Bihar Executive Engineer's Premises Raided, Rs 50 Lakh Cash Seized

Inspectors from the Economic Offences Unit (EOU) in Bihar's police force have unearthed approximately Rs 50 lakh in cash during a search at properties associated with an executive engineer in the state's Planning and Development Department. Who is currently under scrutiny for a disproportionate assets case.

The discovery was made in Muzaffarpur, where the cash is being carefully counted using a machine under the supervision of Inspector General Manavjeet Singh Dhillon, who confirmed that the case was registered based on information received from a "reliable source" regarding assets allegedly acquired by Narad Kumar Das beyond his known sources of income. This development comes after the EOU registered a case against Das on October 7 under Section 13(2) and 13(1)(b) of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

According to DIG Dhillon, prima facie evidence has been found of Rs 83,53,200 in assets allegedly acquired beyond his known legitimate sources of income. This is approximately 64.93 per cent above his known income, raising serious concerns about the executive engineer's financial dealings.

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The discovery has sparked widespread interest, with many speculating about the possible sources of the funds and the implications for Das's career.

The EOU obtained search warrants from the Special Court. Vigilance, Patna, and separate teams began searches at five locations in Bhagalpur, Munger, Patna and Muzaffarpur on Thursday morning. The locations include Das’s residences in Bhagalpur and Patna.

A flat in Muzaffarpur, and a location in Munger, along with the government office of the Local Area Engineering Organisation, Works Division in Munger. The searches were still underway, with the EOU sharing that more seizures could be made during the operation.

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As the investigation continues, officials are working to understand the full extent of Das's assets and the sources of the funds seized. The Bihar government has also been asked to provide information about Das's financial dealings and any possible connections to other individuals or entities.

The case is being closely monitored by the authorities, with many expecting further developments in the coming days.

The disproportionate assets case against Narad Kumar Das has significant implications for the state government and the Planning and Development Department. If found guilty, Das could face serious consequences, including possible dismissal from service and prosecution under the Corruption Act. The case also raises questions about the accountability of government officials and the need for greater transparency in financial dealings.