Regarding FEMA, Navin said the responsibility of ED is to ensure strict compliance with regulations issued by the Centre and the Reserve Bank of India. He also highlighted the agency’s intention to strengthen the implementation of FEOA regulations with the support of police and other predicate agencies.
ED will also leverage advanced technology and evidence for investigations and will invest in training and capacity building for its officials to maintain cutting-edge investigative capabilities.
Navin shared a comparative analysis, pointing out a surge in law enforcement activities after 2014. Until March 31, 2014, there were Rs 51,71 crore of criminal property attached and the first complaint was filed in 2012. Instead, between 2014 and 2024, 5,113 new PMLA surveys were initiated, with an average of 500 cases per year. In the 2024-25 fiscal year alone, 775 new PMLA investigations were initiated, 333 complaints were filed, and 34 people were convicted. During this period, ED released 461 temporary orders worth Rs 30,036 crore, marking a 44% increase in the number of attachments, with a total value of 141% compared to the previous year.
Regarding compensation for the proceeds of crime, Rs 15,261 crore was recovered in 30 cases during the 2024-25 fiscal year approved by the court, a process expected to accelerate. As of March 31, there were 1,739 cases under trial in the emergency room, after 333 complaints filed last year. According to the FEOA, applications have been filed against 24 people, including 14 economic offenders who have been declared fugitives, resulting in the confiscation of assets of more than Rs 9 billion.
