Dabang Duniya Crackdown: ED attaches Rs 20-cr assets in Wadhwani syndicate probe

August 13, 2025

New Delhi: In a major crackdown on financial fraud and tax evasion, the Directorate of Enforcement (ED), Indore Sub Zonal Office, has issued a Provisional Attachment Order worth ₹11.33 crore against businessman Kishore Wadhwani, his family members, and Dabang Duniya Publications Pvt. Ltd.

The attached assets, including land and flats, are valued at over ₹20 crore in the current market. The order, dated August 12, 2025, is linked to a money laundering case tied to illegal cigarette trade and media manipulation.

Background of the Case

The investigation began after an FIR by Tukoganj Police Station, Indore, under multiple sections of the IPC. The FIR accuses Wadhwani, his nephew Nitesh Wadhwani, and others of converting illicit earnings into legitimate income. Central to the case is the alleged link between Dabang Duniya Publications and Elora Tobacco Co. Ltd., reportedly involved in covert cigarette manufacturing and sales.

Money Laundering Modus Operandi

According to the ED, profits from unaccounted cigarette sales were funneled through Dabang Duniya’s accounts by inflating newspaper circulation figures and issuing fake advertisement invoices. Investigators uncovered hundreds of forged tax documents and found the actual circulation was far lower than reported. Vehicles transporting tobacco carried press stickers and drivers had media IDs to bypass checks.

Previous Arrests and Charges

Kishore Wadhwani had earlier been arrested under the Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Act for tax evasion. He now faces charges of forgery, cheating, and criminal conspiracy. His wife Poonam Wadhwani and nephew Nitesh Wadhwani are named co-accused in the case.

Ongoing Investigation

The ED’s attachment is considered a key move in dismantling a laundering network that allegedly used media operations as a cover for tax evasion. Officials are continuing efforts to trace more assets and expose the full scale of the alleged financial irregularities in what is emerging as one of India’s largest tax evasion scandals.