The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday arrested two former executives in connection with its money laundering probe in the IL&amp;FS alleged financial irregularities case, officials said.

They said former joint MD of the company Arun K Saha and MD of transportation network K Ramchand were&nbsp;arrested late evening in Mumbai under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

These are the first arrests in this case by the Enforcement Directorate.

The two will he produced before a special PMLA court in Mumbai on Thursday, they said.

The central agency had filed a money laundering case in February this year and had twice raided a number of former executives in order to obtain additional evidence.

The debt crisis at the infrastructure lender came to light following a series of defaults by its group companies beginning September 2018.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

IL&amp;FS has defaulted on payment of loans to SIDBI and along with its subsidiaries has a combined debt of over Rs91,000 crores.

The ED's case is based on an FIR filed before the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Delhi Police in December last year.

Ashish Begwani, Director of Enso Infrastructures (P) Ltd, had filed the case against officials of IL&amp;FS Rail Ltd for allegedly causing Rs 70 crore loss to his company by fraudulent means.

Begwani had alleged in his complaint that in August 2010, he was approached by two officials of IL&amp;FS Transportation Networks Ltd and he had invested Rs 170 crore in IL&amp;FS Rail Ltd, a special purpose vehicle for Gurugram Metro project, in order to take its 15 per cent shares.&nbsp;

The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday arrested two former executives in connection with its money laundering probe in the IL&FS alleged financial irregularities case, officials said.

The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday arrested two former executives in connection with its money laundering probe in the IL&FS alleged financial irregularities case, officials said. They said former joint MD of the company Arun K Saha and MD of transportation network K Ramchand were arrested late evening in Mumbai under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). These are the first arrests in this case by the Enforcement Directorate. The two will he produced before a special PMLA court in Mumbai on Thursday, they said. The central agency had filed a money laundering case in February this year and had twice raided a number of former executives in order to obtain additional evidence. The debt crisis at the infrastructure lender came to light following a series of defaults by its group companies beginning September 2018. IL&FS has defaulted on payment of loans to SIDBI and along with its subsidiaries has a combined debt of over Rs91,000 crores. The ED's case is based on an FIR filed before the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Delhi Police in December last year. Ashish Begwani, Director of Enso Infrastructures (P) Ltd, had filed the case against officials of IL&FS Rail Ltd for allegedly causing Rs 70 crore loss to his company by fraudulent means. Begwani had alleged in his complaint that in August 2010, he was approached by two officials of IL&FS Transportation Networks Ltd and he had invested Rs 170 crore in IL&FS Rail Ltd, a special purpose vehicle for Gurugram Metro project, in order to take its 15 per cent shares.

Enforcement Directorate arrests two former IL&FS executives in PMLA probe

Former civil aviation minister and NCP leader Praful Patel has been summoned for questioning by the ED again next week as he sought exemption from the session Wednesday in connection with a money-laundering probe related to losses suffered by Air India as part of an alleged multi-crore aviation scam, officials said.

The Rajya Sabha MP was grilled by the agency over two separate sessions on Monday and Tuesday and his statement was recorded under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

He has been summoned again next week for June 17, the officials said.

They said Patel, 62, was asked about the policy decisions taken by the civil aviation ministry during his tenure and his links with alleged aviation lobbyist Deepak Talwar, under arrest in this case, during the two rounds of grilling.

The case emerges from a criminal complaint registered by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to probe alleged irregularities in fixing air slots for international airlines that purportedly led to losses for national carrier Air India. A case for the purchase of 111 aircraft for the national carrier during Patel's tenure is also under probe.

The former Lok Sabha MP from the Bhandara-Gondia seat in Maharashtra has also been named in a recent charge sheet filed by the federal agency before a court, as a person known to alleged aviation lobbyist Deepak Talwar.

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader, who was in charge of the civil aviation ministry between 2004 and 2011, has not been mentioned as an accused in the case.

The ED has already questioned a number of people in the senior management of the state-owned airline and the aviation ministry.

The agency had said in the charge sheet "the investigation so far from the accused and others reveal that Patel is a dear friend of Deepak Talwar".&nbsp;

Patel had earlier told the media that "he will be happy to cooperate with the ED for their understanding of the complexities of the aviation sector".

The ED charge sheet in the case named Talwar and claimed that he was in regular touch with Patel. It has alleged that Talwar finalised various communications addressed to Patel on behalf of Emirates and Air Arabia.

