Bundles of cash flying in Punjab! Bags thrown out of window during ED raids

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday conducted raids at multiple locations in Punjab and Chandigarh as part of an investigation into alleged financial irregularities and a suspected land fraud case. One of the key searches was carried out at the residence of IT professional Nitin Gohal in Mohali’s Kharar area. Officials alleged that Gohal was linked to individuals associated with the office of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.

During the operation at a residential tower in Chajju Majra near Kharar, two bags allegedly containing cash were thrown from an upper floor of the building, according to officials and local sources. Residents reported seeing currency notes scattered near the premises, after which authorities were informed. ED personnel later recovered the bags and continued search operations at the site for several hours. A spokesperson for the Punjab government stated that approximately Rs 21 lakh in cash was recovered after a driver carrying the bag was intercepted.

The ED also carried out searches at locations in Chandigarh’s Sector 16, Patiala, Mohali and other areas linked to builders, real estate firms and associated individuals. Officials said the searches were being conducted under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act in connection with alleged irregularities involving land transactions, change of land use permissions and collection of funds from investors. The agency stated that several builders and real estate entities were under investigation in the case.

According to ED officials, Gohal was allegedly involved in helping certain builders who had defaulted on payments related to the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority and arranging political protection for them. Officials identified him as being linked to Rajbir Ghuman, Officer on Special Duty to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. The Punjab government, however, rejected claims that the individual had any close connection with the Chief Minister’s office and stated that photographs or public association did not establish official proximity.

The latest ED action comes amid a series of raids involving leaders and individuals linked to the ruling Aam Aadmi Party in Punjab. In recent weeks, searches were conducted at premises linked to Punjab minister Sanjeev Arora and Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Mittal in separate investigations related to financial and regulatory matters. Opposition leaders reacted sharply to the latest raids, while AAP leaders have earlier alleged that central agencies were being used to target opposition figures ahead of future elections.