ED raids multiple locations in Bengal, Jharkhand over illegal infiltration

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted extensive raids on Tuesday across several sites in Jharkhand and West Bengal, focusing on money laundering activities linked to suspected illegal entry of Bangladeshi nationals. According to sources within the federal agency, the probe centers around 17 locations in these neighboring states, with investigations currently based in ED’s Jharkhand office.

These operations come in response to growing concerns over alleged cross-border trafficking and infiltration. In September, the ED initiated an investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), aiming to uncover an organized network involved in the trafficking of Bangladeshi nationals, particularly women, into Jharkhand. The agency is also scrutinizing the funds generated from such activities, as it suspects that these operations have fueled a money laundering network.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior BJP leaders have raised concerns regarding these issues during recent election campaigns, alleging that state policies have enabled cross-border infiltration, particularly affecting the demographic balance in the tribal-dominated regions of Santhal Pargana and Kolhan. These accusations have stirred public interest, with some political figures arguing that such infiltration disrupts the social fabric and impacts local resources.

The Assembly elections in Jharkhand are taking place amidst these heightened concerns, with 43 constituencies scheduled to vote on Wednesday, followed by polling for 38 seats on November 20. The elections are expected to be contentious, with security and demographic stability taking center stage in political debates.

The ED's actions are based on an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) registered under PMLA sections, following an FIR filed by the Jharkhand Police at the Bariyatu police station in Ranchi in June. This FIR reportedly contained details on trafficking routes and suspected financiers, leading the ED to expand its investigation into potential cross-border links and money laundering operations.