Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;has made his first public remarks on the contentious electoral bond scheme that was scrapped by the nation's Supreme Court in March 2024.&nbsp;

During an interview with Thanti TV, a prominent Tamil news channel, he warned that those criticising the use of electoral bonds will "soon regret it."

<h2>'We could trace source of funding'</h2>

During the interview that was telecast on Sunday (Mar 31), Modi said, "People who are protesting against electoral bonds will soon regret it."

"Before 2014, there was no trail of funds given to political parties during elections. I introduced the electoral bonds. Thanks to the electoral bonds, we can now trace the source of funding," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-launches-scathing-attack-on-opposition-india-alliance-india-still-paying-for-misdoings-of-congress-706292">PM Modi launches scathing attack on opposition INDIA alliance; ‘India still paying for misdoings of Congress’</a>

Dismissing suggestions that it was a setback, Modi, as per media reports, asked, "Tell me what I did to cause a setback?"

"Those who are happy about it today will regret tomorrow. I ask these experts—how many elections were held before 2014? There must have been expenses in those elections, right? Can any organisation tell where that money came from?"

"Today Modi has created election documents; that’s why you can search about it. You can find out who gave the money and who received it. Otherwise, no one knows where the money came from. Elections happened before too … Today, you know these details through election documents."

"Every issue may have some flaws. But if these flaws are fixed, it can be corrected," he added.

<h2>PM Modi on ED misuse allegations</h2>

The Indian Prime Minister also denied allegations of misuse of central agencies against opposition parties.

During the interview, he said that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and other agencies operate independently.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-hits-out-at-dmk-says-new-details-on-katchatheevu-unmasked-partys-double-standards-706401">PM Modi hits out at DMK, says new details on Katchatheevu unmasked party's double standards</a>

"We neither obstruct nor direct its actions; it should work independently and is evaluated by the scales of the judiciary."

"Currently, ED has around 7,000 cases, of which less than 3 per cent involve politicians. Out of these 7,000 cases, only 3 per cent are politically related."&nbsp;

"During their (the opposition's) 10-year rule, the amount of money they [ED] seized was only Rs 35 lakh (USD 41,966), while we have seized Rs 2,200 crore (263.7 million)," he claimed.

Watch | India: No system is perfect says Indian PM Modi on electoral bonds scheme

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Addressing the perception that central agencies target only opposition leaders and not those from the BJP, he said, "Regardless of the party, the process is the same. ED cannot initiate any case on its own; various departments need to file the cases first, then ED takes action… The PMLA law has existed since before, but they did not use it."

"Over 150 court cases were filed to exempt the PMLA law, and they even went to the Supreme Court to remove or retain an officer. They used the judiciary as a weapon because they know Modi's actions against corruption won't stop. They think they can stop these organisations through the courts," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made his first public remarks on the contentious electoral bond scheme that was scrapped by the nation's Supreme Court in March 2024.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made his first public remarks on the contentious electoral bond scheme that was scrapped by the nation's Supreme Court in March 2024. During an interview with Thanti TV, a prominent Tamil news channel, he warned that those criticising the use of electoral bonds will "soon regret it." 'We could trace source of funding' During the interview that was telecast on Sunday (Mar 31), Modi said, "People who are protesting against electoral bonds will soon regret it." "Before 2014, there was no trail of funds given to political parties during elections. I introduced the electoral bonds. Thanks to the electoral bonds, we can now trace the source of funding," he added. Also read | PM Modi launches scathing attack on opposition INDIA alliance; ‘India still paying for misdoings of Congress’ Dismissing suggestions that it was a setback, Modi, as per media reports, asked, "Tell me what I did to cause a setback?" "Those who are happy about it today will regret tomorrow. I ask these experts—how many elections were held before 2014? There must have been expenses in those elections, right? Can any organisation tell where that money came from?" "Today Modi has created election documents; that’s why you can search about it. You can find out who gave the money and who received it. Otherwise, no one knows where the money came from. Elections happened before too … Today, you know these details through election documents." "Every issue may have some flaws. But if these flaws are fixed, it can be corrected," he added. PM Modi on ED misuse allegations The Indian Prime Minister also denied allegations of misuse of central agencies against opposition parties. During the interview, he said that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and other agencies operate independently. Also read | PM Modi hits out at DMK, says new details on Katchatheevu unmasked party's double standards "We neither obstruct nor direct its actions; it should work independently and is evaluated by the scales of the judiciary." "Currently, ED has around 7,000 cases, of which less than 3 per cent involve politicians. Out of these 7,000 cases, only 3 per cent are politically related." "During their (the opposition's) 10-year rule, the amount of money they [ED] seized was only Rs 35 lakh (USD 41,966), while we have seized Rs 2,200 crore (263.7 million)," he claimed. Watch | India: No system is perfect says Indian PM Modi on electoral bonds scheme Addressing the perception that central agencies target only opposition leaders and not those from the BJP, he said, "Regardless of the party, the process is the same. ED cannot initiate any case on its own; various departments need to file the cases first, then ED takes action… The PMLA law has existed since before, but they did not use it." "Over 150 court cases were filed to exempt the PMLA law, and they even went to the Supreme Court to remove or retain an officer. They used the judiciary as a weapon because they know Modi's actions against corruption won't stop. They think they can stop these organisations through the courts," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

They'll 'soon regret it': Modi defends electoral bond scheme, rejects opposition allegations of ED misuse

The Enforcement Directorate on Saturday (Mar 30) arrested suspended Trinamool Congress leader Shajahan Sheikh in connection with a PMLA case.

The development came as the probe agency interrogated him at the Basirhat Sub Correctional Home, where he is currently lodged.&nbsp;

He is set to be produced before the ED Special Court.&nbsp;

Shahjahan, who has also been accused of forcefully occupying lands in the Sandeshkhali area, was questioned inside the prison for over four hours after receiving permission from the Basirhat sub-divisional court in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal.

He was arrested on February 29 by the West Bengal Police over an attack that was carried out by his supporters on a team of ED officials.

The probe agency team members were attacked by the mob while they were on their way to conduct a raid on Shahjahan's house in Sandeshkhali over an alleged ration scam on January 5.

He was arrested after being on the run on for over 55 days following violent protests led by women, alleging sexual atrocities and land grabs.

Shahjahan was suspended by the Trinamool Congress for six years following his arrest.

The case was transferred by the Calcutta High Court to CBI on March 6.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/they-only-know-how-to-cook-congress-mla-gets-embroiled-in-controversy-over-sexist-remark-705887">'They only know how to cook': Congress MLA gets embroiled in controversy over sexist remark</a>

<h2>CBI arrests Shahjahan's brother for involvement in Sandeshkhali ED assault case</h2>

Earlier this month, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had arrested three accused over involvement in the Sandeshkhali ED assault case, including Shahjahan's brother.

The accused were identified as Mafujar Molla, Sirajul Molla and Sheikh Alomgir.

A total of six people have so far been arrested by the CBI in the case and a probe is underway.

<h2>NCW submits report on Sandeshkhali to President</h2>

Rekha Sharma, who is the National Commission for Women chairperson, met President Droupadi Murmu earlier this month and submitted a report on the Sandeshkhali violence, the India-based news agency PTI reported citing sources. The commission recommended the President's Rule in West Bengal over the Sandeshkhali violence.

A fact-finding report was also prepared by the commission which said that it has gathered disturbing testimonies of women alleging widespread fear and systematic abuse by both police officers and members of the ruling Trinamool Congress.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Enforcement Directorate on Saturday (Mar 30) arrested suspended Trinamool Congress leader Shajahan Sheikh in connection with a PMLA case. The development came as the probe agency interrogated him at the Basirhat Sub Correctional Home, where he is currently lodged.

The Enforcement Directorate on Saturday (Mar 30) arrested suspended Trinamool Congress leader Shajahan Sheikh in connection with a PMLA case. The development came as the probe agency interrogated him at the Basirhat Sub Correctional Home, where he is currently lodged. He is set to be produced before the ED Special Court. Shahjahan, who has also been accused of forcefully occupying lands in the Sandeshkhali area, was questioned inside the prison for over four hours after receiving permission from the Basirhat sub-divisional court in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. He was arrested on February 29 by the West Bengal Police over an attack that was carried out by his supporters on a team of ED officials. The probe agency team members were attacked by the mob while they were on their way to conduct a raid on Shahjahan's house in Sandeshkhali over an alleged ration scam on January 5. He was arrested after being on the run on for over 55 days following violent protests led by women, alleging sexual atrocities and land grabs. Shahjahan was suspended by the Trinamool Congress for six years following his arrest. The case was transferred by the Calcutta High Court to CBI on March 6. Also read: 'They only know how to cook': Congress MLA gets embroiled in controversy over sexist remark CBI arrests Shahjahan's brother for involvement in Sandeshkhali ED assault case Earlier this month, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had arrested three accused over involvement in the Sandeshkhali ED assault case, including Shahjahan's brother. The accused were identified as Mafujar Molla, Sirajul Molla and Sheikh Alomgir. A total of six people have so far been arrested by the CBI in the case and a probe is underway. NCW submits report on Sandeshkhali to President Rekha Sharma, who is the National Commission for Women chairperson, met President Droupadi Murmu earlier this month and submitted a report on the Sandeshkhali violence, the India-based news agency PTI reported citing sources. The commission recommended the President's Rule in West Bengal over the Sandeshkhali violence. A fact-finding report was also prepared by the commission which said that it has gathered disturbing testimonies of women alleging widespread fear and systematic abuse by both police officers and members of the ruling Trinamool Congress. (With inputs from agencies)

Enforcement Directorate arrests Trinamool leader Sheikh Shahjahan in PMLA case

Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot on Saturday (Mar 30) appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for questioning in the Delhi excise policy case. The case is related to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government’s excise policy for 2021-22, which was later scrapped.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders including former Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia, former health minister Satyendar Jain, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh are in jail in connection with the case.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hope-everyones-rights-are-protected-un-reacts-to-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwals-arrest-705495">'Hope everyone's rights are protected...': UN reacts to Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's arrest</a>

Gahlot, who is also handling the cabinet's home and law departments, was seen entering the ED office around 11.30 am local time. Sources told the news agency PTI that Gahlot, 49, was asked to appear for questioning in the case and get his statement recorded under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

He is expected to be questioned over the formulation of the excise policy as&nbsp;he was part of the Group of Ministers (GoM), along with Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain, on the preparation and implementation of the liquor scheme for 2021-22.

