Realtor's Police Connections
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has brought to light alarming claims regarding arrested realtor Jay S Kamdar, suggesting he maintained close relationships with a number of Kolkata police officers. Notably,
Santanu Sinha Biswas, a Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) in Kolkata Police's Special Branch, is mentioned as being among these contacts. The ED's assertions include that Kamdar extended significant 'favours and expensive gifts' not only to these officers but also to their family members. This alleged patronage points towards a potentially compromised relationship between law enforcement and an individual now facing serious financial crime allegations. The court has remanded Kamdar to nine days of ED custody to facilitate further questioning concerning these purported connections and his alleged links with another figure, Biswajit Podder, also known as Sona Pappu.
Abuse of Influence
According to the ED, Jay S Kamdar allegedly possessed considerable sway over a segment of the police force, which he is accused of exploiting for personal advantage. This misuse of his influence purportedly extended to lodging complaints against unsuspecting individuals, particularly in land-related disputes. The agency's investigation suggests a pattern where Kamdar and his associates may have systematically and deliberately acquired immovable properties from their rightful owners through illicit methods. This alleged scheme is being examined in conjunction with international cross-border and domestic hawala transactions, which are reportedly being conducted via shell companies. The ED's findings, based on documents and digital evidence, paint a picture of premeditated criminal activity aimed at unlawfully seizing assets and manipulating legal processes.
Seized Assets and Proceeds of Crime
Recent searches conducted by the ED have yielded substantial seizures, underscoring the scale of the alleged financial malfeasance. A significant amount of cash, totaling Rs 1.47 crore, was confiscated. Alongside this, gold and silver jewelry valued at Rs 67.64 lakh were also found. The investigation also led to the seizure of an SUV and an unlicensed revolver, indicating a sophisticated operation. Furthermore, several land parcels and buildings have been identified as properties allegedly obtained through criminal activities. The ED asserts that the 'proceeds of crime' were generated through various illicit means, including extortion, property grabbing, and unauthorized construction, all allegedly orchestrated through entities controlled by Biswajit Podder and his associates, with Kamdar playing a key role.