According to the charge sheet, Talwar obtained undue favours for private airlines using his contacts.

The agency has also alleged that Talwar was engaged in lobbying with politicians, ministers, public servants and officials in the civil aviation ministry for Emirates, Air Arabia and Qatar Airways in order to secure undue benefits for these airlines.

"He (Talwar) illegally managed to secure favourable traffic rights for these airlines during 2008-2009 at the cost of national carrier Air India," the ED has claimed.

It has also been alleged that in lieu of securing favourable traffic rights, these airlines made payments to the tune of Rs 272 crore to Talwar during 2008-2009.

"He created a web of his own entities and used the companies of his son, Aditya Talwar, in India and international offshore havens to launder Rs 272 crore received from foreign airlines.

"Part of these payments were made to a bank account in the Bank of Singapore, belonging to a company called Asiafield Limited, registered in the British Virgin Islands and beneficially owned by Deepak Talwar," the agency has said in the charge sheet.

Talwar was arrested by the ED early this year after he was deported from Dubai.&nbsp;

Former civil aviation minister and NCP leader Praful Patel has been summoned for questioning by the ED again next week as he sought exemption from the session Wednesday in connection with a money-laundering probe related to losses suffered by Air India as part of an alleged multi-crore aviation scam, officials said.

Former civil aviation minister and NCP leader Praful Patel has been summoned for questioning by the ED again next week as he sought exemption from the session Wednesday in connection with a money-laundering probe related to losses suffered by Air India as part of an alleged multi-crore aviation scam, officials said. The Rajya Sabha MP was grilled by the agency over two separate sessions on Monday and Tuesday and his statement was recorded under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). He has been summoned again next week for June 17, the officials said. They said Patel, 62, was asked about the policy decisions taken by the civil aviation ministry during his tenure and his links with alleged aviation lobbyist Deepak Talwar, under arrest in this case, during the two rounds of grilling. The case emerges from a criminal complaint registered by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to probe alleged irregularities in fixing air slots for international airlines that purportedly led to losses for national carrier Air India. A case for the purchase of 111 aircraft for the national carrier during Patel's tenure is also under probe. The former Lok Sabha MP from the Bhandara-Gondia seat in Maharashtra has also been named in a recent charge sheet filed by the federal agency before a court, as a person known to alleged aviation lobbyist Deepak Talwar. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader, who was in charge of the civil aviation ministry between 2004 and 2011, has not been mentioned as an accused in the case. The ED has already questioned a number of people in the senior management of the state-owned airline and the aviation ministry. The agency had said in the charge sheet "the investigation so far from the accused and others reveal that Patel is a dear friend of Deepak Talwar". Patel had earlier told the media that "he will be happy to cooperate with the ED for their understanding of the complexities of the aviation sector". The ED charge sheet in the case named Talwar and claimed that he was in regular touch with Patel. It has alleged that Talwar finalised various communications addressed to Patel on behalf of Emirates and Air Arabia. According to the charge sheet, Talwar obtained undue favours for private airlines using his contacts. The agency has also alleged that Talwar was engaged in lobbying with politicians, ministers, public servants and officials in the civil aviation ministry for Emirates, Air Arabia and Qatar Airways in order to secure undue benefits for these airlines. "He (Talwar) illegally managed to secure favourable traffic rights for these airlines during 2008-2009 at the cost of national carrier Air India," the ED has claimed. It has also been alleged that in lieu of securing favourable traffic rights, these airlines made payments to the tune of Rs 272 crore to Talwar during 2008-2009. "He created a web of his own entities and used the companies of his son, Aditya Talwar, in India and international offshore havens to launder Rs 272 crore received from foreign airlines. "Part of these payments were made to a bank account in the Bank of Singapore, belonging to a company called Asiafield Limited, registered in the British Virgin Islands and beneficially owned by Deepak Talwar," the agency has said in the charge sheet. Talwar was arrested by the ED early this year after he was deported from Dubai.

Praful Patel to appear before Enforcement Directorate again next week

Former civil aviation minister and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/praful-patel-expected-to-depose-before-ed-in-pmla-case-on-thursday-224690">NCP leader Praful Patel</a> on Monday joined an investigation led by the Enforcement Directorate in a money laundering case.&nbsp;

Patel was reported to have been accompanied by his lawyers. His statement is being recorded, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Patel is under question in relation to a money-laundering probe related to the losses suffered by national carrier Air India as part of an alleged multi-crore-rupee aviation scam.

