ED Raids Himachal Assistant Drug Controller Nishant Sareen, More Than 40 Bank Accounts Frozen

Last Updated:June 26, 2025, 16:35 IST

The investigation is related to a case of corruption and bribery while Sareen was posted as ADC in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh

Seizures during ED raids against Sareen. Images/News18

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) Chandigarh Zone has conducted search operations at seven residential and commercial premises as well as government offices located in Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab linked to Nishant Sareen, presently posted as assistant drug controller (ADC), Dharamshala. The investigation is related to a case of corruption and bribery while Sareen was posted as ADC in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh.

The ED’s investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) was initiated based on an FIR registered by the State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau, Himachal Pradesh Police. The FIR was filed under Section 11 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, against Nishant Sareen for allegedly misusing his official position for personal benefits.

Background

While posted as ADC in Baddi, Sareen was accused of corruption and bribery. He was arrested by the State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau and charge-sheeted along with his associate Komal Khanna. After being released on bail, Sareen was posted as ADC in Dharamshala in September 2024.

Another FIR was registered against Sareen and others by the Haryana police in 2022. The FIR alleged forgery of a partnership deed of Zhenia Pharmaceuticals, Panchkula, which increased Komal Khanna’s share from 50% to 95%. Sareen and Khanna were also accused of threat and intimidation, indicating misuse of Sareen’s official position.

Seizures during search operation

During the recent search operation, the ED seized various documents, including drug licenses, show cause notices, and clearances issued to pharmaceutical companies. Property-related documents and digital devices, including mobile phones, laptops, and pen drives, were also seized.

The ED also seized two vehicles worth approximately Rs 32 lakh and froze more than 40 bank accounts and FDRs belonging to Nishant Sareen and his family members. Additionally, three lockers were also frozen. During the search, more than 60 unaccounted liquor bottles were found at Sareen’s residence in Omaxe Cassia, New Chandigarh.

Ongoing investigation

The ED is investigating complaints of extortion by Nishant Sareen in his present role as ADC, Dharamshala. The agency is also probing interconnected financial transactions between Sareen’s family members and pharmaceutical companies.

The investigation is ongoing, and the ED is working to uncover the extent of Sareen’s alleged corruption and bribery.

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