17 July 2024

Jaipur, July 17, 2024 - The Directorate of Enforcement (ED), Jaipur Zonal Office, has taken a significant step in the investigation of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) scam by arresting Sanjay Badaya under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. The arrest, made on July 16, 2024, follows allegations of bribery and corruption involving public officials and contractors in the Public Health and Engineering Department (PHED).

The ED's actions were prompted by an FIR filed by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) in Jaipur, which implicated Padamchand Jain of M/s. Shree Shyam Tubewell Company, Mahesh Mittal of M/s. Shree Ganapati Tubewell Company, and others. According to the FIR, these individuals allegedly engaged in bribery to secure undue benefits such as tender awards, bill sanctions, and protection from legal scrutiny for projects executed under various PHED tenders.

During their investigation, the ED uncovered evidence suggesting that Padamchand Jain, Mahesh Mittal, and their associates used fraudulent work experience certificates, purportedly issued by IRCON, to obtain contracts from PHED. Sanjay Badaya, identified as a key facilitator in the scam, allegedly received bribes from these contractors to manipulate the tender process and influence PHED officials.

The ED's proactive measures have included extensive searches at more than 70 locations, resulting in the seizure of assets totaling Rs. 11.03 Crore. This amount includes significant quantities of gold and silver valued at Rs. 6.50 Crore.

Sanjay Badaya has been presented before the Hon’ble Special Court (PMLA), Jaipur, which has granted the ED custody for four days to further facilitate the investigation into his role and the broader conspiracy involving PHED officials and private contractors.

The ED's investigation into the Jal Jeevan Mission scam remains ongoing as they continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses connected to the case.