India's Enforcement directorate seized Xiaomi assets worth $725 million over alleged violation of forex laws. How has Xiaomi reacted to these charges? How close is India's smartphone market leader to the Chinese regime? Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you.

Gravitas: Indian authorities seize Xiaomi assets worth $725 million

On April 30, the Enforcement Directorate seized Rs 55 billion from Xiaomi Technology India Private Limited, a Chinese electronics firm.

According to top sources, the capital was seized after it was discovered illegally lying in bank accounts.

While the seizure is being carried out under FEMA and in relation to the company's illicit external remittances, the economic intelligence agency has launched an inquiry into the illegal remittances made in February.

Xiaomi India is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Xiaomi group, which is based in China.

The Enforcement Directorate tweeted on its official handle: "ED has seized Rs 55 billion of M/s Xiaomi Technology India Private Limited lying in the bank accounts under the provisions of the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 in connection with the illegal outward remittances made by the company,".

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ED has seized Rs.5551.27 Crore of M/s Xiaomi Technology India Private Limited lying in the bank accounts under the provisions of Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 in connection with the illegal outward remittances made by the company.
— ED (@dir_ed) <a href="https://twitter.com/dir_ed/status/1520334910677917696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The organisation began operations in India in 2014 and began money remittance in 2015.

Under the premise of royalty payments, Xiaomi has sent Rs 55 billion in foreign currency to three foreign-based businesses, one of which is a Xiaomi Group firm.

On the orders of their Chinese parent group organisations, such large sums in the name of royalties were remitted.

The money sent to the other two unconnected organisations in the United States was also for the benefit of the Xiaomi group's entities, prompting the ED to take action.

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On April 30, the Enforcement Directorate seized Rs 55 billion from Xiaomi Technology India Private Limited, a Chinese electronics firm. According to top sources, the capital was seized after it was discovered illegally lying in bank accounts.

On April 30, the Enforcement Directorate seized Rs 55 billion from Xiaomi Technology India Private Limited, a Chinese electronics firm. According to top sources, the capital was seized after it was discovered illegally lying in bank accounts. While the seizure is being carried out under FEMA and in relation to the company's illicit external remittances, the economic intelligence agency has launched an inquiry into the illegal remittances made in February. Xiaomi India is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Xiaomi group, which is based in China. The Enforcement Directorate tweeted on its official handle: "ED has seized Rs 55 billion of M/s Xiaomi Technology India Private Limited lying in the bank accounts under the provisions of the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 in connection with the illegal outward remittances made by the company,". ED has seized Rs.5551.27 Crore of M/s Xiaomi Technology India Private Limited lying in the bank accounts under the provisions of Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 in connection with the illegal outward remittances made by the company. — ED (@dir_ed) April 30, 2022 × The organisation began operations in India in 2014 and began money remittance in 2015. Under the premise of royalty payments, Xiaomi has sent Rs 55 billion in foreign currency to three foreign-based businesses, one of which is a Xiaomi Group firm. On the orders of their Chinese parent group organisations, such large sums in the name of royalties were remitted. The money sent to the other two unconnected organisations in the United States was also for the benefit of the Xiaomi group's entities, prompting the ED to take action. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Xiaomi's assets worth Rs 55 billion seized by ED over forex violations

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and Vice President of National Conference Omar Abdullah has been questioned by Enforcement Directorate (ED) in New Delhi on Thursday. According to a source in the ED, the questioning was done in a case related to Jammu and Kashmir Bank. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The National Conference has called it ‘vicious vilification campaign’. NC has said that central government has made a habit of misusing investigative agencies. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Abdullah appeared before the investigators of the agency at around 11 am at its headquarters. The leader was earlier summoned by the agency. He was asked to visit its office on Thursday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-companies-to-give-an-average-pay-hike-of-8-12-per-cent-in-2022-says-report-469103" hreflang="en">Indian companies to give an average pay hike of 8-12 per cent in 2022, says report</a>

“The central government has made a habit of misusing investigative agencies, and this is another step in the same direction. No political party that puts up meaningful opposition to the BJP has been spared, whether it is the ED, CBI, NIA, NCB - all have been used for political purposes,” said National conference in a statement. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The National conference said that Omar Abdullah despite Ramzan and Delhi not being his place of residence, didn’t postpone the date of questioning and went ahead with it. They have said that elections might take place in Jammu Kashmir this year, and due to this, BJP is using agencies to target other party leaders. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“There was a time when elections were announced by the EC but now it seems that elections are announced by the ED. Over recent years, we have seen that wherever state elections are due, agencies like the ED move in and target those parties who pose a challenge to the BJP. This summons to our Vice President is in the same vein. We have no doubt that this fishing expedition will yield no concrete results to the BJP and the people will give a ringing endorsement to the national conference as and when required,” said National Conference. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The ED hasn’t given out any further details about the case Omar was questioned for. &nbsp;

Watch | Gravitas: Petrol, Diesel prices soar in India

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The officials seem to be taking statement of Abdullah, who has been accused of opening several accounts in the Jammu and Kashmir Bank, through close aides, like Ahsan Mirza, who was authorised to sign cheques, an ANI report said. &nbsp;

Mirza, was also appointed "treasurer" of JK Cricket Association (JKCA) by Abdullah when he was president even when Mirza was not an elected office-bearer. &nbsp;

Parallel accounts of the association were also opened in connivance with a senior executive of the bank, sources claimed. &nbsp;

In July 2019, the ED had also questioned Abdullah on the statements of Mirza and other associates, who were earlier questioned by the agency.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and Vice President of National Conference Omar Abdullah has been questioned by Enforcement Directorate (ED) in New Delhi on Thursday.

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and Vice President of National Conference Omar Abdullah has been questioned by Enforcement Directorate (ED) in New Delhi on Thursday. According to a source in the ED, the questioning was done in a case related to Jammu and Kashmir Bank. The National Conference has called it ‘vicious vilification campaign’. NC has said that central government has made a habit of misusing investigative agencies. Abdullah appeared before the investigators of the agency at around 11 am at its headquarters. The leader was earlier summoned by the agency. He was asked to visit its office on Thursday. Also Read: Indian companies to give an average pay hike of 8-12 per cent in 2022, says report “The central government has made a habit of misusing investigative agencies, and this is another step in the same direction. No political party that puts up meaningful opposition to the BJP has been spared, whether it is the ED, CBI, NIA, NCB - all have been used for political purposes,” said National conference in a statement. The National conference said that Omar Abdullah despite Ramzan and Delhi not being his place of residence, didn’t postpone the date of questioning and went ahead with it. They have said that elections might take place in Jammu Kashmir this year, and due to this, BJP is using agencies to target other party leaders. “There was a time when elections were announced by the EC but now it seems that elections are announced by the ED. Over recent years, we have seen that wherever state elections are due, agencies like the ED move in and target those parties who pose a challenge to the BJP. This summons to our Vice President is in the same vein. We have no doubt that this fishing expedition will yield no concrete results to the BJP and the people will give a ringing endorsement to the national conference as and when required,” said National Conference. The ED hasn’t given out any further details about the case Omar was questioned for. Watch | Gravitas: Petrol, Diesel prices soar in India × The officials seem to be taking statement of Abdullah, who has been accused of opening several accounts in the Jammu and Kashmir Bank, through close aides, like Ahsan Mirza, who was authorised to sign cheques, an ANI report said. Mirza, was also appointed "treasurer" of JK Cricket Association (JKCA) by Abdullah when he was president even when Mirza was not an elected office-bearer. Parallel accounts of the association were also opened in connivance with a senior executive of the bank, sources claimed. In July 2019, the ED had also questioned Abdullah on the statements of Mirza and other associates, who were earlier questioned by the agency. (With inputs from agencies)

ED quizzes Omar Abdullah; NC calls it Centre's ‘vicious vilification campaign’  

Bollywood star Aishwarya Rai Bachchan appeared in front of Enforcement Directorate in connection with the Panama paper leak case on Monday. The actress has allegedly violated the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).&nbsp; 
 
She was summoned by the ED a few days back.&nbsp;Rai reached ED's Jamnagar House office in the national capital.&nbsp; 
 
The agency was required to record the statement of the 48-year-old actress in the case over allegations of stashing wealth abroad under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999. 
 
This isn't the first time that the actress has been summoned in the case. 
 