Sixty-two-year-old Patel has also been named in a recent charge sheet filed by the federal agency before a court as a person known to alleged aviation lobbyist Deepak Talwar.

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The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader was in charge of the civil aviation ministry between 2004 and 2011. He has not been mentioned as an accused in the case, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Patel had earlier expressed willingness to cooperate with the ED for their understanding of the complexities of the aviation industry.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Former civil aviation minister and NCP leader Praful Patel on Monday joined an investigation led by the Enforcement Directorate in a money laundering case. Patel was reported to have been accompanied by his lawyers.

Former civil aviation minister and NCP leader Praful Patel on Monday joined an investigation led by the Enforcement Directorate in a money laundering case. Patel was reported to have been accompanied by his lawyers. His statement is being recorded, news agency ANI reported. Patel is under question in relation to a money-laundering probe related to the losses suffered by national carrier Air India as part of an alleged multi-crore-rupee aviation scam. Sixty-two-year-old Patel has also been named in a recent charge sheet filed by the federal agency before a court as a person known to alleged aviation lobbyist Deepak Talwar. Delhi: Praful Patel has joined ED investigation in a money laundering case. His statement is being recorded. He is accompanied by his lawyers — ANI (@ANI) June 10, 2019 × The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader was in charge of the civil aviation ministry between 2004 and 2011. He has not been mentioned as an accused in the case, news agency PTI reported. Patel had earlier expressed willingness to cooperate with the ED for their understanding of the complexities of the aviation industry. (With inputs from agencies)

Praful Patel deposes before Enforcement Directorate in money laundering probe 

Former civil aviation minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Praful Patel today requested for another date to depose before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a money-laundering probe.

Praful Patel to not appear before ED today

The ED has widened its probe against Robert Vadra and requested its UK counterparts to share details of ownership and related financial transactions of over half-a-dozen assets there that the agency claimed were acquired using laundered money and belonged to him, officials said.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/robert-vadra-appears-before-enforcement-directorate-statement-to-be-recorded-224131">Enforcement Directorate</a>&nbsp;has also sought help from financial intelligence units of some countries to unravel the flow of funds used to buy these assets, they said.

The agency is preparing a blueprint to provisionally attach these immovable assets in London and nearby areas under the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/money-laundering-case-robert-vadra-appears-before-enforcement-directorate-again-222657">Prevention of Money Laundering</a> Act (PMLA), they said.

The 50-year-old businessman, who is the brother-in-law of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, has been grilled multiple times by the ED with regard to a London-based property located at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million GBP (British pounds), which it claims is allegedly owned by him.

Sources said the agency has evidence that some more assets in the United Kingdom are "linked" to Vadra. These include two houses -- one worth 5 million GBP and the other valued at 4 million GBP, and six flats.

The federal anti-money laundering agency, the sources said, has detected some alleged undisclosed transactions being made from Cyprus and Dubai for the purchase of these assets by people linked to Vadra.

Questioning of Vadra on his links to these assets has not got the agency much leads. It now wants to put Vadra through sustained interrogation and has moved the court to cancel his anticipatory bail, they said.

The businessman, in his defence, had said that he was being subjected to "sensation and unnecessary drama" by the repeated exercise of summoning him by the ED.

He posted on the social media recently that his life "is unique and I have fought for almost a decade over baseless accusations."&nbsp;

"Physically situations can change, but one's honest mind cannot. I am determined on the truth and it is a book in the making, for the world to read and know clearly my side...," said Vadra, the husband of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.

The sources said the agency has asked its UK counterparts to help them get full details of the chain of ownership of these assets apart from documents that legally establish their sale and purchase over a period of time.

The exercise, it is understood, is aimed at ensuring attachment of these assets under the PMLA and prepare a watertight case against Vadra and his other associates.

A main suspect for the Enforcement Directorate in these dealings is NRI businessman C C Thampi who has been charged by the agency in an alleged illegal hawala dealings and land purchase case in the country in 2017.

It had issued a show-cause notice to Thampi for alleged violation of foreign exchange laws to the tune of over Rs 1,000 crore in the purchase of vast tracts of land in Kerala.

Thampi has now been summoned by the agency for questioning about his links with Vadra and absconding arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari.

