BJD MLA depose before Enforcement Directorate in connection mining irregularities

BY AKSHAYA KUMAR SAHOO

BHUBANESWAR, JAN. 20: Odisha’s ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MLA from Talcher, Braja Kishore Pradhan on Friday appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a mining case.

According to sources, BJD MLA Braja Kishore Pradhan reached the ED office at around 1.30 pm to record his statement in connection with his alleged involvement in illegal mining activities in Talcher area.

Sources said Pradhan has gained huge profit from illegal mining business for which ED has summoned him for interrogation.

He has allegedly derived undue pecuniary advantage by way of illegal mining without necessary statutory approvals.

The central investigating agency had earlier quizzed mines owner and former Champua MLA Jitu Patnaik over money laundering charges. Sources claimed that Pradhan has been summoned by ED for having business links with Jitu Patnaik.

The ED may record his statement under Section 17 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002, sources added.

Till reports last came, Pradhan was in the office of the ED and questioning was on.