ED Raids Jammu, Seizes Key Documents in Custodian Land Grab Case

Enforcement Directorate (ED) has seized incriminating documents in a case of illegal land grabbing in Jammu. “Custodian land” refers to properties that belong to the government or evacuee (people who left during past conflicts) assets managed by the Custodian Department in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). These lands are meant for public use or specific purposes, like schools or roads, and cannot be taken or sold privately.

The case involves allegations that some people grabbed these valuable lands through fake papers and bribes. The ED, which investigates money laundering and economic crimes, stepped in after reports of a big scam. This seizure is part of their ongoing probe to uncover how the land was illegally taken and who profited from it.

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During recent raids, ED teams searched offices and homes in Jammu and found key documents that show evidence of wrongdoing. These include fake sale deeds, forged ownership papers, bank records of suspicious transactions, and emails or files proving bribes and deals. “Incriminating” means these papers can be used to prove crimes like fraud, forgery, and money laundering.

The seizure happened at locations linked to suspects, such as builders, officials, and middlemen. This evidence could link powerful people to the scam, showing how custodian lands worth crores were grabbed for private projects like housing or farms. It’s a big step forward in the investigation, as these documents will help build a strong case in court.

The case started with complaints to local police and anti-corruption bodies about illegal occupation of custodian lands in Jammu district. After initial probes, it was handed to the ED because it involved large sums of money being laundered. J&K has a history of land disputes due to its sensitive location, and custodian properties are protected under special laws to prevent misuse.

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This action by ED shows the central government’s determination to fight land mafias and corruption. Similar cases have been seen in other parts of India, but this one highlights issues in J&K where land is scarce and valuable. The probe may lead to arrests and recovery of grabbed properties for public use.

Land grabbing hurts everyone – it takes away resources meant for the public, like parks or affordable housing, and increases prices for common people. By seizing these documents, ED is working to restore justice and protect government assets. It also sends a warning to those involved in scams that no one is above the law.

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Local residents in Jammu hope this will clean up the system and make land dealings more transparent. The government has promised to speed up the investigation and return seized lands to rightful owners or uses.

ED will now analyze the seized documents and question key people involved. More raids could happen if new leads come up. The case will go to court, where evidence will be presented, and suspects could face fines, jail, or property attachments.