Vigilance Arrests Dhoot for 221% Asset Disparity

Mohali : In a significant development following the Enforcement Directorate’s earlier investigation, the Vigilance Bureau has now arrested Dhoot in connection with a disproportionate assets case. Authorities have found that Dhoot owned property and assets 221% more than his known sources of income, triggering immediate legal action under anti-corruption laws.

The arrest was made after months of surveillance and a thorough investigation into Dhoot’s financial activities, bank records, and real estate holdings. According to Vigilance officials, Dhoot had failed to justify the steep rise in his wealth during the period under review. The bureau claims that there is concrete evidence showing acquisition of immovable and movable assets far exceeding his declared income.

Sources indicate that multiple properties in urban centers and rural areas were discovered under Dhoot’s name or that of close relatives and benami holders. Several luxury vehicles, high-end electronics, and large cash transactions were also traced back to him. The Vigilance Bureau confirmed that Dhoot could not produce satisfactory explanations for the origin of these assets.

Today, Dhoot will be presented in court, where the Vigilance team is expected to seek custodial remand for further interrogation. Authorities believe that this could unravel a wider nexus of corruption and financial misconduct involving other officials or associates. The case has now drawn public and political attention, especially since it follows recent ED actions on similar charges.

Legal experts say the 221% excess asset margin is substantial and significantly above the 100% benchmark usually considered serious in disproportionate asset cases. The bureau is likely to invoke provisions under the Prevention of Corruption Act, which could lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment.

Public reaction has been mixed, with many expressing outrage on social media, demanding stricter action against corrupt officials. Some political leaders have also called for an independent judicial inquiry to ensure transparency in the process.

This development underscores the tightening grip of investigative agencies on corruption and black money, as the government continues its stated commitment to zero tolerance for financial irregularities among public servants.