She was summoned earlier on two occasions. However, she didn't join the probe. Earlier on November 9, Aishwarya was summoned to record her testimony in the case.&nbsp; 
 
The ED had lodged a case under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) after the Panama Papers showed how companies were set up in offshore islands to avoid taxes. 
 
The Panama Papers pertain to leaked documents that point towards fraud and tax evasion by many individuals and corporate entities across the world. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan`s name featured in the list of 500 Indians who were named in the massive leak of 11.5 million tax documents exposing their secret offshore dealings

(With inputs from agencies)

Bollywood star Aishwarya Rai Bachchan appeared in front of Enforcement Directorate in connection with the Panama paper leak case on Monday. The actress has allegedly violated the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).

Bollywood star Aishwarya Rai Bachchan appeared in front of Enforcement Directorate in connection with the Panama paper leak case on Monday. The actress has allegedly violated the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). She was summoned by the ED a few days back. Rai reached ED's Jamnagar House office in the national capital. The agency was required to record the statement of the 48-year-old actress in the case over allegations of stashing wealth abroad under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999. This isn't the first time that the actress has been summoned in the case. She was summoned earlier on two occasions. However, she didn't join the probe. Earlier on November 9, Aishwarya was summoned to record her testimony in the case. The ED had lodged a case under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) after the Panama Papers showed how companies were set up in offshore islands to avoid taxes. The Panama Papers pertain to leaked documents that point towards fraud and tax evasion by many individuals and corporate entities across the world. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan`s name featured in the list of 500 Indians who were named in the massive leak of 11.5 million tax documents exposing their secret offshore dealings (With inputs from agencies)

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan summoned by ED for Panama Paper leak case

It is true that Jacqueline Fernandez is no longer part of the Pawan Kalyan Telugu starrer 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu'. However, her exclusion from the project has nothing to do with her current troubles with the Enforcement &nbsp;Directorate (ED).

Director Krish Jagarlamudi explains, “Jacqueline was unable to do the film because of some date issues. She opted out last year and we replaced her with Nargis Fakhri. &nbsp;The media is unnecessarily raking up an old issue at a time when Jacqueline is in the news. I repeat, &nbsp;her exclusion &nbsp;from &nbsp;Hari Hara Veera Mallu happened almost a year back.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-jacqueline-fernandez-appears-before-ed-as-a-witness-in-extortion-case-against-conman-sukesh-chandrashekhar-435028" hreflang="en">Jacqueline Fernandez appears before ED as a witness in extortion case against conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar</a>

Krish sheds more light on the project. “It is a lavish costume drama set during the &nbsp;Moghul dynasty. Pawan &nbsp;Kalyanji plays a&nbsp;17th century outlawed hero. Nargis is cast as Roshanara. She has the beautiful radiant look of a Mughal empress."&nbsp;

Jacqueline Fernandez was offloaded at the Mumbai airport while on her way to Dubai last week. The actress has been forbidden to travel abroad as she is one of the key witnesses in connection with a Rs 200 crore extortion case involving conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar. The actress had to appear at the ED office last week for questioning.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ed-stops-jacqueline-fernandez-at-mumbai-airport-from-flying-abroad-434492" hreflang="en">ED stops Jacqueline Fernandez at Mumbai airport from flying abroad&nbsp;</a>

It is true that Jacqueline Fernandez is no longer part of the Pawan Kalyan Telugu starrer 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu'. However, her exclusion from the project has nothing to do with her current troubles with the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

It is true that Jacqueline Fernandez is no longer part of the Pawan Kalyan Telugu starrer 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu'. However, her exclusion from the project has nothing to do with her current troubles with the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Director Krish Jagarlamudi explains, “Jacqueline was unable to do the film because of some date issues. She opted out last year and we replaced her with Nargis Fakhri. The media is unnecessarily raking up an old issue at a time when Jacqueline is in the news. I repeat, her exclusion from Hari Hara Veera Mallu happened almost a year back.” Jacqueline Fernandez appears before ED as a witness in extortion case against conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar Krish sheds more light on the project. “It is a lavish costume drama set during the Moghul dynasty. Pawan Kalyanji plays a 17th century outlawed hero. Nargis is cast as Roshanara. She has the beautiful radiant look of a Mughal empress." Jacqueline Fernandez was offloaded at the Mumbai airport while on her way to Dubai last week. The actress has been forbidden to travel abroad as she is one of the key witnesses in connection with a Rs 200 crore extortion case involving conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar. The actress had to appear at the ED office last week for questioning. ED stops Jacqueline Fernandez at Mumbai airport from flying abroad

Was Jacqueline Fernandez dropped From Pawan Kalyan's film? Director Krish clarifies

Bollywood star Jacqueline Fernandez appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) at its office in Delhi on Wednesday in connection with Rs 200 crore extortion case involving conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar.&nbsp; 
 
According to PTI, the ED had asked Fernandez to be present at the ED office by 11 am on December 8. Her questioning is believed to be important to the case as one of the key witnesses. The case involves a multi-crore extortion racket operated by Chandrasekhar. 
 
The actor had earlier skipped various summons issued by the federal agency citing different reasons. 
 
The ED's move come after Fernandez <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ed-stops-jacqueline-fernandez-at-mumbai-airport-from-flying-abroad-434492">was offloaded on Sunday from an Air India</a> flight by Immigration Officials as a Look Out Circular in the case of the Enforcement Directorate is pending against her.She was reportedly flying to Muscat when she was stopped.&nbsp; 
 
Images of Fernandez and Chandrashekhar have been doing the rounds of social media.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-jacqueline-fernandezs-troubles-multiply-may-drop-out-of-da-bangg-tour-434543">Jacqueline Fernandez's troubles multiply, may drop out of 'Da-bangg' tour</a> 
 
At the moment Fernandez is not be permitted to leave India. Earlier, the ED has questioned the actress in August. Another actress Nora Fatehi has also been questioned by the ED in connection with the same case twice before.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bollywood star Jacqueline Fernandez appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) at its office in Delhi on Wednesday in connection with Rs 200 crore extortion case involving conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar.

Bollywood star Jacqueline Fernandez appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) at its office in Delhi on Wednesday in connection with Rs 200 crore extortion case involving conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar. According to PTI, the ED had asked Fernandez to be present at the ED office by 11 am on December 8. Her questioning is believed to be important to the case as one of the key witnesses. The case involves a multi-crore extortion racket operated by Chandrasekhar. The actor had earlier skipped various summons issued by the federal agency citing different reasons. The ED's move come after Fernandez was offloaded on Sunday from an Air India flight by Immigration Officials as a Look Out Circular in the case of the Enforcement Directorate is pending against her.She was reportedly flying to Muscat when she was stopped. Images of Fernandez and Chandrashekhar have been doing the rounds of social media. Jacqueline Fernandez's troubles multiply, may drop out of 'Da-bangg' tour At the moment Fernandez is not be permitted to leave India. Earlier, the ED has questioned the actress in August. Another actress Nora Fatehi has also been questioned by the ED in connection with the same case twice before. (With inputs from agencies)

Jacqueline Fernandez appears before ED as a witness in extortion case against conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday said that it has attached the properties worth Rs 4.98 crore of Vijay Akkash, Mohamed Musthafa, M.D. Jairam and others in Syndicate bank fraud case.

The ED in a statement said that the financial probe agency has attached the properties under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

It said that the ED registered a case of money laundering on the basis of FIR filed by Commercial Street Police Station in Karnataka`s Bengaluru against Akkash, Musthafa, Jairam, the then Assistant Branch Manager of Syndicate Bank, Uttarahalli Branch in Bengaluru and others.

It said probe revealed that Akkash, the mastermind of the whole conspiracy along with Jairam, Nagaraju, Revenna, Siddagangaiah, and others, opened a fake current account in the Syndicate Bank in the name of Karnataka State Agricultural Marketing Board (KSAMB) operated by Musthafa impersonating as the Account officer of KSAMB, based on the fake and fabricated documents such as Board Resolution, ID Card, Letter head of KSAMB etc, and succeeded in transferring Rs 50 crore to the fake Current Account.

"Musthafa after getting the said amount of Rs 50 crore in the fake current account of KSAMB with the help of Jairam and others, subsequently transferred Rs 47.96 crore into various bank account belonging to various entities, persons etc, who acted as accomplices to the conspiracy," it said.

"Investigation revealed that the bank accounts of each of those entities and persons were used to withdraw money in the form of cash and to buy jewellery and land by the accused and their accomplices," it said.

