ED sources told the reporter that Chhoker made an unsuccessful attempt to flee the scene before he was apprehended in a dramatic turn of events.
The ED is investigating the companies involved, including Sai Aaina Farms Private Limited and another firm called Mahira Homes, for cheating, fraud, and misappropriation of funds. Around 1,500 people had invested in these companies hoping to secure residential flats under the Deen Dayal Awas Yojana scheme.
The money, about ₹500 crore, was allegedly diverted, prompting the ED to register a money laundering case the former MLA, his son Sikandar Singh Chhoker (who was taken into custody on April 30).
Both Dharam Singh and Sikandar repeatedly ignored ED summons for questioning. After many failed attempts, the Punjab and Haryana High Court issued a non-bailable warrant against the father, which the latter did not comply.
Just like the dramatic arrest of Dharam Singh at the Shangri-La, Sikandar was nabbed at Haridwar just when he was getting ready for a holy dip in the Ganges to be followed by some religious rituals. .
Dharam Singh Chhoker is considered to be an influential figure in state politics. He is also believed to be a close associate of senior Congress leader and former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda.
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(Edited by : Sriram Iyer)
First Published: May 5, 2025 10:39 AM IST
