The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated a money laundering investigation against former Trinamool Congress (TMC) councillor Debraj Chakraborty, days after his arrest, as it probes assets allegedly worth nearly ₹1,300 crore and examines whether they are disproportionate to his known sources of income.
According to ED sources, the agency has registered an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) and begun scrutinising Chakraborty's financial dealings, business interests and properties linked to him.
Investigators are attempting to establish the origin of the alleged wealth and determine "whether it was acquired through illicit means."
The probe is also focused on allegations that some of the properties were routed through a company identified as DC Global. Officials are tracing the money trail to identify those who allegedly paid funds to Chakraborty and individuals who may have facilitated the transactions on his behalf.
ED sources said the investigation extends beyond Chakraborty's personal assets and will examine the alleged network behind the suspected financial operations.
"The probe will also examine the wider network involved in the alleged extortion operations and the end beneficiaries of the proceeds, including the possible involvement of other influential figures."
According to the agency, Chakraborty is facing multiple allegations, including extortion, land grabbing, operating syndicates and criminal intimidation. Investigators are also examining complaints related to financial irregularities and property transactions.
"The Central agency is also examining allegations that Chakraborty owns assets worth close to Rs 1,300 crore, which officials say appear disproportionate to his known sources of income."
The ED is expected to question Chakraborty further and may seek his custody as the investigation progresses.
Separately, Kolkata Police are set to produce Chakraborty before the Barasat court, where they are expected to seek 14 days of police custody.
Police had earlier initiated a probe against Chakraborty and his wife, former TMC MLA Aditi Munshi, over allegations of extortion, financial irregularities and misappropriation of property. The couple also faces allegations of possessing disproportionate assets, concealing wealth and involvement in money laundering.
According to police sources, complaints from local promoters and members of auto unions accuse Chakraborty of extorting money through associates. Officials said 10 FIRs have been registered against him based on these complaints.
While Munshi secured anticipatory bail from the Calcutta High Court, Chakraborty's plea was rejected. He has also previously been questioned by the CBI in connection with the alleged primary school recruitment scam.