It said that identified assets in the form of the balances in the bank accounts used for money laundering, jewellery and land to the tune of Rs 4.98 crore in the form of movable and immovable properties have been provisionally attached under PMLA.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday said that it has attached the properties worth Rs 4.98 crore of Vijay Akkash, Mohamed Musthafa, M.D. Jairam and others in Syndicate bank fraud case.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday said that it has attached the properties worth Rs 4.98 crore of Vijay Akkash, Mohamed Musthafa, M.D. Jairam and others in Syndicate bank fraud case. The ED in a statement said that the financial probe agency has attached the properties under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). It said that the ED registered a case of money laundering on the basis of FIR filed by Commercial Street Police Station in Karnataka`s Bengaluru against Akkash, Musthafa, Jairam, the then Assistant Branch Manager of Syndicate Bank, Uttarahalli Branch in Bengaluru and others. It said probe revealed that Akkash, the mastermind of the whole conspiracy along with Jairam, Nagaraju, Revenna, Siddagangaiah, and others, opened a fake current account in the Syndicate Bank in the name of Karnataka State Agricultural Marketing Board (KSAMB) operated by Musthafa impersonating as the Account officer of KSAMB, based on the fake and fabricated documents such as Board Resolution, ID Card, Letter head of KSAMB etc, and succeeded in transferring Rs 50 crore to the fake Current Account. "Musthafa after getting the said amount of Rs 50 crore in the fake current account of KSAMB with the help of Jairam and others, subsequently transferred Rs 47.96 crore into various bank account belonging to various entities, persons etc, who acted as accomplices to the conspiracy," it said. "Investigation revealed that the bank accounts of each of those entities and persons were used to withdraw money in the form of cash and to buy jewellery and land by the accused and their accomplices," it said. It said that identified assets in the form of the balances in the bank accounts used for money laundering, jewellery and land to the tune of Rs 4.98 crore in the form of movable and immovable properties have been provisionally attached under PMLA.

ED attaches assets worth Rs 4.9 cr in Syndicate Bank fraud case

On Wednesday, the Debt Recovery Tribunal, on behalf of the consortium, sold the shares of United Breweries for Rs 5,824.50 crore. Further realisation of close to Rs 800 crore through share sale is expected by June 25.

Vijay Mallya & PNB cases: ED transfers $1.2 BN 'Fraud Money' to banks

In a major setback to former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Saturday attached several of his properties worth Rs 11.86 crore in connection with its probe into the J&amp;K Cricket Association (JKCA) case, officials said.

An ED official told IANS, "We have attached properties of Farooq Abdullah, including three residential buildings and two plots."

He said the properties of the National Conference (NC) leader have been attached under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Among the attached properties are residences at Gupkar Road in Srinagar; Tehsil Katipora, Tanmarg; and Bhatindi Village, Sunjwan Jammu, the official said.

He further said that during investigation, it was revealed that from 2005-06 to December 2011, JKCA received Rs 109.78 crore from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

"Between 2006 and January 2012, Farooq Abdullah was the chairman of JKCA and he misused his position and clout to make illegal appointments of office-bearers at JKCA to whom he gave financial powers for the purpose of laundering of JKCA funds," the official said.

"Investigations further revealed that Farooq Abdullah was instrumental as well as beneficiary of the laundered funds of the JKCA. Despite the existing bank account of JKCA, six bank accounts were opened for parking of JKCA funds," the official said.

He further said that one dormant bank account in the name of Kashmir wing of JKCA was also made operational for the same purpose.

"Investigation has found that JKCA funds worth Rs 45 crore was siphoned, which includes huge cash withdrawl to the tune of Rs 25 crore, with no corresponding justification," the official said.

He further said that for the purpose of generation of the proceeds of crime, funds were layered by a way of complex interbank transfers in all the bank accounts of JKCA and also by transfer to several personal bank accounts, followed by sbiponing of funds.

The ED has questioned Farooq Abdullah twice in connection with a case of alleged misappropriation of funds when he was the chairman of the JKCA.

The ED case is based on an FIR filed by the CBI, which booked former JKCA office-bearers, including general secretary Mohammed Saleem Khan and former treasurer Ahsan Ahmad Mirza.

The CBI later filed a chargesheet against Farooq Abdullah, Khan, Mirza as well as Mir Manzoor Gazanffer Ali, Bashir Ahmad Misgar and Gulzar Ahmad Beigh (former accountant of JKCA) for "misappropriation of JKCA funds amounting to Rs 43.69 crore" from the grants given by the BCCI to promote the sport in the state between 2002 and 2011.

In a major setback to former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Saturday attached several of his properties worth Rs 11.

In a major setback to former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Saturday attached several of his properties worth Rs 11.86 crore in connection with its probe into the J&K Cricket Association (JKCA) case, officials said. An ED official told IANS, "We have attached properties of Farooq Abdullah, including three residential buildings and two plots." He said the properties of the National Conference (NC) leader have been attached under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Among the attached properties are residences at Gupkar Road in Srinagar; Tehsil Katipora, Tanmarg; and Bhatindi Village, Sunjwan Jammu, the official said. He further said that during investigation, it was revealed that from 2005-06 to December 2011, JKCA received Rs 109.78 crore from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). "Between 2006 and January 2012, Farooq Abdullah was the chairman of JKCA and he misused his position and clout to make illegal appointments of office-bearers at JKCA to whom he gave financial powers for the purpose of laundering of JKCA funds," the official said. "Investigations further revealed that Farooq Abdullah was instrumental as well as beneficiary of the laundered funds of the JKCA. Despite the existing bank account of JKCA, six bank accounts were opened for parking of JKCA funds," the official said. He further said that one dormant bank account in the name of Kashmir wing of JKCA was also made operational for the same purpose. "Investigation has found that JKCA funds worth Rs 45 crore was siphoned, which includes huge cash withdrawl to the tune of Rs 25 crore, with no corresponding justification," the official said. He further said that for the purpose of generation of the proceeds of crime, funds were layered by a way of complex interbank transfers in all the bank accounts of JKCA and also by transfer to several personal bank accounts, followed by sbiponing of funds. The ED has questioned Farooq Abdullah twice in connection with a case of alleged misappropriation of funds when he was the chairman of the JKCA. The ED case is based on an FIR filed by the CBI, which booked former JKCA office-bearers, including general secretary Mohammed Saleem Khan and former treasurer Ahsan Ahmad Mirza. The CBI later filed a chargesheet against Farooq Abdullah, Khan, Mirza as well as Mir Manzoor Gazanffer Ali, Bashir Ahmad Misgar and Gulzar Ahmad Beigh (former accountant of JKCA) for "misappropriation of JKCA funds amounting to Rs 43.69 crore" from the grants given by the BCCI to promote the sport in the state between 2002 and 2011.

ED attaches properties of Farooq Abdullah worth USD 1.61 million

The enforcement directorate once again summoned and questioned the former J&amp;K chief minister and current Member of Parliament Farooq Abdullah at their Srinagar office.

The Member of Parliament was questioned for 5 hours in the J&amp;K Cricket Association scam. This is for the second time in two days that he was called to the office for questioning into the multi-crore scam which came to light in 2012.

Farooq arrived at the ED office at around 11 am and left at 4 pm. He was summoned to the office on his birthday as he turned 84. Unlike last time, Farooq chose to leave silently after his questioning ended.

His party, National Conference, called the latest summon as a ‘coercive plot,’ while expressing dismay over “unnecessary hounding of the octogenarian leader.”

On Monday, he was questioned for 7 hours while local parties questioned the timing of his summoning, calling it a political vendetta in light of the formation of collation to fight against the abrogation of J&amp;K special status.

The case was taken over by the Central Bureau of Investigation, the premier investigating agency of India, who filed a charge sheet against ex-office bearers of JKCA including Farooq Abdullah. The case of ED is based on a CBI FIR alleging misappropriation of rupees 43.69 crores.

The enforcement directorate once again summoned and questioned the former J&K chief minister and current Member of Parliament Farooq Abdullah at their Srinagar office.

