Political Drama Unfolds in Jharkhand's Water and Sanitation Scandal

The Enforcement Directorate conducted raids in Jharkhand related to a money laundering case involving senior officials and politicians. These actions are linked to the Jal Jeevan Mission program. Allegations include a 10% illegal commission from water and sanitation projects, with wide political implications amid upcoming assembly elections.

In a dramatic turn of events in Jharkhand, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) launched raids targeting senior government officials and individuals linked to a minister amidst a high-stakes money laundering probe. This operation, spanning 23 locations, is part of investigating irregularities in the water and sanitation department.

The ED's focus is reportedly on the Jal Jeevan Mission, a central government scheme. Accusations of a 10% illegal commission on projects have surfaced, allegedly involving collaboration between bureaucrats, ministers, and contractors in a widespread corruption network. The raids come at a politically sensitive time with elections approaching.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren and others have criticized the ED's actions as politically motivated, claiming they are pressure tactics by the BJP. The minister under scrutiny, Mithilesh Kumar Thakur, insists he will resist any pressure to join the BJP, while demanding transparency about findings from his and associates' premises.

(With inputs from agencies.)