directorate (ED), which arrested Chavan, continues its investigation into other suspects in the case. Chavan is accused of diverting Rs 1.25 crore and Rs 10 lakh into his bank account and that of his partnership firm, respectively.

(With inputs from agencies.)