The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday conducted searches at multiple premises linked to Ganjam district BJD leader and contractor Hrushikesh Padhi as part of an investigation into allegations of disproportionate assets, officials said.
According to sources, three ED teams launched coordinated raids early in the morning at Padhi’s ancestral residence in Sheragada. Simultaneous searches were also carried out at his son’s house in Jayaprakash Nagar, Berhampur, while another operation was underway at a premises in the Gandhi Nagar area of Berhampur at the time of filing this report.
Hrushikesh Padhi currently serves as the vice-president of the Ganjam district unit of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD).
Disproportionate Assets Allegations
The searches are linked to allegations that Padhi amassed assets disproportionate to his known sources of income. A contractor by profession before entering active politics, Padhi reportedly expanded his business interests after assuming a senior organisational role within the BJD.
As per available information, Padhi is associated with multiple business ventures, including ownership of a petrol pump and a pipe showroom. Questions were raised over the rapid accumulation of substantial assets within a short period, prompting scrutiny and eventually leading to the ED’s action.
Security Tightened at Search Locations
Security arrangements were significantly strengthened at all raid sites. Armed police personnel were deployed, and entry into the premises was strictly restricted during the searches.
Police officials stationed outside the locations prevented entry of outsiders, including media personnel, and did not share any information regarding the proceedings. Authorities maintained that details would be disclosed only after the completion of the searches.
Further information is awaited as the investigation continues and the Enforcement Directorate proceeds with its action at the various locations linked to the BJD leader.