Also watch | Delhi CM's wife&nbsp;launches WhatsApp campaign to garner support

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In its chargesheet, the central agency said that Gahlot handled a single SIM number but his IMEI (international mobile equipment identity) was changed thrice. The agency mentioned the 49-year-old minister's name in the chargesheet and in the context of Vijay Nair, the AAP communications in-charge arrested earlier in the case, saying Nair lived in the government bungalow allotted to Gahlot.

Describing this practice of allowing the use of a government residence to someone else by a public servant as a “criminal breach of trust”, the ED said it asked the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take action in the matter.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot on Saturday (Mar 30) appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for questioning in the Delhi excise policy case. The case is related to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government’s excise policy for 2021-22, which was later scrapped.

Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot on Saturday (Mar 30) appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for questioning in the Delhi excise policy case. The case is related to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government’s excise policy for 2021-22, which was later scrapped. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders including former Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia, former health minister Satyendar Jain, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh are in jail in connection with the case. Also read | 'Hope everyone's rights are protected...': UN reacts to Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's arrest Gahlot, who is also handling the cabinet's home and law departments, was seen entering the ED office around 11.30 am local time. Sources told the news agency PTI that Gahlot, 49, was asked to appear for questioning in the case and get his statement recorded under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). He is expected to be questioned over the formulation of the excise policy as he was part of the Group of Ministers (GoM), along with Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain, on the preparation and implementation of the liquor scheme for 2021-22. Also watch | Delhi CM's wife launches WhatsApp campaign to garner support × In its chargesheet, the central agency said that Gahlot handled a single SIM number but his IMEI (international mobile equipment identity) was changed thrice. The agency mentioned the 49-year-old minister's name in the chargesheet and in the context of Vijay Nair, the AAP communications in-charge arrested earlier in the case, saying Nair lived in the government bungalow allotted to Gahlot. Describing this practice of allowing the use of a government residence to someone else by a public servant as a “criminal breach of trust”, the ED said it asked the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take action in the matter. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Minister Kailash Gahlot appears before ED in excise policy case

The Delhi high court on Wednesday refused to grant any relief to chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, who had filed a plea against his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the excise policy case. The court granted ED seven days to respond and fixed April 3 as the next date for hearing.

No interim relief for Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi HC to hear plea on April 3

The Enforcement Directorate has issued fresh summons to Trinamool Congress leader Mahua Moitra and businessman Darshan Hiranandani in a case related to contravention of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).

The Enforcement Directorate has issued fresh summons to Trinamool Congress leader Mahua Moitra and businessman Darshan Hiranandani in a case related to contravention of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). The two have been ordered to report for questioning on March 28. Previously, Darshan Hiranandani, a Dubai-based businessman, was summoned by the agency in a FEMA case against his Mumbai-based real estate group. Earlier, his father, Niranjan Hiranandani, had appeared before the ED in Mumbai. It has been reported that Mahua Moitra was summoned twice by the ED, but she declined to appear, citing official work, and requested a deferral of the notice. Recently, an advocate who is allegedly connected to Moitra was questioned by the ED on Wednesday at its office in New Delhi, according to PTI. The Central Bureau of Investigation conducted a raid at the premises of Mahua Moitra in connection with the cash-for-query case, following the directive of the anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal, to investigate the allegations made against her by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey. Who is Darshan Hiranandani? Darshan Hiranandani is the son of the property tycoon Niranjan Hiranandani and he heads his family-run property empire. He is primarily engaged in managing the company's international real estate projects. His firm has set up projects in multiple Indian cities including Bengaluru, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Hyderabad. Hiranandani Group is also expanding its business in upcoming sectors such as data centres, cloud computing, energy, and industrial warehousing. Apart from holding a key post in the Hiranandani Group, Darshan also holds leadership roles in H-Energy Pvt, where he oversees the operation of data centres in Navi Mumbai and Noida. His father, Niranjan Hiranandani, has a net worth of over $1.4 billion. Why has ED summoned Darshan Hiranandani? BJP MP, Nishikant Dubey, has accused Mahua Moitra of accepting cash and gifts from Darshan Hiranandani in exchange for asking questions in the House that would attack industrialist Gautam Adani and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, among others. Dubey's allegations were based on a complaint filed by advocate Jai Dehadrai, who alleged that Moitra compromised national security in return for gifts and cash from Hiranandani. Based on this complaint, the Lok Sabha ethics committee had decided to expel Moitra from Parliament. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Darshan Hiranandani? Why has ED summoned him in FEMA case linked to Mahua Moitra?

At a time when Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal languishes in jail after raids by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), the agency has now launched a money laundering investigation against the daughter of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Veena, her IT company, and several others.

Media reports said that the probe is in connection to the alleged illegal payments of Rs 1.72 crore ($203k) from a private mineral firm - Cochin Minerals And Rutile Ltd (CMRL) - to Veena Vijayan's company, Exalogic Solutions.

The alleged payments were reportedly made between 2018 and 2019 even as no services were rendered by the IT company to the private firm.&nbsp;ED reportedly registered a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and will now issue summons to individuals linked with the case.

This action comes after the agency took note of the investigation by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO), a wing of the Union corporate affairs ministry.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/uttarakhand-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-candidates-all-you-need-to-know-704791">Uttarakhand Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, phase, seats, candidates; all you need to know</a>

The SFIO is probing into transactions suspected to be illicit gratuities for favours granted by the Kerala government to the mining firm for mineral sand extraction from Alappuzha and Kollam coastal areas.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-mayors-daughter-goes-missing-during-goa-retreat-found-after-2-days-704743">Nepal mayor's daughter goes missing during Goa retreat, found after 2 days</a>

In response to the ED's move, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) accused the agency of functioning as a tool of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

However, the political party Congress has dismissed it as a mere diversionary tactic to conceal the alleged CPI(M)-BJP alliance in Kerala.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/arvind-kejriwal-arrested-delhi-assembly-adjourned-as-aap-mlas-protest-704792">Arvind Kejriwal arrested: Delhi Assembly adjourned as AAP MLAs protest</a>

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Congress' V D Satheesan also alleged the involvement of spiritual guide Sri M as a mediator in the purported CPI(M)-BJP and RSS alliance. He suggested that Kerala government leased four acres of land to Sri M. The developments comes political tensions in Kerala have intensified ahead of the general elections.&nbsp;

Earlier, following a probe ordered by the Centre, SFIO had set up a six-member team to initiate the investigation. In February, a SIFO&nbsp;team raided CMRL corporate office in Aluva.&nbsp;

The Registrar of Companies (RoC) in a report had stated that Exalogic neglected to provide the requested documents. Additionally, the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC) came under scrutiny as the government-owned PSU holds shares in CMRL.

(With inputs from agencies)

At a time when Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal languishes in jail after raids by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), the agency has now launched a money laundering investigation against the daughter of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Veena, her IT company, and several others.

At a time when Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal languishes in jail after raids by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), the agency has now launched a money laundering investigation against the daughter of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Veena, her IT company, and several others. Media reports said that the probe is in connection to the alleged illegal payments of Rs 1.72 crore ($203k) from a private mineral firm - Cochin Minerals And Rutile Ltd (CMRL) - to Veena Vijayan's company, Exalogic Solutions. The alleged payments were reportedly made between 2018 and 2019 even as no services were rendered by the IT company to the private firm. ED reportedly registered a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and will now issue summons to individuals linked with the case. This action comes after the agency took note of the investigation by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO), a wing of the Union corporate affairs ministry. Also Read | Uttarakhand Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, phase, seats, candidates; all you need to know The SFIO is probing into transactions suspected to be illicit gratuities for favours granted by the Kerala government to the mining firm for mineral sand extraction from Alappuzha and Kollam coastal areas. Also Read | Nepal mayor's daughter goes missing during Goa retreat, found after 2 days In response to the ED's move, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) accused the agency of functioning as a tool of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). However, the political party Congress has dismissed it as a mere diversionary tactic to conceal the alleged CPI(M)-BJP alliance in Kerala. Watch | Arvind Kejriwal arrested: Delhi Assembly adjourned as AAP MLAs protest × Congress' V D Satheesan also alleged the involvement of spiritual guide Sri M as a mediator in the purported CPI(M)-BJP and RSS alliance. He suggested that Kerala government leased four acres of land to Sri M. The developments comes political tensions in Kerala have intensified ahead of the general elections. Earlier, following a probe ordered by the Centre, SFIO had set up a six-member team to initiate the investigation. In February, a SIFO team raided CMRL corporate office in Aluva. The Registrar of Companies (RoC) in a report had stated that Exalogic neglected to provide the requested documents. Additionally, the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC) came under scrutiny as the government-owned PSU holds shares in CMRL. (With inputs from agencies)

Kerala CM’s daughter, her IT firm under ED radar as agency launches money laundering probe

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's petition challenging his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) will be heard by the Delhi High Court. Kejriwal's petition has sought his immediate release from his arrest and the subsequent remand, calling it "illegal".

Delhi High Court hears Arvind Kejriwal’s plea against his arrest

Sunita Kejriwal, the wife of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, announced that he would "expose" the “excise policy scam” case in court on Thursday (Mar&nbsp;28) along with evidence.

In her second media appearance since her husband's arrest, Sunita said she visited him in jail, and although he is diabetic, he is still determined to help people. He issued an order from jail to the water minister to address water and sewer issues in Delhi. She said that the BJP-led central government wants to 'destroy' Delhi and make people suffer.&nbsp;

She said Kerjriwal told her that in the last two years, ED has conducted over 250 raids, including on their residence, but no substantial evidence has been found. Only Rs 75,000 were recovered from her house, raising questions about the alleged scam. He also told her that he "will expose ED’s so-called investigation in the false excise policy case and reveal where all the money went."