The enforcement directorate once again summoned and questioned the former J&K chief minister and current Member of Parliament Farooq Abdullah at their Srinagar office. The Member of Parliament was questioned for 5 hours in the J&K Cricket Association scam. This is for the second time in two days that he was called to the office for questioning into the multi-crore scam which came to light in 2012. Farooq arrived at the ED office at around 11 am and left at 4 pm. He was summoned to the office on his birthday as he turned 84. Unlike last time, Farooq chose to leave silently after his questioning ended. His party, National Conference, called the latest summon as a ‘coercive plot,’ while expressing dismay over “unnecessary hounding of the octogenarian leader.” On Monday, he was questioned for 7 hours while local parties questioned the timing of his summoning, calling it a political vendetta in light of the formation of collation to fight against the abrogation of J&K special status. The case was taken over by the Central Bureau of Investigation, the premier investigating agency of India, who filed a charge sheet against ex-office bearers of JKCA including Farooq Abdullah. The case of ED is based on a CBI FIR alleging misappropriation of rupees 43.69 crores.

On his birthday, Farooq Abdullah summoned by ED again, questioned for five hours

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested alleged "hawala" dealer Naresh Jain in a money-laundering probe linked to "hawala" transactions worth about ₹ 20,000 crore, officials said on Wednesday.

They said Naresh Jain has been arrested under sections of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and will be produced before a court.

A maze of multiple shell or dubious firms and at least 600 bank accounts are under the scanner of the agency in the case, touted to be one of the biggest hawala and trade-based money-laundering cases of the country.

The officials said Naresh Jain and his associates are being probed for "hawala" or illegal financial transactions, including overseas ones, worth about ₹ 20,000 crore that have been carried out over the last few years.

The agency has also found out about the regular modus operandi of "generations of fake invoices for bogus import and exports" of the accused in the case, with Jain allegedly being the key player.

The Delhi-based businessman was under the scanner of probe agencies for long and in 2016, the ED had slapped a ₹ 1,200-crore notice on him for alleged contravention of the forex law.

According to the agencies, Naresh Jain has allegedly laundered and routed "hawala" funds for years, financed contraband networks and was also arrested by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in the past. 
The ED money-laundering case is based on this NCB complaint. 
 
The agency has been on Naresh Jain's trail since 2009, after he moved his operations to India from Dubai.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested alleged "hawala" dealer Naresh Jain in a money-laundering probe linked to "hawala" transactions worth about ₹ 20,000 crore, officials said on Wednesday.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested alleged "hawala" dealer Naresh Jain in a money-laundering probe linked to "hawala" transactions worth about ₹ 20,000 crore, officials said on Wednesday. They said Naresh Jain has been arrested under sections of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and will be produced before a court. A maze of multiple shell or dubious firms and at least 600 bank accounts are under the scanner of the agency in the case, touted to be one of the biggest hawala and trade-based money-laundering cases of the country. The officials said Naresh Jain and his associates are being probed for "hawala" or illegal financial transactions, including overseas ones, worth about ₹ 20,000 crore that have been carried out over the last few years. The agency has also found out about the regular modus operandi of "generations of fake invoices for bogus import and exports" of the accused in the case, with Jain allegedly being the key player. The Delhi-based businessman was under the scanner of probe agencies for long and in 2016, the ED had slapped a ₹ 1,200-crore notice on him for alleged contravention of the forex law. According to the agencies, Naresh Jain has allegedly laundered and routed "hawala" funds for years, financed contraband networks and was also arrested by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in the past. The ED money-laundering case is based on this NCB complaint. The agency has been on Naresh Jain's trail since 2009, after he moved his operations to India from Dubai.

Probe agency arrests man in Rs 20,000-crore money-laundering case in Delhi 

Assets worth about Rs 2,203 crore of Yes Bank co-founder Rana Kapoor and others have been attached by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) under the anti-money laundering law, officials said on Thursday.

They said properties of DHFL promoter brothers Kapil and Dheeraj Wadhawan have also been attached as part of a provisional order issued by it under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/yes-bank-board-reconstituted-with-immediate-effect-prashant-kumar-to-be-new-md-ceo-288727">Yes Bank board reconstituted with immediate effect; Prashant Kumar to be new MD-CEO</a>

Some foreign assets of Kapoor have also been frozen by the central agency, they said. 
 
Kapoor was arrested by the central probe agency in March and he is at present in judicial custody.

Assets worth about Rs 2,203 crore of Yes Bank co-founder Rana Kapoor and others have been attached by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) under the anti-money laundering law, officials said on Thursday.

Assets worth about Rs 2,203 crore of Yes Bank co-founder Rana Kapoor and others have been attached by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) under the anti-money laundering law, officials said on Thursday. They said properties of DHFL promoter brothers Kapil and Dheeraj Wadhawan have also been attached as part of a provisional order issued by it under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Also read | Yes Bank board reconstituted with immediate effect; Prashant Kumar to be new MD-CEO Some foreign assets of Kapoor have also been frozen by the central agency, they said. Kapoor was arrested by the central probe agency in March and he is at present in judicial custody.

Yes Bank scam: ED attaches over Rs 2,200 crore assets of Rana Kapoor, others

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday said it has attached assets worth Rs 1.30 crore of a former chairman of the Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) on money laundering charges.

A provisional order was issued under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) against Rakesh Kumar Paul for attachment of two flats at Shaktigarh Path, commercial space at Bhangagarh in Guwahati, and Rs 10 lakh cash, which was seized from his premises by police in the past, it said.

Paul was the chairman of the APSC between 2012 and 2019.

The ED slapped criminal charges under the PMLA against Paul on the basis of a state police FIR that alleged irregularities related to recruitment of candidates in the Assam government services through the examination conducted by the APSC.

"Investigation by state police established that Paul along with the other accused hatched a criminal conspiracy and manipulated the system of selection of candidates through APSC in lieu of illegal gratification," the ED said in a statement.

The central agency said its probe found that Paul had invested illegitimate money to purchase various movable and immovable properties in his and his family's name at different locations in the state.

He purchased the properties "at much lower prices as shown in the agreement papers and sale deeds as compared to their market value at the relevant point of time".

"The investigation established that the value of the properties shown in the sale deeds were hugely suppressed by Paul to launder the proceeds of crime," the ED claimed.

Investigation in the case is ongoing, it said.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday said it has attached assets worth Rs 1.30 crore of a former chairman of the Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) on money laundering charges.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday said it has attached assets worth Rs 1.30 crore of a former chairman of the Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) on money laundering charges. A provisional order was issued under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) against Rakesh Kumar Paul for attachment of two flats at Shaktigarh Path, commercial space at Bhangagarh in Guwahati, and Rs 10 lakh cash, which was seized from his premises by police in the past, it said. Paul was the chairman of the APSC between 2012 and 2019. The ED slapped criminal charges under the PMLA against Paul on the basis of a state police FIR that alleged irregularities related to recruitment of candidates in the Assam government services through the examination conducted by the APSC. "Investigation by state police established that Paul along with the other accused hatched a criminal conspiracy and manipulated the system of selection of candidates through APSC in lieu of illegal gratification," the ED said in a statement. The central agency said its probe found that Paul had invested illegitimate money to purchase various movable and immovable properties in his and his family's name at different locations in the state. He purchased the properties "at much lower prices as shown in the agreement papers and sale deeds as compared to their market value at the relevant point of time". "The investigation established that the value of the properties shown in the sale deeds were hugely suppressed by Paul to launder the proceeds of crime," the ED claimed. Investigation in the case is ongoing, it said.

ED attaches Rs 1.30 crore worth assets of ex-Assam Public Service Commission chairman Rakesh Paul

ED Arrested Yes Bank's Founder Rana Kapoor in Money Laundering Case Amid deteriorating health of India's one of the top private bank, the Enforcement Directororate (ED) probe's Yes Bank's founder Rana Kapoor's Mumbai residence. He was later chagred in the money laundering case. And now in the latest coming in over the case, the ED now arrested Rana Kapoor in the same charges.

ED Arrested Yes Bank's Founder Rana Kapoor in Money Laundering Case

The Enforcement Directorate on Saturday widened the investigation into raids against Rana Kapoor at his residence and his three daughters.

ED probe widens amid Yes Bank crisis, raids Rana Kapoor & three daughters' residence

Former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/icici-bank-videocon-case-enforcement-directorate-grills-chanda-kochhar-husband-and-venugopal-dhoot-231310">ICICI Bank Chanda Kochhar</a> and her family's assets worth over Rs 78 crore have been attached in connection with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/icici-videocon-case-court-reserves-order-on-plea-of-rajiv-kochhar-223925">Videocon loan case</a>, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said on Friday.

