ED Uncovers Large Cash Stash in Odisha Illegal Mining Raids

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has unearthed substantial amounts of cash, including currency notes found filling wardrobes, during widespread raids in Odisha's Ganjam district. The operations are part of an ongoing investigation into illegal mining activities. Premises linked to Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader and contractor Hrishikesh Padhi were among approximately 20 locations targeted, alongside residences of several traders in Berhampur. The raids focus on allegations of tax evasion, extensive financial irregularities, and a suspected nexus involving the sand mafia and political patronage. The probe originated from multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) against sand mafias accused of using fraudulent documents for illegal mineral extraction, a practice that the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) recently highlighted as a significant source of revenue loss in the district's riverbeds. The ED has not yet released official details regarding the precise amount or source of the seized cash, as the investigation continues.