ED Jammu Attaches Hotels in Patnitop Worth Rs. 14.93 Crore in PMLA Case
(Judicial Quest News Network)
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has provisionally attached two hotels, Hotel Trinetra Resorts and Hotel Green Orchid, located in Patnitop, Jammu & Kashmir, valued at approximately Rs. 14.93 Crore. The action was taken in connection with an ongoing investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, stemming from a case involving the Patnitop Development Authority (PDA).
The ED’s investigation follows the registration of an FIR by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Jammu, which accused various owners and directors of hotels, guest houses, resorts, cottages, and residences in the Patnitop area. The charges also implicated PDA officials. The investigation highlighted irregularities such as the commercial use of residential buildings, unauthorized construction beyond approved limits, and operations in restricted zones, including dense forests, agricultural land, and residential areas. These violations occurred with the oversight and apparent complicity of PDA officials.
The ED’s probe uncovered that both Hotel Trinetra Resorts and Hotel Green Orchid had exceeded the construction limits set by the PDA. Additionally, both establishments had illegally encroached upon land and engaged in construction activities beyond the permitted areas. The illegally obtained land and the revenue generated from it have been identified as Proceeds of Crime, leading to their attachment by the Enforcement Directorate.
The investigation is ongoing, with further developments expected.
