ED raids 15 Kolkata locations in MassArt scam
Enforcement Directorate raids 15 locations in Kolkata, including former Minister Indranil Sen's premises, over MassArt financial irregularities.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) launched a massive crackdown in Kolkata on Tuesday, targeting 15 different premises linked to the MassArt (Mahanirban Road Mass Art) Society. The agency is investigating significant financial irregularities involving the society's 'Preview Shows' held during Durga Puja. Among the high-profile targets of these searches is former Minister Indranil Sen and his close associates.
Massive crackdown on MassArt irregularities
The coordinated raids began in the early hours of the morning. Acting under Section 17 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, the ED's Kolkata zonal office is working alongside local police and security forces to execute the search and seizure operations. This legal provision allows the agency to seize documents and assets suspected to be linked to the proceeds of crime.
The investigation focuses on how the MassArt Society managed its finances during its high-profile events. Officials indicate that the agency is conducting a meticulous examination of various documents and materials to track the movement and ultimate use of the funds involved in the case.
Allegations of public deception and personal gain
The core of the investigation revolves around allegations of widespread deception. According to official findings, the MassArt Society reportedly solicited massive amounts of money from the general public by falsely claiming to be a UNESCO-sponsored entity.
Instead of being used for the stated cultural or organizational purposes, investigators allege that these collected funds were diverted for personal enrichment. The ongoing ED action is a critical component of a larger probe into the alleged proceeds of crime stemming from the society's financial activities.