These assets comprise her flat in Mumbai and some other properties belonging to the company of her husband, Deepak Kocchar.

The ED had registered a criminal case in February last year against Videocon chairman Venugopal Dhoot, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/icici-videocon-case-court-reserves-order-on-plea-of-chanda-kocchars-brother-rajiv-223845">Chanda Kochhar, her husband Deepak Kochhar</a> and others to probe alleged irregularities and corrupt practices in sanctioning Rs 3,250-crore loan by the bank to the corporate group.

A probe was initiated in the case to find out if alleged kickbacks were generated in the loan deal and laundered to create a tainted asset. 
 
(With inputs from ANI)

Former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ICICI Bank Chanda Kochhar and her family's assets worth over Rs 78 crore have been attached in connection with the Videocon loan case, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said on Friday.

Former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ICICI Bank Chanda Kochhar and her family's assets worth over Rs 78 crore have been attached in connection with the Videocon loan case, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said on Friday. These assets comprise her flat in Mumbai and some other properties belonging to the company of her husband, Deepak Kocchar. The ED had registered a criminal case in February last year against Videocon chairman Venugopal Dhoot, Chanda Kochhar, her husband Deepak Kochhar and others to probe alleged irregularities and corrupt practices in sanctioning Rs 3,250-crore loan by the bank to the corporate group. A probe was initiated in the case to find out if alleged kickbacks were generated in the loan deal and laundered to create a tainted asset. (With inputs from ANI)

Videocon loan case: Enforcement Directorate attaches assets worth Rs 78 crore of former ICICI Bank CEO Chanda Kochhar, her husband

Former Finance Minister P Chidambaram, who was released from Delhi's Tihar Jail on Wednesday after being <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-p-chidambaram-gets-bail-from-supreme-court-266087">granted bail</a> in the INX Media money laundering case, on Thursday reached Parliament to attend the ongoing Winter Session.

The senior Congress leader had on Wednesday said that he was happy to have stepped out from the jail and breathing the air of freedom after 106 days.

"I am happy that I have stepped out and breathing the air of freedom after 106 days," he said after meeting Congress president Sonia Gandhi at her residence here.

The apex court set aside the Delhi High Court's order which had refused to grant bail to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/p-chidambaram-to-attend-parliament-from-thursday-karti-chidambaram-266188">Chidambaram</a> and directed him not to tamper with evidence and influence witnesses in the case.

The court has directed Chidambaram not to give press interviews and make public statements with regard to this case. The court also directed him to furnish a bail bond of Rs 2 lakh plus two sureties of the same amount.

Chidambaram had sought the bail in a case pertaining to the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 during his tenure as the Finance Minister.

The CBI had registered a corruption case in this regard in May 2017. Later that year, the ED also lodged a money laundering case against him. The Congress leader was first arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on August 21 this year in the INX

Media corruption case but was granted bail by the Supreme Court two months later.

He was arrested by the ED in the money laundering case on October 16.

Former Finance Minister P Chidambaram, who was released from Delhi's Tihar Jail on Wednesday after being granted bail in the INX Media money laundering case, on Thursday reached Parliament to attend the ongoing Winter Session.

Former Finance Minister P Chidambaram, who was released from Delhi's Tihar Jail on Wednesday after being granted bail in the INX Media money laundering case, on Thursday reached Parliament to attend the ongoing Winter Session. The senior Congress leader had on Wednesday said that he was happy to have stepped out from the jail and breathing the air of freedom after 106 days. "I am happy that I have stepped out and breathing the air of freedom after 106 days," he said after meeting Congress president Sonia Gandhi at her residence here. The apex court set aside the Delhi High Court's order which had refused to grant bail to Chidambaram and directed him not to tamper with evidence and influence witnesses in the case. The court has directed Chidambaram not to give press interviews and make public statements with regard to this case. The court also directed him to furnish a bail bond of Rs 2 lakh plus two sureties of the same amount. Chidambaram had sought the bail in a case pertaining to the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 during his tenure as the Finance Minister. The CBI had registered a corruption case in this regard in May 2017. Later that year, the ED also lodged a money laundering case against him. The Congress leader was first arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on August 21 this year in the INX Media corruption case but was granted bail by the Supreme Court two months later. He was arrested by the ED in the money laundering case on October 16.

P Chidambaram reaches Parliament day after bail grant

The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday granted bail to Congress leader and former Union minister P Chidambaram in the INX Media case lodged by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

India's top court grants bail to P Chidambaram

INX Media case: SC order on P Chidambaram bail plea

India's top court grants bail to P Chidambaram :WION dispatch

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-asks-army-to-decide-on-granting-special-commission-to-female-officers-263289">Supreme Court</a> on Wednesday sought a response from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on an appeal filed by former union finance minister P Chidambaram challenging the Delhi High Court's order dismissing his bail petition in the INX Media money laundering case.

A bench of Justices R Banumathi, A S Bopanna and Hrishikesh Roy issued a notice to the probe agency and posted the matter for hearing to November 26.

Chidambaram sought bail in a case pertaining to the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 by Chidambaram when he was the Finance Minister. He was arrested by the ED on October 16 and is currently in judicial custody.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-delhi-high-court-rejects-p-chidambarams-bail-plea-262420">Denying bail to Chidambaram</a> in the case, the High Court had stated that prima facie allegations against him are "serious in nature" and he played an "active and key role" in the offence.

Senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing on behalf of Chidambaram today, submitted before the top court that their client has been in jail for over 90 days and has cleared the triple test criterion to avail the bail.

Chidambaram had sought bail on the health grounds. The Congress leader also asserted that no part of the triple test, which includes flight risk, influencing witnesses and tampering with evidence, has been made out against him.

He stated that there was no allegation that he was a flight risk following the issuance of a Look out Circular (LOC).

Chidambaram was first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-chidambaram-sent-to-judicial-custody-till-november-13-court-allows-home-cooked-food-258871">arrested by the CBI</a> in a corruption case on August 21. He was, however, granted bail by the Supreme Court in that case on

October 22, but he could not be released from the jail since ED arrested him on October 16 in money laundering case related to the same matter.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday sought a response from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on an appeal filed by former union finance minister P Chidambaram challenging the Delhi High Court's order dismissing his bail petition in the INX Media money laundering case.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday sought a response from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on an appeal filed by former union finance minister P Chidambaram challenging the Delhi High Court's order dismissing his bail petition in the INX Media money laundering case. A bench of Justices R Banumathi, A S Bopanna and Hrishikesh Roy issued a notice to the probe agency and posted the matter for hearing to November 26. Chidambaram sought bail in a case pertaining to the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 by Chidambaram when he was the Finance Minister. He was arrested by the ED on October 16 and is currently in judicial custody. Denying bail to Chidambaram in the case, the High Court had stated that prima facie allegations against him are "serious in nature" and he played an "active and key role" in the offence. Senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing on behalf of Chidambaram today, submitted before the top court that their client has been in jail for over 90 days and has cleared the triple test criterion to avail the bail. Chidambaram had sought bail on the health grounds. The Congress leader also asserted that no part of the triple test, which includes flight risk, influencing witnesses and tampering with evidence, has been made out against him. He stated that there was no allegation that he was a flight risk following the issuance of a Look out Circular (LOC). Chidambaram was first arrested by the CBI in a corruption case on August 21. He was, however, granted bail by the Supreme Court in that case on October 22, but he could not be released from the jail since ED arrested him on October 16 in money laundering case related to the same matter.

INX Media case: Supreme Court issues notice to ED on Chidambaram's bail plea

A special court on Saturday allowed the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to record the statement of Christian Michel, who is an accused in Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper case.

Special Judge Arvind Kumar allowed the ED`s application to record Michel`s statement and further interrogate him on November 5 and November 6 in Tihar jail, where he is lodged in judicial custody.

The court also said two counsels of Michel can remain present for 30 minutes with him to extend legal assistance.

Advocate Naveen Kumar Matta appeared for the ED while Michel was represented by advocate Aljo K Joseph.

Michel is facing the investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the ED in the AgustaWestland case.

Michel allegedly played the role of a middleman in the chopper deal and is currently lodged in Tihar jail in judicial custody in the case being probed by the ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Last month, he approached the Delhi High Court seeking bail in the ED and CBI cases.

The court had on October 24 sought the agencies` response on his bail application before November 13.

