ED Traces over Rs 55 crore in ration scam probe; Funds diverted through fake entities

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) probing the multi-crore ration distribution scam in West Bengal has uncovered the transfer of over Rs 55 crore linked to the alleged scam's proceeds. During the interrogation of Bakibur Rehman, a Kolkata-based businessman arrested in connection with the case, ED officials discovered that Rehman diverted funds through six fake institutions.

The withdrawn amount through these entities totals Rs 55 crore 50 lakh 77 thousand 550. The ED has identified the details of funds diverted through each of these fake entities, with the maximum amount of around Rs 14.13 crore being funneled through a textile and apparel business unit. Additionally, approximately Rs 23 crore was diverted through three fake corporate entities—Shree Hanuman Realcon Pvt Ltd, Gracious Innovative Pvt Ltd, and Gracious Creation Pvt Ltd.

According to Registrar of Companies (ROC) records, Shree Hanuman Realcon is currently dissolved, while the other two entities are shown as "In the process of Liquidation." A rice mill witnessed a fund diversion of Rs 10.31 crore, and a real estate promotion entity had a smaller diversion of just over Rs 3.10 crore. ED officials scrutinizing the bank accounts linked to these entities observed substantial transfers occurring within a matter of hours or minutes. Sources revealed that Rehman directly set up some of these units, while others were acquired and had family members, relatives, and close associates appointed as directors or partners.