LUCKNOW: The government’s ongoing crackdown on corruption has once again been highlighted by the strict actions taken against former MLC Haji Iqbal in Uttar Pradesh. This case stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of law enforcement agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in ensuring justice and safeguarding public resources.
Haji Iqbal, a resident of Mirzapur, Saharanpur, had allegedly acquired properties and sugar mills at throwaway prices through fraudulent means. Investigations have revealed that these assets were not only bought under his name but also in the names of his relatives so that they could conceal the ownership. The ED has identified and seized illegal properties at approximately 63 locations, spanning Saharanpur, Noida, and Lucknow.
ED, Lucknow has provisionally attached immovable properties worth Rs. 995.75 Crore under the provisions of the PMLA, 2002, in connection with the fraudulent disinvestment of closed sugar mills in Uttar Pradesh. The attached properties include 03 closed sugar mills having open…
— ED (@dir_ed) February 27, 2025
Among the most significant actions recently taken, properties worth Rs 995 crore, including three sugar mills – M/s Malo Infratech Private Limited, M/s Dynamic Sugars Private Limited, and M/s Honeywell Sugars Private Limited – have been confiscated. These mills, located in Deoria’s Baitalpur, Bhatni, and Shahganj, were allegedly acquired at a highly undervalued price. The seizure of these properties marks a major step in ensuring that illegally accumulated wealth is not left unchecked.
The case against Haji Iqbal extends beyond the ED’s probe. The CBI is also investigating various cases against him and his family members, including his four sons and brother, former MLC Mahmood Ali. Multiple charges, including money laundering and fraudulent acquisition of government properties, have been registered. The coordinated action between agencies demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing corruption at all levels.
The government has not only acted against corrupt individuals but has also taken strict disciplinary measures against those in power who facilitated or ignored such activities. The dismissal of the former inspector of Mirzapur police station for bride and the suspension of a sub-inspector are major steps in ensuring that law enforcement remains impartial and free from corrupt influences.
