BMC Covid centre scam: EOW questions Aditya Thackeray’s aide based on ED’s inputs

Since these alleged irregularities were not directly linked to EOW’s FIR in connection with Lifeline Management Service Pvt Ltd, ED shared this information with EOW for further investigation.

“We are verifying this information, and checking if a cognizable offence can be made out. And also, if any, a cognizable offence can be registered separately, or it can be linked with the investigation of Lifeline Management Service Pvt Ltd. (in which EOW has already filed a chargesheet.) Hence, Chavan was called for questioning. We may call him again if need arises,” said a senior EOW officer.

Earlier ED officials said Chavan may have been a middleman in various BMC projects, not just during the Covid time, sources said.

ED also suspects Chavan is one of the four middlemen who coordinated between contractors and civic officials for various contracts. Chavan’s name has cropped up as middleman in four to five direct contracts. Cash transactions linked to Chavan are being scrutinised. His WhatsApp chats with suppliers and contractors are already under scrutiny.

ED has identified Chavan’s four suburban Mumbai apartments worth nearly Rs 10 crore. The central agency is examining the source of the money in the purchase of these flats during the pandemic crisis. It also found a diary with details of cash transactions with suppliers.