CBI registers case against Gehlot’s brother, 14 others in fertilizer scam

New Delhi, June 17: The CBI has registered a corruption case against Agrasen Gehlot, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot’s brother, and 14 others related to the alleged diversion of subsidized fertilizers meant for farmers in 2007-09, and carried out searches at his Jodhpur home and 16 other locations in three states, officials said on Friday.
After registering the case on Wednesday evening, more than 60 officials of the CBI swooped down at over 15 locations in Gujarat, Rajasthan and West Bengal on Friday to carry out searches in connection with the case, they said.
It is alleged that the accused conspired with each other along with government and Indian Potash Ltd officials to export 24,003 MT (metric tonne) of Muriate of Potash, meant for distribution among farmers at a subsidized rates, to South East Asian countries, Saudi Arabia and other markets in the guise of industrial salt in violation of restrictions placed on its exports by the central government in 2007-09 causing a loss of Rs 52.8 crore to the government, officials said.
It is alleged that Agrasen Gehlot ran one of the accused dealership Anupam Krishi which purchased MOP from IPL and instead of supplying it to farmers at subsidized rates, sold it to other dealers who further sold it to export firms — Saraf Impex Pvt Ltd; M/s. Shivam Chemicals and M/s. Kailashpati Chemicals & Minerals and Industries.
The modus operandi was followed by other dealerships as well, they said, adding that the agency has booked 14 other dealers, traders and exporters involved in the illicit practice.
In order to avoid prying eyes of Customs and other agencies, the exporters repackaged MOP as feldspar powder also called industrial salt which was sent abroad packaged in high-density polythene bags. (PTI)