J&K Dy CM's Brother Raided by ACB in Disproportionate Assets Case

On Wednesday, February 25, 2026, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) initiated extensive searches at the residence of Vijay Choudhary, the brother of Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, in Jammu. The raids were conducted as part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of disproportionate assets. Vijay Choudhary, who holds the rank of an Inspector in the Jammu and Kashmir Police, had been transferred to Ladakh in September 2025 and is currently under suspension. Officials from the ACB confirmed that the search operation commenced early in the morning at Vijay Choudhary's home located in the Santokh Vihar–Kalochak (also referred to as Talo Kalo Chak) area of Jammu. The focus of the probe is to ascertain if Vijay Choudhary has accumulated assets that are inconsistent with his known sources of income. This high-profile action by the anti-graft body has drawn significant attention across the Union Territory. Following the raids, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary vehemently defended his brother, labelling the ACB's action as a 'political vendetta' or 'political banditry.' Speaking to reporters, Choudhary alleged that the raids were politically motivated and aimed at obstructing his brother's potential promotion to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) and tarnishing his reputation. He highlighted his brother's distinguished service record, emphasizing Vijay Choudhary's active involvement in anti-terror operations in critical areas like Gursai, Thanamandi, and Doda. The Deputy CM asserted that his brother had consistently fought against militancy and crime throughout his career, building a strong reputation for his courage and professionalism. Surinder Choudhary expressed dismay, stating that instead of being recognized and rewarded for his dedicated service, his brother was being subjected to humiliation. He also hinted at internal rivalries within the police force, suggesting that these might be hindering his brother's career progression. Despite the accusations, the Deputy Chief Minister affirmed his family's faith in the judiciary, expressing confidence that justice would prevail and they would legally contest the matter. He maintained that his family has achieved its current standing through hard work and perseverance, rejecting any allegations of wrongdoing. While the specific raid on Vijay Choudhary is primarily linked to disproportionate assets, the broader context of illegal mining allegations in Jammu & Kashmir has also been a prominent issue. Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary himself holds the mining portfolio and has been vocal about cracking down on illegal mining activities, announcing strict measures against those involved and emphasizing transparency and accountability in the sector. This background, while not the direct cause of this specific raid, adds a layer of political intrigue and public scrutiny to the ongoing anti-corruption efforts in the Union Territory. The ACB has a history of conducting preliminary inquiries into alleged disproportionate assets before proceeding with raids, indicating a thorough process. The incident underscores the ongoing efforts by the Anti-Corruption Bureau in Jammu and Kashmir to combat corruption among public servants. Such investigations involving high-ranking officials' relatives highlight the ACB's mandate to scrutinize financial impropriety across various levels of governance. The outcome of this probe and the legal battles that may ensue will be closely watched, as they could have significant implications for political dynamics and public perception of accountability in Jammu and Kashmir.

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