<h1>MLA summoned in sugar factory fraud case involving manipulated auction and money laundering charges</h1> A court took cognisance of the Enforcement Directorate's chargesheet against an MLA in the Maharashtra State Co-operative Bank scam, issuing summons for August 21 appearance. The case involves alleged fraudulent acquisition of a sugar factory through a manipulated auction process. The court found prima facie evidence that the accused MLA, through his company, and his business associate knowingly participated in fraudulent acquisition of assets at suppressed prices. The MSCB had taken possession of the sugar factory under SARFAESI Act to recover outstanding loans of Rs 80.56 crore. The auction process was allegedly marred by fraudulent practices, with the factory being undervalued during auction but revalued at Rs 75 crore shortly after. The court noted sufficient material indicating violation of Prevention of Money Laundering Act provisions through knowingly handling proceeds of crime.