Kadam acted as Parab’s frontman, put pressure on authorities: court

The ED had alleged that in 2017 Parab had intended to purchase land in Ratnagiri and approached his friend Kadam.

The ED claims that a land identified for the construction of a twin bungalow was found to be in a No-Development Zone. However, it was mutual understanding between Kadam and Parab that the former would manage the work of getting permissions from competent authorities for the construction.

The court held that there was a complete prohibition on development on the property according to the Environment Protection Act and hence, any revenue earned from its sale or other activities was to be considered proceeds of crime.

It said that a case against Kadam is prima facie established as per provisions of Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The court said that roles attributed to the accused show that the revenue authorities of Dapoli and grampanchayat were under pressure from Parab and Kadam.

“They had no alternative rather than to surrender and bow down before them. Hence, they made compliances which are favourable to Mr Anil Parab and Sadanand Kadam (A1) being helpers and having no alternative. Hence, permission for non-agricultural use was granted and taxes were levied,” the court said.

It added that the way in which the government authorities were pressurised for getting illegal permissions clearly indicates that, there is no certainty in future that Kadam is not likely to commit any offence while on bail.

Kadam’s lawyers during the bail plea had said that as per allegations of the ED, Parab is considered the main accused. The court said that proceedings against Parab are pending before the High Court.