The Directorate of Enforcement (ED), Bhopal Zonal Office, has filed a Prosecution Complaint (PC) against Sobaran Singh Apouriya, the former Senior District Registrar, Bhopal, under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
The complaint was filed before the Special PMLA Court, Bhopal, on January 19, 2026, and the court has issued a notice for pre-cognizance hearing to the accused.
Case Originates from Lokayukta FIR
The ED initiated its investigation based on an FIR registered by the Special Police Establishment, Lokayukta Office, Bhopal, under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
The FIR alleged that Sobaran Singh Apouriya, while serving as a public servant, had accumulated assets disproportionate to his known sources of income, in violation of Section 13(1)(e) read with Section 13(2) of the Act.
Allegations of Disproportionate Assets
According to the ED’s findings, Apouriya allegedly misused his official position as Senior District Registrar to acquire assets worth approximately ₹97.13 lakh, which were found to be grossly disproportionate to his lawful income during the relevant check period.
The agency stated that he was the direct beneficiary of the proceeds of crime generated from the scheduled offence.
Alleged Money Laundering Mechanism
The ED investigation further revealed that Apouriya allegedly devised and implemented a money-laundering mechanism to retain, conceal, and enjoy the illicit assets. Investigators stated that the proceeds of crime were routed through multiple bank accounts held by family members and subsequently converted into financial instruments and immovable properties.
The agency alleged that he knowingly acquired, possessed, concealed, and used the proceeds of crime, while attempting to project them as legitimate, thereby attracting offences under Section 3 of the PMLA, punishable under Section 4 of the Act.
With the filing of the prosecution complaint, the matter will now proceed before the Special PMLA Court in accordance with law.
Source: ED Press Release dated 21/01/2026