Suraj Chavan of Shiv Sena Arrested in Maharashtra's 'Khichdi Scam.'

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Suraj Chavan, a close aide of Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray, in connection with the 'Khichdi scam' involving alleged irregularities in BMC contracts during the COVID period. Chavan faces money laundering charges, accused of wrongfully acquiring over Rs 1.35 crore. The ED claims political influence led to the awarding of contracts.

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In a significant development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has apprehended Suraj Chavan, a key member of Shiv Sena's youth wing and close associate of Aaditya Thackeray, in connection with the 'Khichdi scam' in Maharashtra. The alleged irregularities relate to contracts awarded by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) for supplying khichdi to migrants during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Chavan, arrested under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), is accused of securing a contract through his proximity to a senior political leader. The ED revealed that the BMC awarded a work order to Force One Multi Services due to Chavan's influence, without following any guidelines.

The investigation indicates that Rs 8.64 crore was transferred by the BMC to Force One Multi Services for khichdi supply, with proceeds of Rs 3.64 crore diverted, including Rs 1.25 crore to Chavan's account. The ED asserts that Chavan wrongfully acquired proceeds of crime totaling Rs 1.35 crore.

Contrary to the ED's claims, Chavan asserts innocence, denying any role in the Khichdi supply chain. The funds allegedly transferred to his accounts were purportedly presented as salary and personal loans, facilitated by forged appointment letters.

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Chavan's lawyer contends that knowing a politically influential person is not a crime, challenging the justification for the arrest and deeming it an abuse of due process. The defense argues that Chavan was not linked to the companies involved in the Khichdi contracts.

The ED seeks custody for eight days to further investigate the money trail and confront other individuals involved. The accused allegedly utilized the illicit funds to acquire residential and agricultural properties, prompting additional scrutiny under the PMLA.

The 'Khichdi Scam' unfolds as a complex web of political influence, financial irregularities, and alleged money laundering, casting a shadow on Shiv Sena's leadership. The ED's pursuit of justice underscores the need for transparency and accountability in public contracts.