<h2>When was AAP chief Kejriwal arrested?</h2>

Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on March 21 in connection with the 2021-22 excise policy scam. He was described as the "kingpin" in the case and remains in ED custody until March 28.

While AAP asserts Kejriwal's innocence and his right to continue as CM, BJP leaders criticise the family's public statements, accusing them of misusing CM's authority and trying to play&nbsp;the victim card. The BJP has taken legal action against Kejriwal for issuing orders from jail.&nbsp;

More on Arvind Kejriwal:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-india-slams-us-over-remarks-on-arvind-kejriwals-arrest-704744">India summons US diplomat over Washington's statement on Arvind Kejriwal's arrest</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-high-court-to-hear-arvind-kejriwals-plea-against-his-arrest-704692">Delhi High Court to hear Arvind Kejriwal’s plea against his arrest</a>

“Under what capacity is Smt Sunita Kejriwal, wife of CM @ArvindKejriwal using the same official setting to relay "messages" from a corruption accused CM? This conduct by CM and his wife is utterly unconstitutional. It also goes on to show the level of distrust Kejriwal harbours for his own ministers. None of them are considered suitable to occupy the Rs 45 crore Sheesh Mahal he built from public funds or even read out his message,” Delhi BJP MLA Vijendar Gupta wrote on X.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sunita Kejriwal, the wife of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, announced that he would "expose" the “excise policy scam” case in court on Thursday (Mar 28) along with evidence.

Sunita Kejriwal, the wife of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, announced that he would "expose" the “excise policy scam” case in court on Thursday (Mar 28) along with evidence. In her second media appearance since her husband's arrest, Sunita said she visited him in jail, and although he is diabetic, he is still determined to help people. He issued an order from jail to the water minister to address water and sewer issues in Delhi. She said that the BJP-led central government wants to 'destroy' Delhi and make people suffer. She said Kerjriwal told her that in the last two years, ED has conducted over 250 raids, including on their residence, but no substantial evidence has been found. Only Rs 75,000 were recovered from her house, raising questions about the alleged scam. He also told her that he "will expose ED’s so-called investigation in the false excise policy case and reveal where all the money went." When was AAP chief Kejriwal arrested? Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on March 21 in connection with the 2021-22 excise policy scam. He was described as the "kingpin" in the case and remains in ED custody until March 28. While AAP asserts Kejriwal's innocence and his right to continue as CM, BJP leaders criticise the family's public statements, accusing them of misusing CM's authority and trying to play the victim card. The BJP has taken legal action against Kejriwal for issuing orders from jail. More on Arvind Kejriwal: India summons US diplomat over Washington's statement on Arvind Kejriwal's arrest Delhi High Court to hear Arvind Kejriwal’s plea against his arrest “Under what capacity is Smt Sunita Kejriwal, wife of CM @ArvindKejriwal using the same official setting to relay "messages" from a corruption accused CM? This conduct by CM and his wife is utterly unconstitutional. It also goes on to show the level of distrust Kejriwal harbours for his own ministers. None of them are considered suitable to occupy the Rs 45 crore Sheesh Mahal he built from public funds or even read out his message,” Delhi BJP MLA Vijendar Gupta wrote on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Arvind Kejriwal will ‘expose’ ED’s ‘liquor scam’ case in court on Thursday, says wife Sunita Kejriwal

The Delhi High Court will on Wednesday (March 27) hear a petition by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal challenging his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a money-laundering case linked to the alleged excise policy scam.

Delhi High Court to hear Arvind Kejriwal's plea on March 27

The police took over the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by Enforcement Directorate. In response, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is said to stage a 4-day nationwide protest which starts today.

Arvind Kejriwal Arrest: Aam Aadmi Party to stage four-day protest over Delhi CM's arrest

Arvind Kejriwal was once the torchbearer of integrity and now he is languishing behind bars. His political journey began as an anti-corruption crusader, but today his journey comes full circle with the Enforcement Directorate arresting him for his alleged role in the liquor scam. Watch in for more details!

Charting the journey of Arvind Kejriwal

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was sent to ED's custody for six days till March 28, a day after he was arrested in connection with the liquor policy scam. ED said Kejriwal was the kingpin of the liquor scam and the money trail has been traced to the Goa election campaign in 2022.

Arvind Kejriwal Arrest: ED gets 6-day custody of Delhi Chief Minister

The Enforcement Directorate has demanded 10-day custody of Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal from a Special Court. The enforcement directorate arrested Kejriwal last night in connection with the alleged excise policy scam case.

Kejriwal Arrest: AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal accused of taking millions in bribe

Explained: What is Delhi liquor policy case?

Kejriwal Arrest: ED produces Arvind Kejriwal in trial court, seeks 10-day custody

Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the liquor policy case after high drama at his residence. He will be produced before a special PMLA court on Friday and the ED will seek his custody for interrogation.

India: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal arrested in Delhi excise policy case

India: ED arrests Delhi CM and Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal

India's corruption watchdog has demanded for a 10 day custody of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal after he was presented in Rouse Avenue court, Delhi. The Delhi CM was arrested last night from his residence in connection with the Excise Policy Scam...Watch in for more details!

Kejriwal Arrest: AAP Chief accused of taking millions in bribe | Delhi Liquor Policy Scam

Enforcement Directorate (ED) team on Thursday (Mar 21) evening arrested&nbsp;Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal&nbsp;from his residence.&nbsp;Around 11:00 pm (IST), the officials took the Delhi chief minister to ED Headquarters after hours of questioning in the alleged excise policy scam, where he spent the night.&nbsp;

Kejriwal's medical test was conducted at the ED office, media reports said.&nbsp;

The ED is pursuing Kejriwal in two cases, 1) Delhi liquor excise policy case, and 2) Another case related to alleged kickbacks in a Delhi Jal Board contract to a private firm.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-poll-body-directs-central-government-to-halt-viksit-bharat-messages-on-whatsapp-702709">Indian poll body directs central government to halt 'Viksit Bharat' messages on WhatsApp</a>&nbsp;

While speaking outside the chief minister's residence, AAP leader Atishi said, "We have received news that ED has arrested Arvind Kejriwal."&nbsp;

"We have always said that Arvind Kejriwal will run the govt from jail. He will remain the CM of Delhi. We have filed a case in the Supreme Court. Our lawyers are reaching SC. We will demand SC have an urgent hearing tonight," she added.&nbsp;

Reports emerged that Kejriwal's legal team moved the Supreme Court but as quoted by the news agency PTI, his lawyer and senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi said that the Delhi CM will not seek an urgent hearing on his plea for protection in SC tonight. &nbsp;

It is expected that India's top court will hear a plea on Friday (Mar 22).&nbsp;&nbsp;

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He was arrested by ED in the Excice Policy Case. <a href="https://t.co/WPkB1ciIBD">pic.twitter.com/WPkB1ciIBD</a>
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This comes hours after the Delhi High Court denied the AAP&nbsp;chief relief against the agency's summons in an excise policy case.&nbsp;

A Delhi High Court bench of Justices Suresh Kumar Kait and Manoj Jain refused to grant Kejriwal any protection from coercive action in the case.&nbsp;

During the hearing, Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who appeared for Kejriwal, submitted that the summons issued under Section 50 do not even reveal whether the person summoned is a witness, suspect or accused.&nbsp;

He said his client has apprehension that he would be arrested "for political purposes" as it has come&nbsp;just days ahead of the Lok Sabha election in India.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sbi-submits-all-electoral-bond-details-with-unique-numbers-to-election-commission-702653">Electoral bonds: SBI submits complete details with unique numbers to India's Election Commission</a>&nbsp;

Last week, the ED issued a summon to Kejriwal, asking him to appear before it on Thursday. The law enforcement agency issued a total of nine summon dates to Kejriwal, which were on November 2, December 22, January 3, January 18, February 2, February 19, February 26, March 4 and March 21.&nbsp;

The officials said the agency team went to the chief minister's residence to serve him summons in the case. The team also informed the staff at the chief minister's residence that it had a search warrant.&nbsp;

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<h2>What is the case all about?&nbsp;</h2>

The case pertains to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy.&nbsp;

The Delhi government had implemented the policy on November 17, 2021. It was, however, scrapped at the end of September 2022 amid allegations of corruption.&nbsp;

According to the investigating agencies, the profit margins of wholesalers were increased from 5 per cent to 12 per cent under the new policy.&nbsp;

The agencies have alleged that the new policy resulted in cartelisation and those ineligible for liquor licences were favoured for monetary benefits.&nbsp;

AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh are in judicial custody in the case.&nbsp;Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) lawmaker K&nbsp;Kavitha was also arrested recently.&nbsp;

However, the Delhi government has denied any wrongdoing and said the new policy would have led to an increase in Delhi's revenue share.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Enforcement Directorate (ED) team on Thursday (Mar 21) evening arrested Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal from his residence. Around 11:00 pm (IST), the officials took the Delhi chief minister to ED Headquarters after hours of questioning in the alleged excise policy scam, where he spent the night.