Michel was extradited from Dubai last year and is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with alleged irregularities in the chopper deal.

While the CBI is probing his alleged role as a `middleman` in the deal, the ED is investigating money laundering charges against him.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A special court on Saturday allowed the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to record the statement of Christian Michel, who is an accused in Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper case.

A special court on Saturday allowed the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to record the statement of Christian Michel, who is an accused in Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper case. Special Judge Arvind Kumar allowed the ED`s application to record Michel`s statement and further interrogate him on November 5 and November 6 in Tihar jail, where he is lodged in judicial custody. The court also said two counsels of Michel can remain present for 30 minutes with him to extend legal assistance. Advocate Naveen Kumar Matta appeared for the ED while Michel was represented by advocate Aljo K Joseph. Michel is facing the investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the ED in the AgustaWestland case. Michel allegedly played the role of a middleman in the chopper deal and is currently lodged in Tihar jail in judicial custody in the case being probed by the ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Last month, he approached the Delhi High Court seeking bail in the ED and CBI cases. The court had on October 24 sought the agencies` response on his bail application before November 13. Michel was extradited from Dubai last year and is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with alleged irregularities in the chopper deal. While the CBI is probing his alleged role as a `middleman` in the deal, the ED is investigating money laundering charges against him.

Court allows ED to record Christian Michel's statement in AgustaWestland case

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday filed an appeal in the Supreme Court against the Delhi High Court order granting bail to Congress leader DK Shivakumar in alleged connection with a money-laundering case being probed by the agency.

On October 23, the Delhi High Court had granted bail to Shivakumar while taking into note that he had been extensively interrogated by the probe agency since his arrest on September 3.

It had said that there was no material on record to show that he was a flight risk and there was no chance of tampering of evidence as all files are already under the custody of the agency.

Shivakumar had approached the High Court challenging the trial court`s order denying him bail.

He was arrested under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

While granting him the bail, the High Court had asked him not to influence witnesses, tamper with evidence, leave the country without prior permission to the court and make himself available for investigation when required.

The alleged money laundering case was registered against him by the ED in September last year, based on a complaint filed the Income Tax Department, alleging tax evasion and hawala transactions amounting to crores.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday filed an appeal in the Supreme Court against the Delhi High Court order granting bail to Congress leader DK Shivakumar in alleged connection with a money-laundering case being probed by the agency.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday filed an appeal in the Supreme Court against the Delhi High Court order granting bail to Congress leader DK Shivakumar in alleged connection with a money-laundering case being probed by the agency. On October 23, the Delhi High Court had granted bail to Shivakumar while taking into note that he had been extensively interrogated by the probe agency since his arrest on September 3. It had said that there was no material on record to show that he was a flight risk and there was no chance of tampering of evidence as all files are already under the custody of the agency. Shivakumar had approached the High Court challenging the trial court`s order denying him bail. He was arrested under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). While granting him the bail, the High Court had asked him not to influence witnesses, tamper with evidence, leave the country without prior permission to the court and make himself available for investigation when required. The alleged money laundering case was registered against him by the ED in September last year, based on a complaint filed the Income Tax Department, alleging tax evasion and hawala transactions amounting to crores.

Enforcement Directorate moves Supreme Court against Delhi High Court order granting bail to Shivakumar

Joint Commissioner of Police (CP) Vinay Choubey and a team of police on Friday arrived at the residence of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar's residence ahead of his visit to Enforcement Directorate's (ED) office in connection with a money laundering case.

A police team along with sniffer dogs also reached the NCP office in Mumbai.

<iframe data-google-container-id="5" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>"We are well equipped to take care of any eventuality. Section 144 is in place in the whole area. We have taken sufficient precautions. If any violation occurs, we are well equipped to handle that," said DCP Sangram Singh Nishandar, DCP Zone 1, Mumbai Police.

The Mumbai Police on Thursday imposed prohibitory orders in Mumbai's Ballard Estate area in view of Pawar's visit to the ED office.

Ahead of the ED questioning, NCP leader Nawab Malik also reached for meeting Pawar at his residence.

Speaking to media persons he said: "Police are detaining NCP workers in Mumbai and in other parts of the state, it is not right. Sharad Pawar will definitely go to the ED office at 2 pm today. BJP government is misusing Enforcement Directorate."

"From last night itself, the police began the process of detaining NCP workers. We think that this sort of action against the party workers is not at all right. Sharad Pawar did request the party workers not to come but the party workers will definitely assemble at the party office. We don't want any sort of violence," he added.

NCP workers had earlier staged protests after Sharad Pawar along with party leader Ajit Pawar and others were named in an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) in Rs 5,000 crore Maharashtra State Co-operative Bank (MSCB) scam case.

Pawar had earlier stated in a tweet that he would appear before the ED on Friday. He also appealed to the party leaders and supporters not to gather outside the agency's premises.

"Keeping our tradition to honour the constitution and respect for institutions, I request your co-operation to the police and other government agencies," he stated.

Joint Commissioner of Police (CP) Vinay Choubey and a team of police on Friday arrived at the residence of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar's residence ahead of his visit to Enforcement Directorate's (ED) office in connection with a money laundering case.

Joint Commissioner of Police (CP) Vinay Choubey and a team of police on Friday arrived at the residence of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar's residence ahead of his visit to Enforcement Directorate's (ED) office in connection with a money laundering case. A police team along with sniffer dogs also reached the NCP office in Mumbai. "We are well equipped to take care of any eventuality. Section 144 is in place in the whole area. We have taken sufficient precautions. If any violation occurs, we are well equipped to handle that," said DCP Sangram Singh Nishandar, DCP Zone 1, Mumbai Police. The Mumbai Police on Thursday imposed prohibitory orders in Mumbai's Ballard Estate area in view of Pawar's visit to the ED office. Ahead of the ED questioning, NCP leader Nawab Malik also reached for meeting Pawar at his residence. Speaking to media persons he said: "Police are detaining NCP workers in Mumbai and in other parts of the state, it is not right. Sharad Pawar will definitely go to the ED office at 2 pm today. BJP government is misusing Enforcement Directorate." "From last night itself, the police began the process of detaining NCP workers. We think that this sort of action against the party workers is not at all right. Sharad Pawar did request the party workers not to come but the party workers will definitely assemble at the party office. We don't want any sort of violence," he added. NCP workers had earlier staged protests after Sharad Pawar along with party leader Ajit Pawar and others were named in an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) in Rs 5,000 crore Maharashtra State Co-operative Bank (MSCB) scam case. Pawar had earlier stated in a tweet that he would appear before the ED on Friday. He also appealed to the party leaders and supporters not to gather outside the agency's premises. "Keeping our tradition to honour the constitution and respect for institutions, I request your co-operation to the police and other government agencies," he stated.

Maharashtra: Police teams reach Sharad Pawar's residence, NCP office ahead of ED questioning

Businessman Robert Vadra on Tuesday filed a reply in the Delhi High Court on the Enforcement Directorate's plea challenging the anticipatory bail granted to him by a trial court, saying the agency has "no material" to support money laundering allegations against him.

He submitted the ED has only conducted "fishing and roving" enquiries in the case pertaining to money laundering allegations in the purchase of a flat in London.

Contending the allegations against him were "completely false", Vadra said that the "sole purpose of the agency is to cause prejudice in the mind of court and the public" against him.

Replying on the ED's submission of him being a flight risk, Vadra said he returned to India "voluntarily upon reading press reports" about the agency's investigation against him in the case.

The businessman said he has no intention to flee the country and is "determined to stay in India to clear his name".

Vadra also said that he "volunteered to appear before the ED" even before receiving the summons and contended there was "not a single instance of non-cooperation" put before the court.

On the ED's apprehension that he may tamper with evidence, Vadra said there is no risk of tampering as the agency has "already seized every last document".

"No specific allegation has been made by the agency to suggest that the Vadra has, in any way, attempted to or actually succeeded in tampering with any evidence or witness," the reply read.

Vadra, husband of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, said he does not own any property outside India and denied allegations of receiving kickbacks for "any deal".

Earlier, Vadra had sought more time to file the reply on the ED's petition as he was abroad.

Justice Chander Shekhar will hear the matter on Thursday. The ED had moved the high court against the trial court's order granting him anticipatory bail, stating that Vadra "is likely to tamper with evidence and influence witnesses".

