SUBHASH MISHRA
Dhanbad, Jan 8: Dumri (Giridih) MLA and Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JLKM) leader Jairam Mahto on Thursday demanded a high-level investigation into alleged benami properties worth ₹40,000 crore linked to Dhanbad BJP MP Dhulu Mahto, citing a Supreme Court directive.
The MLA made the statement while in Dhanbad to appear before a local court in connection with a 2024 Lok Sabha-related case registered at Bokaro Steel City police station.
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‘Demand based on Supreme Court direction’
Jairam Mahto clarified that he was not making personal allegations but seeking a probe in accordance with directions issued by the Supreme Court on a PIL.
“The Supreme Court has directed the Jharkhand government, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Income Tax Department to investigate the assets of Dhanbad MP Dhulu Mahto,” he told reporters.
He said he had no personal enmity with the BJP MP and stressed that his demand was rooted in institutional accountability.
Firms, properties named
The Dumri MLA alleged that Dhulu Mahto, aged around 50, had accumulated benami assets running into thousands of crores. He claimed that an investigation would bring to light the role of firms and properties including Mundane Company, Priti Enterprises, Khemka Enterprises, Jagarnath Bhattha, Bharat Bhattha, Hanuman Mansion in Katras and Lehidumar.
He also alleged that scrutiny of the MP’s alleged associates—Rajesh, Chhunnu and Ganga—would expose further illegal assets. Jairam Mahto claimed that illegal collections were being made under the cover of a Ramrajya Temple in Katras.
Other demands
Replying to a separate query, the JLKM founder demanded that urban local body elections be held on a party basis and urged the state government to implement the PESA Act after proper review.
MP unavailable for comment
Despite repeated attempts, Dhanbad MP Dhulu Mahto could not be contacted for his response to the allegations.
