Special Court Restores Benami Property Case Against NCP Minister Bhujbal
A special court in Mumbai has ordered the restoration of a 2021 benami property case against NCP minister Chhagan Bhujbal, his family members, and their firms. The case was initially quashed by the Bombay High Court on technical grounds but will now be heard on October 6.
Benami PropertyChhagan BhujbalIncome Tax DepartmentBombay High CourtMumbaiReal Estate MumbaiSep 16, 2025
In 2021, the I-T department initiated proceedings against Bhujbal, his family members, and their firms—Armstrong Infrastructure Pvt Ltd, Parvesh Constructions Pvt Ltd, and Devisha Constructions Pvt Ltd. The department alleged that these individuals and entities were involved in benami transactions during the financial years 2008-09 and 2010-11. The special court had initially issued summonses to the accused in November 2021.
The accused, including NCP minister Chhagan Bhujbal, his son Pankaj, and nephew Sameer, had challenged the I-T action at the Bombay High Court. The High Court quashed the case, citing a precedent set by a Supreme Court order. It was alleged that the benami assets were held by the three companies linked to them, including properties in Mumbai and the Girna Sugar Mills in Nashik.
Special Judge Satyanarayan Navander stated that the High Court had granted liberty to the prosecution to revive the proceeding if their review petition was allowed by the Supreme Court. This indicates that the proceeding was quashed only on the basis of the Supreme Court precedent and not on the merits of the case, the special court noted.
The restoration of the case highlights the ongoing scrutiny of benami transactions in India. Benami transactions, where property is held by one person on behalf of another for the purpose of concealing the identity of the real owner, are illegal under the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, 1988. The I-T department has been proactive in investigating and prosecuting such cases to curb money laundering and tax evasion.
The case against Bhujbal and his family members is a significant development in the fight against corruption and financial irregularities. It underscores the commitment of the judiciary and law enforcement agencies to ensure transparency and accountability in financial dealings.
As the case progresses, it will be closely watched by legal and political observers. The outcome could have broader implications for similar benami property cases and the enforcement of anti-corruption laws in India.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a benami property case?
A benami property case involves property that is held by one person on behalf of another to conceal the identity of the real owner. Such transactions are illegal under the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, 1988, and are often investigated by the Income Tax Department to curb money laundering and tax evasion.
Who is Chhagan Bhujbal?
Chhagan Bhujbal is an Indian politician and a member of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). He has served as a minister in the Maharashtra state government and has been involved in various political and legal controversies.
Why was the case initially quashed by the Bombay High Court?
The Bombay High Court quashed the benami property case against Chhagan Bhujbal and his family members on technical grounds, citing a precedent set by a Supreme Court order. The quashing was not based on the merits of the case.
What is the next step in the case?
The special MP/MLA court has ordered the restoration of the case and has scheduled the next hearing for October 6. The case will be heard to determine the merits of the allegations against Chhagan Bhujbal and his family members.
What are the implications of this case for anti-corruption efforts in India?
The restoration of the benami property case against Chhagan Bhujbal highlights the ongoing efforts of the judiciary and law enforcement agencies to combat corruption and financial irregularities. It underscores the commitment to transparency and accountability in financial dealings and could set a precedent for similar cases.
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