Three agencies—the Enforcement Directorate (ED), the Income Tax Department, and the Special Police Establishment (SPE) of the Madhya Pradesh Lokayukta—are actively searching for Saurabh Sharma, a man linked to the seizure of ₹11 crore in cash and 52 kilograms of gold from an abandoned vehicle in a village near Bhopal on December 19.
Who is Saurabh Sharma?
Saurabh Sharma, also known as “Cheenu,” hails from Gwalior and is a former civil services aspirant. He reportedly belonged to the same group of candidates that inspired the acclaimed film 12th Fail. Sharma advanced to the interview stage of the state civil services examination before his career took a different trajectory.
Following the death of his father, a government employee, Sharma secured a position as a constable in the transport department through compassionate appointment. Sources suggest he quickly adapted to the workings of a department infamous for corruption. However, his appointment was controversial, leading to his resignation. He then ventured into the construction business, which is now alleged to have served as a front for other activities.
The Seizures
On December 19, the Lokayukta’s SPE raided two Bhopal properties linked to Sharma, seizing ₹2.1 crore in cash along with gold and silver. Later that night, acting on a tip-off, the Income Tax Department discovered a vehicle parked in Mendori village bearing “Regional Transport Officer” plates and sirens. Inside the vehicle, authorities found bags containing ₹11 crore in cash and 52 kilograms of gold.
Sources indicate that during the raids, investigators were well-informed about where the bullion was hidden, suggesting insider tip-offs regarding Sharma’s operations.
Current Status
Sharma has been missing since the raids, and his anticipatory bail plea has been rejected. On December 27, the ED conducted searches at properties linked to him, his relatives, and his business associates. The Income Tax Department has issued him a notice, and the Lokayukta’s SPE has requested the state’s Criminal Investigation Department to issue a lookout notice. Authorities suspect Sharma may have fled overseas.
The Larger Picture
Sources reveal that documents recovered during the raids list officials and politicians allegedly receiving bribes from Sharma. Expensive items such as designer watches and bags were also seized, pointing to how Sharma reportedly cultivated influential relationships.
Despite these revelations, the government has not taken significant steps to curb collections at transport barriers and RTO offices, widely known as sources of illicit funds that fuel political networks. Observers warn that unless systemic reforms are implemented, figures like Saurabh Sharma will continue to emerge, perpetuating the cycle of corruption.