"The special judge (trial court) has failed to appreciate that the respondent is a highly influential person. If he is granted blanket protection of bail, there is all likelihood that the respondent shall tamper with evidence," the agency stated in the high court.

It claimed Vadra was evasive during questioning and sought his custodial interrogation.

The case relates to money laundering allegations in the purchase of a London-based property worth 1.9 million pounds.

The ED had said it wanted to question Vadra about the source of funds used for the purchase of the flat and ascertain the role of other people, who allegedly helped him launder money.

The agency also alleged that Vadra's aide Manoj Arora helped him launder money and was aware of his overseas undeclared assets and was instrumental in arranging funds for buying the flat.

It contended the anticipatory bail to Vadra and Arora "interferes" in the investigation into the case.

"It is right to say that anticipatory bail, to some extent, intrudes in the sphere of investigation of crime and that the courts must be cautious and circumspect while exercising such power," the ED said.

On April 1, Special CBI Judge Arvind Kumar granted anticipatory bail to Vadra and Arora, directing them to furnish a personal bond of Rs 5 lakh each and surety of like amount.

The court asked them not to leave the country without permission and join the probe when called upon by the agency. It also directed them not to tamper with evidence or influence witnesses.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Businessman Robert Vadra on Tuesday filed a reply in the Delhi High Court on the Enforcement Directorate's plea challenging the anticipatory bail granted to him by a trial court, saying the agency has "no material" to support money laundering allegations against him.

Businessman Robert Vadra on Tuesday filed a reply in the Delhi High Court on the Enforcement Directorate's plea challenging the anticipatory bail granted to him by a trial court, saying the agency has "no material" to support money laundering allegations against him. He submitted the ED has only conducted "fishing and roving" enquiries in the case pertaining to money laundering allegations in the purchase of a flat in London. Contending the allegations against him were "completely false", Vadra said that the "sole purpose of the agency is to cause prejudice in the mind of court and the public" against him. Replying on the ED's submission of him being a flight risk, Vadra said he returned to India "voluntarily upon reading press reports" about the agency's investigation against him in the case. The businessman said he has no intention to flee the country and is "determined to stay in India to clear his name". Vadra also said that he "volunteered to appear before the ED" even before receiving the summons and contended there was "not a single instance of non-cooperation" put before the court. On the ED's apprehension that he may tamper with evidence, Vadra said there is no risk of tampering as the agency has "already seized every last document". "No specific allegation has been made by the agency to suggest that the Vadra has, in any way, attempted to or actually succeeded in tampering with any evidence or witness," the reply read. Vadra, husband of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, said he does not own any property outside India and denied allegations of receiving kickbacks for "any deal". Earlier, Vadra had sought more time to file the reply on the ED's petition as he was abroad. Justice Chander Shekhar will hear the matter on Thursday. The ED had moved the high court against the trial court's order granting him anticipatory bail, stating that Vadra "is likely to tamper with evidence and influence witnesses". "The special judge (trial court) has failed to appreciate that the respondent is a highly influential person. If he is granted blanket protection of bail, there is all likelihood that the respondent shall tamper with evidence," the agency stated in the high court. It claimed Vadra was evasive during questioning and sought his custodial interrogation. The case relates to money laundering allegations in the purchase of a London-based property worth 1.9 million pounds. The ED had said it wanted to question Vadra about the source of funds used for the purchase of the flat and ascertain the role of other people, who allegedly helped him launder money. The agency also alleged that Vadra's aide Manoj Arora helped him launder money and was aware of his overseas undeclared assets and was instrumental in arranging funds for buying the flat. It contended the anticipatory bail to Vadra and Arora "interferes" in the investigation into the case. "It is right to say that anticipatory bail, to some extent, intrudes in the sphere of investigation of crime and that the courts must be cautious and circumspect while exercising such power," the ED said. On April 1, Special CBI Judge Arvind Kumar granted anticipatory bail to Vadra and Arora, directing them to furnish a personal bond of Rs 5 lakh each and surety of like amount. The court asked them not to leave the country without permission and join the probe when called upon by the agency. It also directed them not to tamper with evidence or influence witnesses.

No material to support money laundering allegations by Enforcement Directorate: Robert Vadra to court

A special court will hear the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation`s arguments and submission in anticipatory bail plea moved by senior Congress leader and former union minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram in connection with the Aircel-Maxis case on September 2.

Earlier, District Judge OP Saini has extended the interim protection from the arrest of father-son duo till September 3 and reserved its order on the anticipatory bail petition.

The court was irked by the agencies for seeking further adjournment in the case.

The court reserved the order on the pre-arrest bail after the two probe agencies had sought a fresh date to present their arguments.

Earlier on August 1, Kapil Sibal, while arguing for the anticipatory bail of the duo, had contended that the investigation in the case stands completed and that the charge sheet has also been filed by both the agencies.

"Karti was called for questioning eight times in 2018 and four times in 2019 by the ED, while his father has only been called once by the CBI in 2014. The agencies cannot say that my client has not cooperated with them," Sibal had said.

He had said that if later the agencies find a ground, they can move a cancellation application.

"How many times will they seek adjournment? They have no grounds to prove that my client has done anything wrong. The agencies are making allegations without producing anything," the counsel had said.

The case, which is being probed by the CBI and ED, relates to alleged irregularities in grant of Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) approval in the Aircel-Maxis deal.

The FIPB approval was allegedly granted in 2006 when Chidambaram was the Union finance minister.

According to rules and foreign direct investment (FDI) policy of the Central government, Chidambaram was only empowered to give approval to proposals involving foreign investment up to Rs 600 crore.&nbsp;

 
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A special court will hear the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation`s arguments and submission in anticipatory bail plea moved by senior Congress leader and former union minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram in connection with the Aircel-Maxis case on September 2.

A special court will hear the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation`s arguments and submission in anticipatory bail plea moved by senior Congress leader and former union minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram in connection with the Aircel-Maxis case on September 2. Earlier, District Judge OP Saini has extended the interim protection from the arrest of father-son duo till September 3 and reserved its order on the anticipatory bail petition. The court was irked by the agencies for seeking further adjournment in the case. The court reserved the order on the pre-arrest bail after the two probe agencies had sought a fresh date to present their arguments. Earlier on August 1, Kapil Sibal, while arguing for the anticipatory bail of the duo, had contended that the investigation in the case stands completed and that the charge sheet has also been filed by both the agencies. "Karti was called for questioning eight times in 2018 and four times in 2019 by the ED, while his father has only been called once by the CBI in 2014. The agencies cannot say that my client has not cooperated with them," Sibal had said. He had said that if later the agencies find a ground, they can move a cancellation application. "How many times will they seek adjournment? They have no grounds to prove that my client has done anything wrong. The agencies are making allegations without producing anything," the counsel had said. The case, which is being probed by the CBI and ED, relates to alleged irregularities in grant of Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) approval in the Aircel-Maxis deal. The FIPB approval was allegedly granted in 2006 when Chidambaram was the Union finance minister. According to rules and foreign direct investment (FDI) policy of the Central government, Chidambaram was only empowered to give approval to proposals involving foreign investment up to Rs 600 crore.

Special court to hear ED, CBI's argument on Chidambaram's bail plea on September 2

No immediate relief for P Chidamabaram from the Supreme Court. The case has been forwarded to Chief justice of India Ranjan Gogoi. Watch full video to know more.

Chidambaram INX Media case: Ranjan Gogoi to decide on urgent hearing of plea after lunch

A day after Kamal Nath's nephew <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/agustawestland-vvip-chopper-case-madhya-pradesh-cm-kamal-naths-nephew-ratul-puri-arrested-by-enforcement-directorate-in-rs-354-crore-bank-fraud-case-244275">Ratul Puri was arrested </a>by Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a bank fraud case, the Madhya Pradesh chief minister on Tuesday said he has no connection with the business his nephew is doing.

"I have no connection with the business they are doing. To me, it appears to be a purely mala fide action. I have full faith that courts will take corrective stand in this," ANI news agency quoted Kamal Nath.

Puri was booked by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday for alleged criminal conspiracy, cheating, forgery and corruption on the complaint filed by Murali Chetturi, a deputy general manager of Central Bank of India. 
 
His father and Managing Director Deepak Puri, Directors Nita Puri (Ratul's mother and Kamal Nath's sister), Sanjay Jain and Vineet Sharma were also booked by the agency.

