The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its probe into a cryptocurrency scam linked to alleged misuse of Bitcoin funds for elections. ED officials conducted a raid at the Raipur residence of Gaurav Mehta, a cyber expert and a key figure in the investigation of the ₹6,600 crore Bitcoin fraud case from 2018.

Allegations Against Sule and Patole

Former IPS officer Ravindranath Patil alleged that Supriya Sule, a leader of the NCP (Sharad Pawar faction), and Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole sought Bitcoin cash from Mehta for election-related activities. Patil claimed that Mehta informed him about the misuse of funds and involvement of senior political leaders.

According to Patil, the fraud involved Amit Bharadwaj, a cryptocurrency dealer whose hardware wallet containing Bitcoins was seized during his arrest. Allegedly, a separate wallet was used under the instructions of Pune Police Commissioner at the time, Amitabh Gupta.

ED Investigation

The ED’s raid at Mehta's Raipur home focused on gathering evidence related to the alleged diversion of Bitcoin funds. Mehta, who assisted Pune police in the 2018 scam probe, has been named a key witness in the case. He is reported to have disclosed details about the hardware wallet and connections to political figures.

Supriya Sule’s Response

MP Supriya Sule has strongly denied the allegations, stating that the audio clip cited as evidence is fabricated. "The voice in the clip is not mine. These are baseless claims, and I am ready to debate this on any platform," she asserted during a press briefing.

BJP Under Scrutiny

The allegations against Sule and Patole emerged shortly after the opposition accused BJP general secretary Vinod Tawde of involvement in a "cash for votes" scandal. Tawde and the BJP have rejected these accusations, labeling them as politically motivated.

Background of the Bitcoin Scam

The 2018 cryptocurrency fraud, involving a whopping ₹6,600 crore, was orchestrated by Amit Bharadwaj and his associates. The scam duped investors by promising high returns on Bitcoin investments. Gaurav Mehta, a cyber expert, played a pivotal role in assisting Pune police with the investigation, making him a critical link in the ongoing probe.

What’s Next?

The ED is expected to summon key individuals for questioning, including political leaders and those linked to the hardware wallet. As the investigation unfolds, the case has turned into a high-stakes political battle, with both sides trading accusations.

The political and legal implications of these allegations could significantly impact Maharashtra's political landscape, with opposition parties and ruling coalitions under heightened scrutiny.