Enforcement Directorate (ED) team on Thursday (Mar 21) evening arrested Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal from his residence. Around 11:00 pm (IST), the officials took the Delhi chief minister to ED Headquarters after hours of questioning in the alleged excise policy scam, where he spent the night. Kejriwal's medical test was conducted at the ED office, media reports said. The ED is pursuing Kejriwal in two cases, 1) Delhi liquor excise policy case, and 2) Another case related to alleged kickbacks in a Delhi Jal Board contract to a private firm. Also read: Indian poll body directs central government to halt 'Viksit Bharat' messages on WhatsApp While speaking outside the chief minister's residence, AAP leader Atishi said, "We have received news that ED has arrested Arvind Kejriwal." "We have always said that Arvind Kejriwal will run the govt from jail. He will remain the CM of Delhi. We have filed a case in the Supreme Court. Our lawyers are reaching SC. We will demand SC have an urgent hearing tonight," she added. Reports emerged that Kejriwal's legal team moved the Supreme Court but as quoted by the news agency PTI, his lawyer and senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi said that the Delhi CM will not seek an urgent hearing on his plea for protection in SC tonight. It is expected that India's top court will hear a plea on Friday (Mar 22). #WATCH | Enforcement Directorate team takes Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal to ED Headquarters. He was arrested by ED in the Excice Policy Case. pic.twitter.com/WPkB1ciIBD — ANI (@ANI) March 21, 2024 × This comes hours after the Delhi High Court denied the AAP chief relief against the agency's summons in an excise policy case. A Delhi High Court bench of Justices Suresh Kumar Kait and Manoj Jain refused to grant Kejriwal any protection from coercive action in the case. During the hearing, Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who appeared for Kejriwal, submitted that the summons issued under Section 50 do not even reveal whether the person summoned is a witness, suspect or accused. He said his client has apprehension that he would be arrested "for political purposes" as it has come just days ahead of the Lok Sabha election in India. Also read: Electoral bonds: SBI submits complete details with unique numbers to India's Election Commission Last week, the ED issued a summon to Kejriwal, asking him to appear before it on Thursday. The law enforcement agency issued a total of nine summon dates to Kejriwal, which were on November 2, December 22, January 3, January 18, February 2, February 19, February 26, March 4 and March 21. The officials said the agency team went to the chief minister's residence to serve him summons in the case. The team also informed the staff at the chief minister's residence that it had a search warrant. #WATCH | Enforcement Directorate team reaches Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's residence for questioning: ED pic.twitter.com/kMiyVD6vhf — ANI (@ANI) March 21, 2024 × What is the case all about? The case pertains to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy. The Delhi government had implemented the policy on November 17, 2021. It was, however, scrapped at the end of September 2022 amid allegations of corruption. According to the investigating agencies, the profit margins of wholesalers were increased from 5 per cent to 12 per cent under the new policy. The agencies have alleged that the new policy resulted in cartelisation and those ineligible for liquor licences were favoured for monetary benefits. AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh are in judicial custody in the case. Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) lawmaker K Kavitha was also arrested recently. However, the Delhi government has denied any wrongdoing and said the new policy would have led to an increase in Delhi's revenue share. (With inputs from agencies)

Excise Policy Case: Delhi CM Kejriwal spends night at ED office after arrest

India's central agency the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has made headlines in recent weeks just ahead of the Lok Sabha elections which start on April 19. On Thursday (Mar 21) night, the ED arrested Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in connection with the Delhi excise policy case.

India's central agency the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has made headlines in recent weeks just ahead of the Lok Sabha elections which start on April 19. On Thursday (Mar 21) night, the ED arrested Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in connection with the Delhi excise policy case. Kejriwal's arrest comes nearly a week after Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha was arrested in the same case. Apart from Kejriwal, the ED has also arrested top AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh in the case. The ED also arrested former Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren in a separate case related to an alleged land scam. So what is the ED, what are its functions, and what are the recent high-profile cases it has been involved in? Here's a look... A brief history The ED is a multi-disciplinary organisation mandated with the investigation of economic crimes and violations of foreign exchange laws. According to ED's website, the origins of this unit go back to May 1, 1956, when an ‘Enforcement Unit’ was formed in the Department of Economic Affairs for handling exchange control law violations under the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1947 (FERA ’47). In 1957, the unit was renamed the Enforcement Directorate. Three years later, the administrative control of the ED was transferred from the Department of Economic Affairs to the Department of Revenue. "With the passage of time, FERA’ 47 was repealed and replaced by FERA, 1973. For a short period of 04 years (1973 – 1977), the Directorate remained under the administrative jurisdiction of the Department of Personnel & Administrative Reforms," the website states. "With the onset of the process of economic liberalization, FERA, 1973, which was a regulatory law, was repealed and in its place, a new law viz. the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA) came into operation w.e.f. 1st June 2000," it adds. Due to the increase in the number of cases relating to economic offenders taking shelter in foreign countries, the government passed the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018 (FEOA) and ED is entrusted with its enforcement with effect from April 21, 2018. Functions The ED investigates offences of money laundering and violations of foreign exchange laws. It performs its functions by enforcing the following acts - The Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA), The Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA), The Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018 (FEOA), The Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1973 (FERA), and Sponsoring agency under COFEPOSA. The agency states that its core values are integrity, accountability, commitment, excellence, and impartiality. The ED's other high-profile cases include the National Herald case in which Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, and others have been accused of financial irregularities. In 2022, the ED raided the premises of property owned by then-Punjab chief minister Charanjit Singh Channi's nephew Bhupinder Singh Honey in an alleged illegal sand mining case. Also in 2022, then-Delhi health minister Satyendra Jain was arrested by the ED after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) registered an FIR against him in a disproportionate assets case in 2017. A look at the recent high-profile cases The ED is currently cracking down on the AAP in connection with the Delhi excise policy case. It arrested Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday night, while BRS leader K Kavitha was arrested last week. Top AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh have also been arrested in the case. The ED is seeking a 10-day custody of Kejriwal. In the Indian state of Jharkhand, the ED arrested former chief minister Hemant Soren in connection with a money laundering case related to an alleged land scam. Soren's judicial custody has been extended till April 4. Soren was arrested on January 31. He tendered his resignation as CM to the Jharkhand Governor following his questioning by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the alleged land scam case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.

What is the Enforcement Directorate? What are its recent high profile cases?

Delhi Police issued an advisory on Friday (Mar 22) urging commuters to avoid certain routes due to planned protests by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) following the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

Delhi Police issued an advisory on Friday (Mar 22) urging commuters to avoid certain routes due to planned protests by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) following the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). What are the routes you should avoid? Delhi Police posted on X, "Traffic Advisory: In view of the proposed protest by Political party at DDU Marg Delhi, Traffic will remain heavy at IP Marg, Vikas Marg, Minto Road and Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg. DDU marg will remain closed for traffic movement. Kindly avoid these roads and plan your journey accordingly." Commuters are advised to steer clear of the following routes until further notice: IP Marg Vikas Marg Minto Road Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg Krishna Menon Marg Motilal Nehru Marg Janpath Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Road The ITO Metro station is temporarily closed until 6 pm on Friday on the advice of Delhi Police. DMRC's official account wrote on X, "On advice of Delhi Police, ITO Metro station will remain closed from 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM today i.e, 22nd March 2024." Traffic jams Massive traffic jams were witnessed, particularly at ITO, due to heavy security measures and road closures towards the BJP headquarters on Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Marg. Delhi Police has deployed personnel and placed barricades around the BJP headquarters where AAP leaders and workers planned to stage protests against Kejriwal's arrest today. The police intensified border checks to prevent AAP workers from entering Delhi from neighbouring states. AAP's protest plans AAP leaders called on party workers to gather at the BJP headquarters to commence protests at 10 am Friday, condemning Kejriwal's arrest as a "political conspiracy by the BJP".

Delhi police issues traffic advisory in wake of protests following Arvind Kejriwal's arrest: Routes to avoid

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (Mar 18) skipped the summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), India’s premier financial intelligence agency, in connection with alleged irregularities in Delhi Jal Board (DJB). Earlier, his Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) said the summons were “illegal".&nbsp;The ED had asked Kejriwal to be present at its office on APJ Abdul Kalam Road on March 18 for interrogation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

AAP questioned the legality of the summons citing bail order. “When there is bail from the court, why is ED sending summons again and again? ED summons are illegal," it said in a statement.

Meanwhile, on allegations by ED that BRS leader K Kavitha conspired with Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and other AAP leaders in Delhi Excise policy case, AAP said the union government was 'planting falsehoods every day.'

"On earlier occasions too, ED has released such blatantly false and frivolous statements which show that instead of being a neutral investigative agency, it is working like a political wing of BJP," AAP said in a statement.

<o:p></o:p>

Atishi, a minister in the Delhi government, said the union government was following a ‘backup plan’ to arrest Kejriwal anyhow. "Nobody knows what this Delhi Jal Board (DJB) case is about. This seems to be a backup plan to arrest Kejriwal anyhow and stop him from campaigning in the Lok Sabha polls," said Delhi minister Atishi at a press conference on Sunday (Mar 17).<o:p></o:p>

This comes as Kejriwal faces ED summons and court cases for alleged irregularities in Delhi excise policy. Kejriwal has so far skipped eight ED summons in the case, which the AAP says are ‘illegal and illegitimate’. The ED has now asked Kejriwal to appear in the case on March 21.<o:p></o:p>

<h2>What is the DJB case?<o:p></o:p></h2>

In the DJB case, the investigating agency alleges that funds acquired through corruption in a contract awarded by the Delhi government's department were channelled as election funds to the AAP.<o:p></o:p>

In February, the ED carried out raids at the residences of individuals, including Kejriwal's personal assistant, a Rajya Sabha MP from AAP, a former DJB member, a chartered accountant, and others, as part of this investigation.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-court-grants-bail-to-cm-kejriwal-in-enforcement-directorate-summons-case-700656">Also read:&nbsp;Delhi court grants bail to CM Kejriwal in Enforcement Directorate summons case</a></o:p>

The ED's case is founded on an FIR by another central agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), alleging irregularities in the contract awarded to NKG Infrastructure Ltd. for a sum of Rs 38 crore ($4.6 million), despite the company not meeting the technical eligibility criteria.<o:p></o:p>

The ED has arrested some individuals associated with the contract. However, the AAP has refuted the agency's claims as "false".<o:p></o:p>

<h2>Satyendar Jain's bail rejected<o:p></o:p></h2>

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Monday (Mar 18) dismissed the regular bail of Satyendar Jain, an ex-minister in the Delhi government detained in a money laundering case.

<o:p>Watch:&nbsp;Delhi: AAP kicks off election campaign in Gujarat, Delhi CM appeals for two candidates</o:p>

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The bench of justices Bela M Trivedi and Pankaj Mithal asked Jain, who is out on interim bail, to surrender forthwith.

