The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted a raid at the premises of Municipal Corporation contractor Amit Bajaj in New Jawahar Nagar, Jalandhar, on Monday morning. The operation is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged financial irregularities.
Bajaj Brothers' Contracting Empire
Amit Bajaj, along with his brother, has been a major contractor for the Municipal Corporation and other government departments. Their operations extend beyond Jalandhar to Ludhiana, Mohali, and even other states such as Gujarat. They are also reportedly involved in running societies for outsourcing manpower.
Political Connections Under Scrutiny
Sources indicate that Bajaj had funded several programmes of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and provided financial support during elections. He was considered close to the party's top leadership and often attended its meetings. Prior to the AAP government coming to power in Punjab, the Bajaj brothers were reportedly close to leaders of previous ruling parties. Former Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal is said to have visited their residence ahead of elections. They also maintained ties with Congress leaders during the previous regime.
The ED raid is seen as part of a broader crackdown on corruption and money laundering involving contractors with political links. Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.
