Former Punjab minister and Congress leader Bharat Bhushan Ashu was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a money-laundering case linked to a transportation and labor cartage tender scam. The ED's investigation, initiated after the Punjab Vigilance Bureau filed an FIR in 2022, uncovered significant evidence including ₹6 crore in cash, multiple bank lockers, and various incriminating documents. Ashu is accused of allotting tenders through favoritism, causing substantial financial loss to the government. The probe also revealed the use of fake vehicle license plates and incorrect vehicle numbers during the tender process. The ED has seized assets worth several crores, including gold, jewelry, and properties. Ashu’s custody is sought to further investigate the money trail and involvement of other officials and contractors.