In a significant development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is conducting raids at seven locations linked to Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Ravindra Waikar. The searches include the residence of Waikar’s wife and locations connected to his business partners Aasoo Nehlanai, Raj Lalchandani, Prithpal Bindra, and architect Arun Dubey. 

The raids are part of an investigation into an alleged Rs 500-crore plot scam, wherein Waikar is accused of deceiving the BMC by securing permission to construct a five-star hotel on a plot designated for BMC playgrounds and gardens, exploiting his political connections for approval and causing substantial losses to the civic body.