On Wednesday, July 31, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids at several locations linked to Himachal Pradesh Congress MLA R S Bali and Congress leader Dr Rajesh Sharma. These searches are part of an investigation into the alleged production of fake Ayushman Bharat ID cards, which has reportedly led to significant financial losses for the state.
The raids took place across multiple states, including Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Chandigarh, and Delhi. Among the locations searched were Fortis Hospital in Kangra, which is associated with Bali’s company, Himachal Healthcare Pvt Ltd., and Balaji Hospital in Kangra, linked to Sharma.
The ED teams, along with paramilitary personnel, began their searches early in the morning. They focused on examining electronic devices, such as desktops, at these facilities.
Responding to the raids, R S Bali posted a message on Facebook. He mentioned that he had been away with his family since July 29 for his son Riyan’s vacation and had just learned about the officials visiting his residence, Mazdoor Kutiyya.
Bali assured his supporters that he would return and cooperate fully with the investigation. He requested that his supporters in Nagrota Bagwan and other areas remain calm, emphasizing that facing such situations is a part of political life.
He stated, “I want to inform you that on 29 July, I went out for two days with my family during my son Riyan’s vacation, and I just learned that some officials came to my residence Mazdoor Kutiyya. I am returning with my family. We respect the investigation agencies and will fully cooperate with them. I request my Nagrota Bagwan family and everyone connected with us in the state not to worry. When you live a political life, you sometimes have to face such situations.”
The money laundering case that prompted the ED’s action originates from a First Information Report (FIR) filed by the Himachal Pradesh Vigilance Bureau in January 2023.
The FIR was lodged against Shri Banke Bihari Healthcare Hospital in Una district over allegations of fake Ayushman Bharat cards being produced there. This investigation aims to uncover the extent of the alleged fraud and recover the financial losses incurred.
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