<o:p></o:p>

The ED had arrested the AAP leader on May 30, 2022, on the charge of laundering money through four companies allegedly linked to him.

<o:p>(With inputs from agencies)</o:p>

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (Mar 18) skipped the summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), India’s premier financial intelligence agency, in connection with alleged irregularities in Delhi Jal Board (DJB).

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (Mar 18) skipped the summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), India’s premier financial intelligence agency, in connection with alleged irregularities in Delhi Jal Board (DJB). Earlier, his Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) said the summons were “illegal". The ED had asked Kejriwal to be present at its office on APJ Abdul Kalam Road on March 18 for interrogation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). AAP questioned the legality of the summons citing bail order. “When there is bail from the court, why is ED sending summons again and again? ED summons are illegal," it said in a statement. Meanwhile, on allegations by ED that BRS leader K Kavitha conspired with Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and other AAP leaders in Delhi Excise policy case, AAP said the union government was 'planting falsehoods every day.' "On earlier occasions too, ED has released such blatantly false and frivolous statements which show that instead of being a neutral investigative agency, it is working like a political wing of BJP," AAP said in a statement. Atishi, a minister in the Delhi government, said the union government was following a ‘backup plan’ to arrest Kejriwal anyhow. "Nobody knows what this Delhi Jal Board (DJB) case is about. This seems to be a backup plan to arrest Kejriwal anyhow and stop him from campaigning in the Lok Sabha polls," said Delhi minister Atishi at a press conference on Sunday (Mar 17). This comes as Kejriwal faces ED summons and court cases for alleged irregularities in Delhi excise policy. Kejriwal has so far skipped eight ED summons in the case, which the AAP says are ‘illegal and illegitimate’. The ED has now asked Kejriwal to appear in the case on March 21. What is the DJB case? In the DJB case, the investigating agency alleges that funds acquired through corruption in a contract awarded by the Delhi government's department were channelled as election funds to the AAP. In February, the ED carried out raids at the residences of individuals, including Kejriwal's personal assistant, a Rajya Sabha MP from AAP, a former DJB member, a chartered accountant, and others, as part of this investigation. Also read: Delhi court grants bail to CM Kejriwal in Enforcement Directorate summons case The ED's case is founded on an FIR by another central agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), alleging irregularities in the contract awarded to NKG Infrastructure Ltd. for a sum of Rs 38 crore ($4.6 million), despite the company not meeting the technical eligibility criteria. The ED has arrested some individuals associated with the contract. However, the AAP has refuted the agency's claims as "false". Satyendar Jain's bail rejected Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Monday (Mar 18) dismissed the regular bail of Satyendar Jain, an ex-minister in the Delhi government detained in a money laundering case. Watch: Delhi: AAP kicks off election campaign in Gujarat, Delhi CM appeals for two candidates × The bench of justices Bela M Trivedi and Pankaj Mithal asked Jain, who is out on interim bail, to surrender forthwith. The ED had arrested the AAP leader on May 30, 2022, on the charge of laundering money through four companies allegedly linked to him. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Delhi CM Kejriwal skips ED summons in alleged Delhi Jal Board corruption case: AAP

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday (Mar 16) appeared in a court in relation to the Enforcement Directorate summon case. The ED had approached the court after the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader failed to appear before the economic intelligence agency for interrogation in the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy case.

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Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court ACMM granted bail to Kejriwal on a&nbsp;bond of INR 15,000 ($180) and a surety of ₹1 lakh ($1,200).

This came after a sessions court on Friday had refused to stay the ED summons against Kejriwal.

The ED had filed complaint against the CM for not complying with its summons. The agency had issued eight summons against the AAP leader but Kejriwal declared them ‘illegal’ and maintained he was not a party to the Excise Policy case.

The ED had first approached the court on February 3, a day after Kejriwal snubbed its fifth summon.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-kejriwal-agrees-to-cooperate-with-ed-after-skipping-eight-summons-in-a-row-696339">Also read:&nbsp;Delhi CM Kejriwal agrees to cooperate with ED after skipping eight summons in a row</a>

So far, Kejriwal has skipped summons issued by the ED on February 26, February 19, February 2, January 18, January 3, November 2 and December 22.

<h2>Delhi excise policy case</h2>

The case is based on alleged irregularities in Delhi excise policy (2021-22) highlighted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), an agency controlled by the union government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In a chargesheet filed in the same case by ED, it was claimed that the AAP received kickbacks worth ₹45 crore generated via the policy for part of its assembly election&nbsp;campaign in Goa in 2022.

Delhi government claimed the excise policy would revitalise the city's flagging liquor business and replace a sales-volume-based regime with a license fee for traders. It promised swankier stores and a better buying experience. The policy also offered discounts and offers on the purchase of liquor for the first time in Delhi.

Delhi’s two top ministers—Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh—are already facing judicial custody in the case.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday (Mar 16) appeared in a court in relation to the Enforcement Directorate summon case. The ED had approached the court after the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader failed to appear before the economic intelligence agency for interrogation in the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy case.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday (Mar 16) appeared in a court in relation to the Enforcement Directorate summon case. The ED had approached the court after the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader failed to appear before the economic intelligence agency for interrogation in the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy case. #WATCH | Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal leaves from Rouse Avenue Court, after being granted bail on a bail bond of Rs 15,000 and a surety of Rs 1 lakh. The CM appeared before the court following summons issued to him by the court on the basis of two ED complaints in connection with… pic.twitter.com/dPBXR95R4u — ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2024 × Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court ACMM granted bail to Kejriwal on a bond of INR 15,000 ($180) and a surety of ₹1 lakh ($1,200). This came after a sessions court on Friday had refused to stay the ED summons against Kejriwal. The ED had filed complaint against the CM for not complying with its summons. The agency had issued eight summons against the AAP leader but Kejriwal declared them ‘illegal’ and maintained he was not a party to the Excise Policy case. The ED had first approached the court on February 3, a day after Kejriwal snubbed its fifth summon. Also read: Delhi CM Kejriwal agrees to cooperate with ED after skipping eight summons in a row So far, Kejriwal has skipped summons issued by the ED on February 26, February 19, February 2, January 18, January 3, November 2 and December 22. Delhi excise policy case The case is based on alleged irregularities in Delhi excise policy (2021-22) highlighted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), an agency controlled by the union government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a chargesheet filed in the same case by ED, it was claimed that the AAP received kickbacks worth ₹45 crore generated via the policy for part of its assembly election campaign in Goa in 2022. Delhi government claimed the excise policy would revitalise the city's flagging liquor business and replace a sales-volume-based regime with a license fee for traders. It promised swankier stores and a better buying experience. The policy also offered discounts and offers on the purchase of liquor for the first time in Delhi. Delhi’s two top ministers—Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh—are already facing judicial custody in the case. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi court grants bail to CM Kejriwal in Enforcement Directorate summons case

Aam Aadmi Party convenor and Delhi chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will embark on a Gujarat visit today to launch the Lok Sabha election campaign of his party.

Delhi: AAP kicks off election campaign in Gujarat, Delhi CM appeals for two candidates

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (Mar 4) finally sent a reply to the summons of the Enforcement Directorate (ED), India’s premier economic intelligence agency, in an alleged excise policy scam. Kejriwal added he was ready to answer all questions via video conferencing after March 12, reported news agency PTI. The response came after he skipped eight summons of the ED one after another, calling them illegal and politically motivated.

PTI quoted Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party sources as saying that the chief minister still thought of ED summons as illegal but he was willing to cooperate.

This comes ahead of his scheduled appearance in a Delhi court on March 16 in a case filed by the ED.

<h2>ED’s case against Kejriwal</h2>

The ED had approached a Delhi court against Kejriwal&nbsp;on February 3, following his snub to its fifth summon a day earlier.

ED said it wanted to record Arvind Kejriwal's statement in the case on issues such as the formulation of excise policy, meetings held before it was finalised, and allegations of bribery.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj0r_XD_9mEAxX1jGMGHY9BAfoQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-pm-modi-to-cover-indias-length-and-breadth-in-10-day-pre-poll-tour-full-schedule-696279" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-pm-modi-to-cover-indias-length-and-breadth-in-10-day-pre-poll-tour-full-schedule-696279&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj0r_XD_9mEAxX1jGMGHY9BAfoQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Lok Sabha elections 2024: PM Modi to cover India's length and breadth in 10-day pre-poll tour. Full schedule</a>

On the other hand, AAP and Kejriwal maintain that the summons should be stopped as the matter was pending in court.

So far, Kejriwal has skipped summons issued by the ED on February 26, February 19, February 2, January 18, January 3, November 2 and December 22.

<h2>Delhi excise policy case</h2>

The case is based on alleged irregularities in Delhi excise policy (2021-22) highlighted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), an agency controlled by the union government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In a chargesheet filed in the same case by ED, it was claimed that the AAP received kickbacks worth ₹45 crore generated via the policy for part of its assembly elections campaign in Goa in 2022.

Watch:&nbsp;India: EAM Jaishankar slams Pakistan, says 'SAARC' in trouble due to Pakistan's terrorism

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Delhi government claimed the excise policy would revitalise the city's flagging liquor business and replace a sales-volume-based regime with a license fee for traders. It promised swankier stores and a better buying experience. The policy also offered discounts and offers on the purchase of liquor for the first time in Delhi.

