A court in Deoria has ordered the confiscation of movable and immovable properties worth more than Rs 2.10 crore belonging to alleged gangster Hridayanand Yadav in favour of the state government after finding that the assets were acquired beyond his legitimate income.
During proceedings before the Gangster Court in Deoria, the court found that the properties acquired by Hridayanand Yadav were substantially higher in value than his declared and lawful income. After examining the documents and evidence on record, the court of Additional Sessions Judge Jagannath ordered the confiscation of assets valued at Rs 2,10,67,000 in favour of the state government.
The court also held that the property attachment order previously issued by the District Magistrate was legally valid. Objections and petitions filed by the accused's family members were dismissed.
According to the prosecution, Hridayanand Yadav allegedly used money earned through criminal activities to purchase properties in the names of his wife, mother and brother. The investigation found that several immovable properties in the Pipra Mohan area of Salempur were registered in the names of his relatives.
In addition, two trucks and other vehicles were purchased in the names of family members. The prosecution maintained that the actual control and benefit of these assets remained with the accused. The court recorded these findings while delivering its order.
During the hearing, it was also stated that Hridayanand Yadav's declared monthly income was approximately Rs 7,000. The court observed that acquiring assets worth several crores of rupees could not be considered possible on the basis of such limited income.
The court said the evidence presented indicated that the properties had not been acquired through lawful sources of income. On this basis, it upheld the confiscation proceedings and passed the order in favour of the state government.
The prosecution informed the court that Hridayanand Yadav is a history-sheeter in the district and that 10 criminal cases have been registered against him at various police stations. He was also described as the alleged leader of the Tar Babu gang.
According to police records, the cases registered against him had created an atmosphere of fear in the area for a prolonged period. On the recommendation of the then Superintendent of Police, the District Magistrate submitted an application before the Gangster Court in 2021 seeking confiscation of the assets, on which the court has now delivered its final decision.
Following the court's order, the concerned movable and immovable properties will come under the control of the state government. Officials said such action helps curb assets acquired through crime and strengthens the rule of law.
