Multi-Agency Raids Target Real Estate Trader in Punjab: Allegations of Land Fraud and Financial Irregularities
The Enforcement Directorate (ED), along with GST and Income Tax teams, conducted coordinated raids on Tuesday at several properties linked to a real estate trader operating in the Punjab-Chandigarh region. The action is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged land fraud and financial irregularities.
According to sources, the raids began early Tuesday morning at around 6 AM and continued through the day at multiple locations in Chandigarh, Mohali, Zirakpur, and nearby areas. One of the prominent locations searched was the Royal Oxford Street office situated on the Ambala-Zirakpur highway.
The ED also conducted a search operation at a residence in Chandigarh’s Sector-20 around 7 AM. The premises are linked to real estate businessman Praveen Kansal, also known as Rocky, who is associated with a housing project named Chandigarh Royal City in Zirakpur.
Officials are reportedly examining financial records, land-related documents, and transaction details connected to the case. Teams from different agencies simultaneously searched several premises as part of the coordinated operation.
The investigation stems from a complaint filed in 2023 by Pyare Lal Garg, a business partner of Kansal. In his complaint to the Vigilance Bureau, Garg alleged that he had invested in land at a prime location in New Chandigarh but was later defrauded after the ownership of the property was allegedly transferred illegally.
The complaint further claimed that former tehsildar Tarsem Lal played a role in facilitating the alleged fraud by misusing his official position and helping execute fake registry documents in favour of the accused.
Based on the complaint, the Vigilance Bureau registered a case under Sections 420 (cheating) and 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code. Sources said the matter was reopened in 2025 after revenue officials submitted reports indicating irregularities in the land transaction process.
So far, the Enforcement Directorate has not issued any official statement regarding the raids or any recoveries made during the searches. Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.
The real estate sector in Punjab has been under increased scrutiny in recent years due to several high-profile cases of alleged fraud and financial malpractices. This coordinated action by multiple agencies underscores the government's commitment to maintaining transparency and accountability in the industry.