Delhi’s two top ministers—Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh—are already facing judicial custody in the case.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (Mar 4) finally sent a reply to the summons of the Enforcement Directorate (ED), India’s premier economic intelligence agency, in an alleged excise policy scam.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (Mar 4) finally sent a reply to the summons of the Enforcement Directorate (ED), India’s premier economic intelligence agency, in an alleged excise policy scam. Kejriwal added he was ready to answer all questions via video conferencing after March 12, reported news agency PTI. The response came after he skipped eight summons of the ED one after another, calling them illegal and politically motivated. PTI quoted Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party sources as saying that the chief minister still thought of ED summons as illegal but he was willing to cooperate. This comes ahead of his scheduled appearance in a Delhi court on March 16 in a case filed by the ED. ED’s case against Kejriwal The ED had approached a Delhi court against Kejriwal on February 3, following his snub to its fifth summon a day earlier. ED said it wanted to record Arvind Kejriwal's statement in the case on issues such as the formulation of excise policy, meetings held before it was finalised, and allegations of bribery. Also read: Lok Sabha elections 2024: PM Modi to cover India's length and breadth in 10-day pre-poll tour. Full schedule On the other hand, AAP and Kejriwal maintain that the summons should be stopped as the matter was pending in court. So far, Kejriwal has skipped summons issued by the ED on February 26, February 19, February 2, January 18, January 3, November 2 and December 22. Delhi excise policy case The case is based on alleged irregularities in Delhi excise policy (2021-22) highlighted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), an agency controlled by the union government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a chargesheet filed in the same case by ED, it was claimed that the AAP received kickbacks worth ₹45 crore generated via the policy for part of its assembly elections campaign in Goa in 2022. Watch: India: EAM Jaishankar slams Pakistan, says 'SAARC' in trouble due to Pakistan's terrorism × Delhi government claimed the excise policy would revitalise the city's flagging liquor business and replace a sales-volume-based regime with a license fee for traders. It promised swankier stores and a better buying experience. The policy also offered discounts and offers on the purchase of liquor for the first time in Delhi. Delhi’s two top ministers—Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh—are already facing judicial custody in the case. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi CM Kejriwal agrees to cooperate with ED after skipping eight summons in a row

Arvind Kejriwal, chief minister of Delhi, was ordered on Wednesday (Feb 7) to appear before it on February 17. This comes after a complaint filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo for missing five consecutive summons in a case linked to a now-scrapped liquor excise policy case.

The central probe agency filed a second charge against Kejriwal on February 3 for failing to comply with its summons. It maintained that the Delhi CM is a public servant who cannot disobey government directions.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-pray-that-you-keep-40-seats-with-you-pm-modis-jibe-at-congress-687851">I pray that you keep 40 seats with you: PM Modi’s jibe at Congress</a>&nbsp;

On the same day, Kejriwal had snubbed ED's fifth call, and before that, he had not responded to notices issued on January 31, January 19, December 21, and November 2.&nbsp;

Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Divya Malhotra said, "Cognisance of the complaint has been taken, and a summons is being issued to him to appear on February 17."&nbsp;

The Delhi government had implemented the policy on November 17, 2021. It was, however, scrapped at the end of September 2022 amid allegations of corruption.&nbsp;

According to the investigating agencies, the profit margins of wholesalers were increased from 5 per cent to 12 per cent under the new policy.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cong-orchestrating-north-south-divide-gave-our-land-to-enemies-pm-modi-in-rajya-sabha-687805">Cong orchestrating north-south divide, gave our land to enemies: PM Modi in Rajya Sabha</a>&nbsp;

The agencies have alleged that the new policy resulted in cartelisation and those ineligible for liquor licences were favoured for monetary benefits.&nbsp;

However, the Delhi government has&nbsp;denied any wrongdoing and said the new policy would have led to an increase in Delhi's revenue share.&nbsp;

AAP has often slammed the ongoing probe, claiming that ED's actions are "politically motivated".The party has also complained that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "sole aim... is to arrest Arvind Kejriwal and topple the Delhi government".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Arvind Kejriwal, chief minister of Delhi, was ordered on Wednesday (Feb 7) to appear before it on February 17. This comes after a complaint filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo for missing five consecutive summons in a case linked to a now-scrapped liquor excise policy case.

Arvind Kejriwal, chief minister of Delhi, was ordered on Wednesday (Feb 7) to appear before it on February 17. This comes after a complaint filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo for missing five consecutive summons in a case linked to a now-scrapped liquor excise policy case. The central probe agency filed a second charge against Kejriwal on February 3 for failing to comply with its summons. It maintained that the Delhi CM is a public servant who cannot disobey government directions. Also read: I pray that you keep 40 seats with you: PM Modi’s jibe at Congress On the same day, Kejriwal had snubbed ED's fifth call, and before that, he had not responded to notices issued on January 31, January 19, December 21, and November 2. Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Divya Malhotra said, "Cognisance of the complaint has been taken, and a summons is being issued to him to appear on February 17." The Delhi government had implemented the policy on November 17, 2021. It was, however, scrapped at the end of September 2022 amid allegations of corruption. According to the investigating agencies, the profit margins of wholesalers were increased from 5 per cent to 12 per cent under the new policy. Also read: Cong orchestrating north-south divide, gave our land to enemies: PM Modi in Rajya Sabha The agencies have alleged that the new policy resulted in cartelisation and those ineligible for liquor licences were favoured for monetary benefits. However, the Delhi government has denied any wrongdoing and said the new policy would have led to an increase in Delhi's revenue share. AAP has often slammed the ongoing probe, claiming that ED's actions are "politically motivated".The party has also complained that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "sole aim... is to arrest Arvind Kejriwal and topple the Delhi government". (With inputs from agencies)

India: Delhi Court summons CM Arvind Kejriwal after central probe agency ED's complaint

The Enforcement Directorate on Tuesday (Feb 6) continued its raids on Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders and related affiliates in connection with the alleged money laundering cases. ED reportedly raided the residences&nbsp;of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Personal Secretary Bibhav Kumar,&nbsp;Rajya Sabha MP ND Gupta and former&nbsp;Delhi Jal Board member Shalabh Kumar.&nbsp;

As the raids were underway, AAP senior leader Atishi held a press conference. Atishi said the majority of the statements collected against AAP leaders in the Delhi excise policy case had been done so through intimidation by the ED officials.&nbsp;

Atishi also alleged that the ED officials did not audio or video record the statements, breaking the protocol.&nbsp;

"How shall we know that the statements provided by the ED are accurate and true? In 2020 the Supreme Court had passed an order that all investigating agencies must carry out their interrogation under a CCTV camera," she told reporters.&nbsp;

AAP said it had applied at the ED and CBI special court to produce the witness statements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We have applied at the ED and CBI special court in Rouse Avenue that the ED produce the audio and videos of the interrogations it has conducted in the last 1.5 years. I challenge the ED to bring this evidence forward before the nation," said Atishi, concluding her 'expose' press conference.&nbsp;

While Kejriwal's aides are being raided, the AAP national convener has skipped as many as five summons from the central probe agency to join for questioning.&nbsp;

There were rumours last month that Kejriwal might be arrested as the ED wanted to raid his home. His party has alleged that the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) was using such tactics ahead of the general election to fold the opposition.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-excise-policy-scam-investigation-ed-conducts-raids-wion-newspoint-654229">Watch |&nbsp;Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal excise policy scam investigation; ED conducts raids</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>What is the excise policy scam?</h2>

The AAP government brought in the excise policy to revolutionise the sale of liquor in Delhi by bringing in more private players. The rationale given was that the new policy would help generate optimum revenue while eradicating bootlegging and the sale of spurious liquor.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-politician-manish-sisodia-arrested-by-indias-top-investigation-body-in-liquor-policy-row-566115" target="_blank">Read more: India: Delhi deputy CM Manish Sisodia arrested by CBI in liquor policy graft case</a>

However, corruption in the distribution of permits, bribery and fraud in the funnelling of tender amounts meant that the initiative collapsed within a year.&nbsp;

It has been alleged that AAP leaders formulated the policy at the peak of the pandemic to create illegal channels of funding. Former Delhi deputy CM Manish Sisodia has been languishing behind bars for over a year in connection to the case.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Enforcement Directorate on Tuesday (Feb 6) continued its raids on Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders and related affiliates in connection with the alleged money laundering cases.

The Enforcement Directorate on Tuesday (Feb 6) continued its raids on Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders and related affiliates in connection with the alleged money laundering cases. ED reportedly raided the residences of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Personal Secretary Bibhav Kumar, Rajya Sabha MP ND Gupta and former Delhi Jal Board member Shalabh Kumar. As the raids were underway, AAP senior leader Atishi held a press conference. Atishi said the majority of the statements collected against AAP leaders in the Delhi excise policy case had been done so through intimidation by the ED officials. Atishi also alleged that the ED officials did not audio or video record the statements, breaking the protocol. "How shall we know that the statements provided by the ED are accurate and true? In 2020 the Supreme Court had passed an order that all investigating agencies must carry out their interrogation under a CCTV camera," she told reporters. AAP said it had applied at the ED and CBI special court to produce the witness statements. "We have applied at the ED and CBI special court in Rouse Avenue that the ED produce the audio and videos of the interrogations it has conducted in the last 1.5 years. I challenge the ED to bring this evidence forward before the nation," said Atishi, concluding her 'expose' press conference. While Kejriwal's aides are being raided, the AAP national convener has skipped as many as five summons from the central probe agency to join for questioning. There were rumours last month that Kejriwal might be arrested as the ED wanted to raid his home. His party has alleged that the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) was using such tactics ahead of the general election to fold the opposition. Watch | Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal excise policy scam investigation; ED conducts raids × What is the excise policy scam? The AAP government brought in the excise policy to revolutionise the sale of liquor in Delhi by bringing in more private players. The rationale given was that the new policy would help generate optimum revenue while eradicating bootlegging and the sale of spurious liquor. Read more: India: Delhi deputy CM Manish Sisodia arrested by CBI in liquor policy graft case However, corruption in the distribution of permits, bribery and fraud in the funnelling of tender amounts meant that the initiative collapsed within a year. It has been alleged that AAP leaders formulated the policy at the peak of the pandemic to create illegal channels of funding. Former Delhi deputy CM Manish Sisodia has been languishing behind bars for over a year in connection to the case. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's personal secretary, several AAP leaders raided by probe agency ED

Delhi’s ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has alleged that the national ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) wants it to join them ahead of the general elections, a claim the BJP has strongly rebutted. Speaking on Sunday (Feb 4), Delhi’s Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said he will not “bow down” despite great pressure from the BJP.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | On laying the foundation stone of new school buildings in Kirari, Rohini, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal says, "... They ask us to join BJP saying they'll spare us. I said I would not join the BJP... We are doing nothing wrong." <a href="https://t.co/9Tfggh4P5M">pic.twitter.com/9Tfggh4P5M</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1754066352246255937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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He added that the developmental works in Delhi won’t stop even if he is sent to jail by the federal authorities. He issued this statement while laying the foundation stone for two school buildings in Kirari in New Delhi. "BJP wants us to join their party but we won't bow down," Kejriwal said. "Manish Sisodia was put in jail because he built schools. Satyendar Jain was sent to jail because he built Mohalla clinics," he added.

