Assets worth crores, lavish lifestyle of BJD leader Raja Chakra unearthed during EOW raids

Officials of the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) have unearthed assets worth crores allegedly linked to BJD leader Raja Chakra and his lavish lifestyle while conducting raids on his properties at various places across Odisha for the last two days. 

The officials found the stunning development while intensifying their probe into the alleged financial misconduct linked to Chakra. This probe focuses on an alleged multi-crore scam involving the Keonjhar Gandhamardan Loading Agency and Transport Cooperative Society.

Luxurious Assets Discovered

During their raids, EOW officials reportedly uncovered a Harley Davidson motorcycle worth Rs 25 lakh, a Luxury SUV, and a fleet of 18-wheeler trucks at his expansive farmhouse. His apparent wealth includes several properties, some of which are suspected to be benami, or proxies. The properties, found across different locations, suggest a portfolio including both named and benami (undisclosed) assets. The farmhouse in question spans over 10 acres of forest land, boasting luxury cottages with imported furnishings. It features imported décor, cottages reminiscent of five-star hotels, ponds, parks, and stone sculptures.

Investigation and Seizures

The EOW team seized several vehicles used for mineral transportation and identified bank accounts suggesting potential financial misconduct involving Chakra and other notable politicians. There are allegations of record manipulation aimed at deceiving authorities, implicating several BJD leaders in the process.

The scrutiny has extended to Koida in Sundargarh, where the EOW has seized 10 more high-end trucks, further implicating Chakra in dubious ownership claims. Allegations of financial malpractice have long surrounded the Gandhamardan Loading Agency, with accusations of creating fraudulent documents persisting over the years.

"During the tenure of the previous government, illegal activities were done by violating the Supreme Court order. There is nothing to be astonished that such a person was leading a lavish life by looting crores of rupees from common people. The then Forest Committee authorities must have knowledge about it and they must have helped him at that time," said Keonjhar MP Ananta Nayak.

"During the BJD tenure, he was indulged in many illegal activities. More illegal properties could be unearthed after more raids," said Koida block Chairman Suresh Nayak.

Must Read: EOW, STF raid BJD leader Raja Chakra's properties in Keonjhar amid large-scale fraud allegation

As the inquiry stretches across six districts, around 200 bank accounts with ties to Chakra are being examined, indicating potential connections with other influential BJD figures. Observers suggest that more names may emerge as the investigation continues.

In collaboration with the Special Task Force (STF), the EOW is thoroughly investigating these financial activities. As their investigation continues, officials have not dismissed the possibility of summoning additional leaders in relation to this case.

Public interest remains high

As of now, no official statement has been issued by Chakra concerning these developments.

The investigation has sparked widespread interest due to Chakradhar's standing in the BJD and the potential implications for the party, which holds a significant position in Odisha's political landscape.

Authorities, including the Economic Offences Wing (EOW), have yet to clarify the specifics of the allegations, but public interest remains high as the investigation progresses.

"More investigation and raids should be conducted on properties linked with Chakra to unearth more illegal and fraudlent activities," said Rabi Narayan Mohanty, a resident of Keonjhar.