Jaisalmer: An Income Tax department team searched the residence and office premises of PWD contractor Bhajanlal Bishnoi in Barmer late Tuesday evening, examining documents and financial records linked to his firm. The search continued till late night and was underway Wednesday.The team reached Barmer in four vehicles and began searches at Bishnoi’s office near Chouhtan Circle. Officials restricted movement in and out of the premises while examining documents and records. Bishnoi was present at the office during the operation.The latest action is significant as Bishnoi, an AA-class contractor considered close to Congress leaders, was arrested around two-and-a-half years ago in connection with the REET paper leak case. He had also participated in a Sadbhavana Yatra organised by Congress.According to officials familiar with the earlier case, SOG had arrested Bishnoi and his niece Sohni Devi in connection with the paper leak. During the investigation, around Rs 71 lakh in cash and other evidence were seized.Sohni Devi was reportedly scheduled to appear for the examination, and the investigation had alleged that Bishnoi purchased the leaked question paper for her. Investigators had also alleged that the paper was subsequently sold to other candidates, involving transactions worth crores of rupees.Following the paper leak investigation, Enforcement Directorate had searched Bishnoi’s residence in Mahavir Nagar, Barmer, and seized documents.Bishnoi, a resident of Mahavir Nagar, is also considered close to former Congress MLA Padmaram. During his earlier arrest by SOG, reports had suggested that several legislators had approached authorities on his behalf.The latest Income Tax search is understood to be focused on scrutinising the financial transactions and documents of Bishnoi’s firm. Officials have not disclosed details of the findings so far.