<h2>ED vs Kejriwal</h2>

India’s premier economic intelligence agency, the Directorate of Enforcement (ED), is seeking to interrogate Arvind Kejriwal in a case related to the AAP government’s now-scrapped excise policy. The ED on Saturday (Feb 3) even filed a case against the CM after he failed to appear before the agency for the straight fifth time.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw25dC1XuclIMvdYXjWc2uqS" data-ved="2ahUKEwir4Jbu35GEAxUN3TgGHWwOC8gQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/enforcement-directorate-files-complaint-against-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-after-he-skips-5th-summons-686770" jsname="YKoRaf">Enforcement Directorate files complaint against Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal after he skips 5th summons</a>

The matter will now be heard by Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Divya Malhotra on February 7. AAP maintains the summons are illegal as Kejriwal has not been named as an accused in the case.

<h2>BJP rubbishes Kejriwal’s claims</h2>

Meanwhile, the BJP, which sits in opposition in Delhi, rubbished Kejriwal’s claims, terming them a stunt to divert the public’s attention.

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VIDEO | "Arvind Kejriwal is afraid of investigations by the probe agencies, that's why he is lying. He wants to distract and trick the people of Delhi and that's why he is dreaming about the things that will never happen," says BJP Delhi chief Virendra Sachdeva (<a href="https://twitter.com/Virend_Sachdeva?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Virend_Sachdeva</a>)… <a href="https://t.co/1SwId3eM8q">pic.twitter.com/1SwId3eM8q</a>
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Reacting to Kejriwal's claims, BJP Delhi chief Virendra Sachdev said, “Arvind Kejriwal is afraid of investigations by the probe agencies, that's why he is lying. He wants to distract and trick the people of Delhi and that's why he is dreaming about the things that will never happen."

<h2>Delhi Police’s notice to Kejriwal</h2>

On Saturday, a drama unfolded at Kejriwal’s residence as Delhi Police Crime Branch arrived there to serve him a notice regarding claims of BJP trying to poach AAP’s MLAs.

Watch:&nbsp;India: Arvind Kejriwal likely to skip probe agency ED summons in liquor policy case

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After nearly a five-hour confrontation between the two sides, Delhi Police handed over the notice to staff stationed outside the Chief Minister's residence.

A similar notice was also served to AAP leader Atishi Marlena on Sunday. Atishi holds the portfolios of education, PWD, culture and tourism in the Delhi government.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi’s ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has alleged that the national ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) wants it to join them ahead of the general elections, a claim the BJP has strongly rebutted.

Delhi’s ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has alleged that the national ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) wants it to join them ahead of the general elections, a claim the BJP has strongly rebutted. Speaking on Sunday (Feb 4), Delhi’s Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said he will not “bow down” despite great pressure from the BJP. #WATCH | On laying the foundation stone of new school buildings in Kirari, Rohini, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal says, "... They ask us to join BJP saying they'll spare us. I said I would not join the BJP... We are doing nothing wrong." pic.twitter.com/9Tfggh4P5M — ANI (@ANI) February 4, 2024 × He added that the developmental works in Delhi won’t stop even if he is sent to jail by the federal authorities. He issued this statement while laying the foundation stone for two school buildings in Kirari in New Delhi. "BJP wants us to join their party but we won't bow down," Kejriwal said. "Manish Sisodia was put in jail because he built schools. Satyendar Jain was sent to jail because he built Mohalla clinics," he added. ED vs Kejriwal India’s premier economic intelligence agency, the Directorate of Enforcement (ED), is seeking to interrogate Arvind Kejriwal in a case related to the AAP government’s now-scrapped excise policy. The ED on Saturday (Feb 3) even filed a case against the CM after he failed to appear before the agency for the straight fifth time. Also read: Enforcement Directorate files complaint against Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal after he skips 5th summons The matter will now be heard by Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Divya Malhotra on February 7. AAP maintains the summons are illegal as Kejriwal has not been named as an accused in the case. BJP rubbishes Kejriwal’s claims Meanwhile, the BJP, which sits in opposition in Delhi, rubbished Kejriwal’s claims, terming them a stunt to divert the public’s attention. VIDEO | "Arvind Kejriwal is afraid of investigations by the probe agencies, that's why he is lying. He wants to distract and trick the people of Delhi and that's why he is dreaming about the things that will never happen," says BJP Delhi chief Virendra Sachdeva (@Virend_Sachdeva)… pic.twitter.com/1SwId3eM8q — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 4, 2024 × Reacting to Kejriwal's claims, BJP Delhi chief Virendra Sachdev said, “Arvind Kejriwal is afraid of investigations by the probe agencies, that's why he is lying. He wants to distract and trick the people of Delhi and that's why he is dreaming about the things that will never happen." Delhi Police’s notice to Kejriwal On Saturday, a drama unfolded at Kejriwal’s residence as Delhi Police Crime Branch arrived there to serve him a notice regarding claims of BJP trying to poach AAP’s MLAs. Watch: India: Arvind Kejriwal likely to skip probe agency ED summons in liquor policy case × After nearly a five-hour confrontation between the two sides, Delhi Police handed over the notice to staff stationed outside the Chief Minister's residence. A similar notice was also served to AAP leader Atishi Marlena on Sunday. Atishi holds the portfolios of education, PWD, culture and tourism in the Delhi government. (With inputs from agencies)

‘They want us to join BJP,’ Delhi CM Kejriwal accuses PM Modi’s party of poaching

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued a fresh and the fifth summons to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for questioning him in the Delhi excise policy linked money laundering case, official sources said on Wednesday. Kejriwal, also the national convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has skipped four earlier summons issued by the federal agency for January 18 and January 3 and November 2 and December 21 in 2023. He had called these notices “illegal”.

It is understood that the fresh summons was for February 2.

It is alleged that the Delhi government’s excise policy for 2021-22 to grant licences to liquor traders allowed cartelisation and favoured certain dealers who had allegedly paid bribes for it, a charge repeatedly refuted by the AAP.

The policy was subsequently scrapped and Delhi Lt Governor V K Saxena recommended a CBI probe, following which the ED registered a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA)

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued a fresh and the fifth summons to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for questioning him in the Delhi excise policy linked money laundering case, official sources said on Wednesday.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued a fresh and the fifth summons to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for questioning him in the Delhi excise policy linked money laundering case, official sources said on Wednesday. Kejriwal, also the national convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has skipped four earlier summons issued by the federal agency for January 18 and January 3 and November 2 and December 21 in 2023. He had called these notices “illegal”. It is understood that the fresh summons was for February 2. It is alleged that the Delhi government’s excise policy for 2021-22 to grant licences to liquor traders allowed cartelisation and favoured certain dealers who had allegedly paid bribes for it, a charge repeatedly refuted by the AAP. The policy was subsequently scrapped and Delhi Lt Governor V K Saxena recommended a CBI probe, following which the ED registered a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA)

India: ED issues 5th summons to Arvind Kejriwal in excise policy money laundering case

An Enforcement Directorate team on Monday visited the Delhi residence of Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren to question him in connection with a money laundering investigation in an alleged land fraud case and camped there for over 13 hours.

Official sources claimed Soren was "missing" and could not be contacted by the federal agency but a family member alleged that a "false" narrative was being set to "delegitimise" the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader's position.

The member, who did not wish to be identified, claimed there were repeated communications to ED and compliance to the summons including willingness to record his statement on January 31, 2024 at 1 pm at his Ranchi residence.

Officials of the federal probe agency accompanied by Delhi Police personnel reached the 5/1 Shanti Niketan building in South Delhi around 9 am, while a large number of media persons stood outside.

Several ED officials were seen leaving the premises at around 10.30 pm but it was not clear if all members of the team had left. A source had earlier said the ED teams will be at the residence till Soren returns and that authorities are also keeping a vigil at the Delhi airport.

Soren had left Ranchi for Delhi on January 27, with his party saying on Monday that he had gone for personal work and will be back.

But the Jharkhand unit of the BJP claimed that the chief minister has been “absconding” for the last 18 hours, fearing action of the ED, and urged Governor CP Radhakrishnan to take cognisance of the matter as the "credibility and reputation of Jharkhand are at stake".

The ED had questioned Soren at his official residence in Ranchi on January 20 in the case and had issued a fresh summons to him asking him to confirm his availability for questioning on either January 29 or January 31, the official sources said, adding Soren had sent a communication to the agency but had not confirmed the date and time for questioning.

In an email to the federal agency on Sunday, the 48-year-old JMM executive president alleged that the ED actions were "motivated by political agenda" to disrupt the state government's functioning and claimed that its insistence to record his statement again on or before January 31 reeked of malice.

"Preserve video recording of seven-hour questioning (of January 20) to make available to the court of law," Soren said in the email while agreeing to record his statement on January 31 at the Ranchi residence.

In Delhi, ED officials moved out briefly from the CM's residence at 8 pm and checked a BMW car parked there before going back inside without replying to queries from the media.

"Our team came to the residence of the chief minister to question him but he is not here. The ED teams also went to the Jharkhand Bhawan and a few other locations but could not find the chief minister," a source said.

Some ED officials were later seen leaving the premises at around 10. 30 pm.

While the chief minister's office was tightlipped on the development, Jharkhand Governor Radhakrishnan said he was keeping a watch on the situation in the state in the wake of the ED summons to the CM.