The case against Ratul Puri pertains to alleged irregularities in the purchase of 12 VVIP choppers from Italy-based firm AgustaWestland.&nbsp;

The deal was scrapped by the NDA government in 2014 over the alleged breach of contractual obligations and charges of payment of kickbacks for securing the deal. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

A day after Kamal Nath's nephew Ratul Puri was arrested by Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a bank fraud case, the Madhya Pradesh chief minister on Tuesday said he has no connection with the business his nephew is doing.

A day after Kamal Nath's nephew Ratul Puri was arrested by Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a bank fraud case, the Madhya Pradesh chief minister on Tuesday said he has no connection with the business his nephew is doing. "I have no connection with the business they are doing. To me, it appears to be a purely mala fide action. I have full faith that courts will take corrective stand in this," ANI news agency quoted Kamal Nath. Puri was booked by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday for alleged criminal conspiracy, cheating, forgery and corruption on the complaint filed by Murali Chetturi, a deputy general manager of Central Bank of India. His father and Managing Director Deepak Puri, Directors Nita Puri (Ratul's mother and Kamal Nath's sister), Sanjay Jain and Vineet Sharma were also booked by the agency. The case against Ratul Puri pertains to alleged irregularities in the purchase of 12 VVIP choppers from Italy-based firm AgustaWestland. The deal was scrapped by the NDA government in 2014 over the alleged breach of contractual obligations and charges of payment of kickbacks for securing the deal. (With inputs from agencies)

No connection with nephew Ratul Puri's business: Kamal Nath

Former TMC MP Kunal Ghosh on Wednesday appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for questioning in connection with Saradha chit fund case.&nbsp;

The ED had on Monday summoned Ghosh to appear before it. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had earlier questioned Ghosh and Rajeev Kumar, who headed the Special Investigation Team of the state police that probed the multi-crore scam case. Ghosh was arrested by the state police on November 23, 2013.&nbsp;

He sent to CBI custody on September 4, 2014 after the agency took over the investigation on the orders of the Supreme Court. In 2016, the Calcutta High Court had granted interim bail to Ghosh against a bond of Rs 2 lakh.&nbsp;

Kumar, the former Kolkata Police commissioner, is accused of tampering with evidence in the case.&nbsp;

The CBI had earlier said that there was prima facie evidence against Kumar that he "tried to destroy or tamper with evidence and shield high and mighty" in the case. The probe agency had claimed that Kumar did not disclose any crucial information he was privy to.&nbsp;

An unprecedented chain of events unfolded on February 3 when a CBI team was detained by Kolkata Police when it reached Kumar`s residence to question him.&nbsp;

It was followed by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's visit to the officer`s home. The CBI officers were taken into police custody and later released.

 
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Former TMC MP Kunal Ghosh on Wednesday appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for questioning in connection with Saradha chit fund case. The ED had on Monday summoned Ghosh to appear before it.

Former TMC MP Kunal Ghosh on Wednesday appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for questioning in connection with Saradha chit fund case. The ED had on Monday summoned Ghosh to appear before it. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had earlier questioned Ghosh and Rajeev Kumar, who headed the Special Investigation Team of the state police that probed the multi-crore scam case. Ghosh was arrested by the state police on November 23, 2013. He sent to CBI custody on September 4, 2014 after the agency took over the investigation on the orders of the Supreme Court. In 2016, the Calcutta High Court had granted interim bail to Ghosh against a bond of Rs 2 lakh. Kumar, the former Kolkata Police commissioner, is accused of tampering with evidence in the case. The CBI had earlier said that there was prima facie evidence against Kumar that he "tried to destroy or tamper with evidence and shield high and mighty" in the case. The probe agency had claimed that Kumar did not disclose any crucial information he was privy to. An unprecedented chain of events unfolded on February 3 when a CBI team was detained by Kolkata Police when it reached Kumar`s residence to question him. It was followed by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's visit to the officer`s home. The CBI officers were taken into police custody and later released.

Saradha chit fund case: Former TMC MP Kunal Ghosh appears before Enforcement Directorate

Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday filed a supplementary charge sheet in the Delhi High Court in connection with a money laundering case against RJD leader Misa Bharti and her husband Shailendra Kumar. 
 
The court is slated to consider the charge sheet on July 27. Misa is the daughter of RJD chief Lalu Yadav. 
 
Misa and Shailesh's involvement is being probed in a money laundering case worth Rs. 8,000 crore, investigation for which began in July, in 2017. 
 
The duo had allegedly converted black money into white money through the shell company of two businessmen -- Surendra Jain and Virender Jain. 
 
The accused businessmen were granted bail in January last year, on personal bonds of Rs 2 lakh each. 
 
The couple was also granted bail by a Special CBI court in the case, on a condition that they cannot leave the country without the Court's permission.&nbsp;

Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday filed a supplementary charge sheet in the Delhi High Court in connection with a money laundering case against RJD leader Misa Bharti and her husband Shailendra Kumar.

Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday filed a supplementary charge sheet in the Delhi High Court in connection with a money laundering case against RJD leader Misa Bharti and her husband Shailendra Kumar. The court is slated to consider the charge sheet on July 27. Misa is the daughter of RJD chief Lalu Yadav. Misa and Shailesh's involvement is being probed in a money laundering case worth Rs. 8,000 crore, investigation for which began in July, in 2017. The duo had allegedly converted black money into white money through the shell company of two businessmen -- Surendra Jain and Virender Jain. The accused businessmen were granted bail in January last year, on personal bonds of Rs 2 lakh each. The couple was also granted bail by a Special CBI court in the case, on a condition that they cannot leave the country without the Court's permission.

Enforcement Directorate files supplementary charge sheet against Misa Bharti, her husband

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on Monday said that his country has the right not to extradite controversial <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/zakir-naik-alleges-political-witch-hunt-after-interpol-takes-up-indias-red-corner-notice-against-him-213362">Islamic preacher Zakir Naik</a> to India, since the fugitive evangelist claims he will not get a fair trial back home, according to a media report.

Naik, a 53-year-old radical television preacher, reportedly left India in 2016 and subsequently moved to largely Malaysia, where he was granted permanent residency.

"Zakir in general feels that he is not going to get a fair trial (in India)," Mahathir was quoted as saying by The Star newspaper.

He compared the situation to Australia refusing to extradite former police commando Sirul Azhar Umar, who was sentenced to death in Malaysia in 2015 for killing a Mongolian model.

"We requested Australia to extradite Sirul and they are afraid we are going to send him to the gallows," the prime minister said.

Naik was booked by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in 2016 based on a National Investigation Agency FIR that was registered under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act.

The ED last month said that Naik received crores of funds in his and his trusts' bank accounts from unidentified "well wishers" over the years for his speeches that spread "hatred and incited Muslim youths" to take up terrorism.

The Islamic Research Foundation (IRF), Mumbai-based charity trust promoted and controlled by Naik, "allegedly received funds in the form of donations and zakat (a form of alms giving in Islam) from domestic as well as overseas donors from countries like the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Malaysia among others," the ED said.&nbsp;

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on Monday said that his country has the right not to extradite controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik to India, since the fugitive evangelist claims he will not get a fair trial back home, according to a media report.

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on Monday said that his country has the right not to extradite controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik to India, since the fugitive evangelist claims he will not get a fair trial back home, according to a media report. Naik, a 53-year-old radical television preacher, reportedly left India in 2016 and subsequently moved to largely Malaysia, where he was granted permanent residency. "Zakir in general feels that he is not going to get a fair trial (in India)," Mahathir was quoted as saying by The Star newspaper. He compared the situation to Australia refusing to extradite former police commando Sirul Azhar Umar, who was sentenced to death in Malaysia in 2015 for killing a Mongolian model. "We requested Australia to extradite Sirul and they are afraid we are going to send him to the gallows," the prime minister said. Naik was booked by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in 2016 based on a National Investigation Agency FIR that was registered under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act. The ED last month said that Naik received crores of funds in his and his trusts' bank accounts from unidentified "well wishers" over the years for his speeches that spread "hatred and incited Muslim youths" to take up terrorism. The Islamic Research Foundation (IRF), Mumbai-based charity trust promoted and controlled by Naik, "allegedly received funds in the form of donations and zakat (a form of alms giving in Islam) from domestic as well as overseas donors from countries like the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Malaysia among others," the ED said.

Malaysia has right not to extradite Zakir Naik to India: PM Mahathir Mohamad

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