ED Attaches Noida Flats, FDs of Upendra Rai in Rs 52.55 Crore Money Laundering Scandal
The ED seizes Noida flats and FDs worth Rs 2.18 crore linked to journalist Upendra Rai in a Rs 52.55 crore money laundering scandal. Read the latest updates.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has attached properties worth Rs 2.18 crore in connection with a 2018 money laundering case involving journalist Upendra Rai and others. The attached assets include flats in Noida and fixed deposits, as per a provisional order issued under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
The ED stated, “The immovable properties are in the form of flats owned by accused Upendra Rai located in Noida, Uttar Pradesh. Movable properties include fixed deposits (FDs) and balances in savings accounts.”
Money Laundering Case Linked to CBI FIRs
The money laundering case stems from two FIRs filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Upendra Rai, the CMD and Editor-in-Chief of the Hindi news channel Bharat Express, was first arrested by the CBI and later by the ED in May 2018. Although he was granted bail, investigations revealed his alleged involvement in extortion schemes.
According to the ED, Rai, along with his brother Narender Rai and other associates, extorted money from individuals and entities by threatening them with action from investigative agencies. The ED alleged that these funds, amounting to Rs 52.55 crore, were funneled through various bank accounts under the pretense of consultancy services.
Previous Attachments in the Case
The ED had previously attached assets worth Rs 26.65 crore in 2018 and filed two charge sheets in the same year. The current attachment, valued at Rs 2.18 crore, adds to the ongoing legal proceedings against Upendra Rai and his associates.
This case highlights the ED’s continued efforts to address financial crimes under the PMLA. The investigation into Upendra Rai’s alleged extortion and money laundering activities underscores the importance of curbing misuse of authority for personal gain.