"I am keeping a watch on the overall situation as the custodian of the Constitution. It is the job of the Governor, I am doing it. We will cross the bridge when it comes," he told reporters when queried about the options before the Raj Bhavan in the wake of the political situation in the state.

In the state capital Ranchi, security was tightened at the CM House, Raj Bhavan and central government offices on Monday as visuals from the south Delhi house of Soren flashed through the day.

A massive rally was taken out by the JMM workers in Ranchi accusing the ED of targeting Soren, who is the executive president of the ruling JMM. Protests were also held in Jamshedpur and other parts of the state.

“The CM went to Delhi for some personal work and he will be back. But, the ED action is uncalled for and unconstitutional. It seems that the move is politically motivated,” alleged JMM general secretary and spokesperson Supriyo Bhattacharya.

BJP leaders, however, questioned the whereabouts of the CM.

“According to media sources, late at night Hemant ji, wearing slippers and covering his face with a sheet, ran away from his Delhi residence on foot. Ajay Singh, the security personnel of special branch who went with him to Delhi, is also missing,” Jharkhand BJP president Babulal Marandi claimed in a post on X.

“The mobile phones of both of them have also been switched off. Since then, the ED and Delhi Police are searching for them. There cannot be any other example of such gross negligence regarding the security of the chief minister,” the former CM said.

"What could be more worrying and shameful that the chief minister of a state, who is holding a constitutional post, breaks the protocol and absconds," Marandi said. 
Jharkhand Congress president Rajesh Thakur alleged that confusion was being created surrounding Soren's location under a “well-designed conspiracy”.

“Attempts are being made to create a perception that the President's rule will be imposed in the state. People are spreading rumours that the CM is missing,” Thakur said.

Meanwhile, asked bout the possibility of imposition of the President's Rule in the state, the governor said it was just "guesswork" at present, adding that political parties should not get involved in it.

On Soren skipping ED summons in connection with a money laundering probe, he said, "I will tell you one thing - nobody is above the law... If the CM is not responding today, he has to respond tomorrow. " A top Jharkhand government official said, "It is an unprecedented situation here. No one knows the whereabouts of the chief minister."

The agency had recorded the statement of the 48-year-old chief minister for the first time in the case on January 20 after investigators went to his official residence in Ranchi.

They recorded his statement under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) during the about seven hours they spent at his home and put about 17-18 questions to the CM.

It is understood that as the questioning did not finish on that day, a fresh summons was issued.

The investigation pertains to a "huge racket of illegal change of ownership of land by the mafia" in Jharkhand, according to the agency.

The ED has, so far, arrested 14 people in the case, including 2011-batch IAS officer Chhavi Ranjan who served as the director of the state's Social Welfare Department and deputy commissioner of Ranchi.&nbsp;

An Enforcement Directorate team on Monday visited the Delhi residence of Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren to question him in connection with a money laundering investigation in an alleged land fraud case and camped there for over 13 hours.

An Enforcement Directorate team on Monday visited the Delhi residence of Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren to question him in connection with a money laundering investigation in an alleged land fraud case and camped there for over 13 hours. Official sources claimed Soren was "missing" and could not be contacted by the federal agency but a family member alleged that a "false" narrative was being set to "delegitimise" the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader's position. The member, who did not wish to be identified, claimed there were repeated communications to ED and compliance to the summons including willingness to record his statement on January 31, 2024 at 1 pm at his Ranchi residence. Officials of the federal probe agency accompanied by Delhi Police personnel reached the 5/1 Shanti Niketan building in South Delhi around 9 am, while a large number of media persons stood outside. Several ED officials were seen leaving the premises at around 10.30 pm but it was not clear if all members of the team had left. A source had earlier said the ED teams will be at the residence till Soren returns and that authorities are also keeping a vigil at the Delhi airport. Soren had left Ranchi for Delhi on January 27, with his party saying on Monday that he had gone for personal work and will be back. But the Jharkhand unit of the BJP claimed that the chief minister has been “absconding” for the last 18 hours, fearing action of the ED, and urged Governor CP Radhakrishnan to take cognisance of the matter as the "credibility and reputation of Jharkhand are at stake". The ED had questioned Soren at his official residence in Ranchi on January 20 in the case and had issued a fresh summons to him asking him to confirm his availability for questioning on either January 29 or January 31, the official sources said, adding Soren had sent a communication to the agency but had not confirmed the date and time for questioning. In an email to the federal agency on Sunday, the 48-year-old JMM executive president alleged that the ED actions were "motivated by political agenda" to disrupt the state government's functioning and claimed that its insistence to record his statement again on or before January 31 reeked of malice. "Preserve video recording of seven-hour questioning (of January 20) to make available to the court of law," Soren said in the email while agreeing to record his statement on January 31 at the Ranchi residence. In Delhi, ED officials moved out briefly from the CM's residence at 8 pm and checked a BMW car parked there before going back inside without replying to queries from the media. "Our team came to the residence of the chief minister to question him but he is not here. The ED teams also went to the Jharkhand Bhawan and a few other locations but could not find the chief minister," a source said. Some ED officials were later seen leaving the premises at around 10. 30 pm. While the chief minister's office was tightlipped on the development, Jharkhand Governor Radhakrishnan said he was keeping a watch on the situation in the state in the wake of the ED summons to the CM. "I am keeping a watch on the overall situation as the custodian of the Constitution. It is the job of the Governor, I am doing it. We will cross the bridge when it comes," he told reporters when queried about the options before the Raj Bhavan in the wake of the political situation in the state. In the state capital Ranchi, security was tightened at the CM House, Raj Bhavan and central government offices on Monday as visuals from the south Delhi house of Soren flashed through the day. A massive rally was taken out by the JMM workers in Ranchi accusing the ED of targeting Soren, who is the executive president of the ruling JMM. Protests were also held in Jamshedpur and other parts of the state. “The CM went to Delhi for some personal work and he will be back. But, the ED action is uncalled for and unconstitutional. It seems that the move is politically motivated,” alleged JMM general secretary and spokesperson Supriyo Bhattacharya. BJP leaders, however, questioned the whereabouts of the CM. “According to media sources, late at night Hemant ji, wearing slippers and covering his face with a sheet, ran away from his Delhi residence on foot. Ajay Singh, the security personnel of special branch who went with him to Delhi, is also missing,” Jharkhand BJP president Babulal Marandi claimed in a post on X. “The mobile phones of both of them have also been switched off. Since then, the ED and Delhi Police are searching for them. There cannot be any other example of such gross negligence regarding the security of the chief minister,” the former CM said. "What could be more worrying and shameful that the chief minister of a state, who is holding a constitutional post, breaks the protocol and absconds," Marandi said. Jharkhand Congress president Rajesh Thakur alleged that confusion was being created surrounding Soren's location under a “well-designed conspiracy”. “Attempts are being made to create a perception that the President's rule will be imposed in the state. People are spreading rumours that the CM is missing,” Thakur said. Meanwhile, asked bout the possibility of imposition of the President's Rule in the state, the governor said it was just "guesswork" at present, adding that political parties should not get involved in it. On Soren skipping ED summons in connection with a money laundering probe, he said, "I will tell you one thing - nobody is above the law... If the CM is not responding today, he has to respond tomorrow. " A top Jharkhand government official said, "It is an unprecedented situation here. No one knows the whereabouts of the chief minister." The agency had recorded the statement of the 48-year-old chief minister for the first time in the case on January 20 after investigators went to his official residence in Ranchi. They recorded his statement under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) during the about seven hours they spent at his home and put about 17-18 questions to the CM. It is understood that as the questioning did not finish on that day, a fresh summons was issued. The investigation pertains to a "huge racket of illegal change of ownership of land by the mafia" in Jharkhand, according to the agency. The ED has, so far, arrested 14 people in the case, including 2011-batch IAS officer Chhavi Ranjan who served as the director of the state's Social Welfare Department and deputy commissioner of Ranchi.

ED team camps at Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s Delhi house, BJP claims he is ‘absconding’ 

Two persons were arrested on Friday in connection with the attack on an Enforcement Directorate (ED) team during a raid at the house of TMC leader Shajahan Seikh in Sandeshkhali last week, police said. Those arrested were identified as Mehaboob Mollah and Sukomal Sardar, they said.

"Based on various video footage, today we have arrested the two persons," Basirhat SP Joby Thomas told PTI.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-west-bengal-governor-condemns-attack-on-ed-officials-calls-incident-ghastly-676974">&nbsp;India: West Bengal governor condemns attack on ED officials, calls incident ‘ghastly’</a>

The duo was produced before a court and was sent to police custody for three days.

Sheikh, who was raided in connection with the alleged ration scam, is still on the run.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-tmc-leader-shankar-adhya-arrested-in-alleged-ration-scam-hours-after-mob-attack-on-ed-officials-677054">India: TMC leader Shankar Adhya arrested in alleged ration scam hours after mob attack on ED officials</a>

Three ED officers were injured and their belongings were snatched in the attack that happened in Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal on January 5.&nbsp;

Two persons were arrested on Friday in connection with the attack on an Enforcement Directorate (ED) team during a raid at the house of TMC leader Shajahan Seikh in Sandeshkhali last week, police said.

Two persons were arrested on Friday in connection with the attack on an Enforcement Directorate (ED) team during a raid at the house of TMC leader Shajahan Seikh in Sandeshkhali last week, police said. Those arrested were identified as Mehaboob Mollah and Sukomal Sardar, they said. "Based on various video footage, today we have arrested the two persons," Basirhat SP Joby Thomas told PTI. ALSO READ | India: West Bengal governor condemns attack on ED officials, calls incident ‘ghastly’ The duo was produced before a court and was sent to police custody for three days. Sheikh, who was raided in connection with the alleged ration scam, is still on the run. ALSO READ | India: TMC leader Shankar Adhya arrested in alleged ration scam hours after mob attack on ED officials Three ED officers were injured and their belongings were snatched in the attack that happened in Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal on January 5.

India: Two men arrested for attack on ED officials during raid on TMC leader’s house in West Bengal

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