The agency claims Thampi met Vadra through an aide of his mother-in-law and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, while the businessman has reportedly told the ED that he met him on board an Emirates flight some years ago.

Thampi, during his earlier grilling session with the ED, has claimed that Vadra had stayed at the Bryanston Square property in London, which has been denied by the businessman in his statement made to the agency.

Thampi has sought some more time to appear before the ED as he claims he is unwell, the sources said. Some other people linked to Vadra and Bhandari have also been summoned, they said.

The ED has widened its probe against Robert Vadra and requested its UK counterparts to share details of ownership and related financial transactions of over half-a-dozen assets there that the agency claimed were acquired using laundered money and belonged to him, officials said.

The ED has widened its probe against Robert Vadra and requested its UK counterparts to share details of ownership and related financial transactions of over half-a-dozen assets there that the agency claimed were acquired using laundered money and belonged to him, officials said. The Enforcement Directorate has also sought help from financial intelligence units of some countries to unravel the flow of funds used to buy these assets, they said. The agency is preparing a blueprint to provisionally attach these immovable assets in London and nearby areas under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), they said. The 50-year-old businessman, who is the brother-in-law of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, has been grilled multiple times by the ED with regard to a London-based property located at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million GBP (British pounds), which it claims is allegedly owned by him. Sources said the agency has evidence that some more assets in the United Kingdom are "linked" to Vadra. These include two houses -- one worth 5 million GBP and the other valued at 4 million GBP, and six flats. The federal anti-money laundering agency, the sources said, has detected some alleged undisclosed transactions being made from Cyprus and Dubai for the purchase of these assets by people linked to Vadra. Questioning of Vadra on his links to these assets has not got the agency much leads. It now wants to put Vadra through sustained interrogation and has moved the court to cancel his anticipatory bail, they said. The businessman, in his defence, had said that he was being subjected to "sensation and unnecessary drama" by the repeated exercise of summoning him by the ED. He posted on the social media recently that his life "is unique and I have fought for almost a decade over baseless accusations." "Physically situations can change, but one's honest mind cannot. I am determined on the truth and it is a book in the making, for the world to read and know clearly my side...," said Vadra, the husband of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. The sources said the agency has asked its UK counterparts to help them get full details of the chain of ownership of these assets apart from documents that legally establish their sale and purchase over a period of time. The exercise, it is understood, is aimed at ensuring attachment of these assets under the PMLA and prepare a watertight case against Vadra and his other associates. A main suspect for the Enforcement Directorate in these dealings is NRI businessman C C Thampi who has been charged by the agency in an alleged illegal hawala dealings and land purchase case in the country in 2017. It had issued a show-cause notice to Thampi for alleged violation of foreign exchange laws to the tune of over Rs 1,000 crore in the purchase of vast tracts of land in Kerala. Thampi has now been summoned by the agency for questioning about his links with Vadra and absconding arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari. The agency claims Thampi met Vadra through an aide of his mother-in-law and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, while the businessman has reportedly told the ED that he met him on board an Emirates flight some years ago. Thampi, during his earlier grilling session with the ED, has claimed that Vadra had stayed at the Bryanston Square property in London, which has been denied by the businessman in his statement made to the agency. Thampi has sought some more time to appear before the ED as he claims he is unwell, the sources said. Some other people linked to Vadra and Bhandari have also been summoned, they said.

Enforcement Directorate requests foreign agencies for details about UK assets linked to Robert Vadra, summons NRI

Enforcement Directorate said that Robert Vadra could tamper evidence in PMLA case. Vadra has faced serious cases of Money Laundering act. Watch this video to know more.

India Watch: ED Opposed Robert Vadra's Plea

Enforcement Directorate has termed as "misleading" the medical reports submitted by fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi, an accused in 13,000 crore PNB scam case, as an excuse for not appearing before the Bombay High Court.

The law enforcement agency, in its affidavit submitted before a division bench headed by Justice I A Mahanty, said that the submission made by Choksi to the court on his medical conditions appear to be "facades being erected merely to mislead the court in an obvious attempt to delay the lawful proceedings.

"The documentation submitted by the appellant are merely copies. In the absence of the original, both the genesis and veracity of the contents of the documents cannot relied upon by the court," read the ED affidavit.

Seeking dismissal of medical records submitted by Choksi, the ED stated that the intention of Choksi appeared to be suspicious as he "purposefully failed to submit the medical records February 17, 2018, onwards.

"The agency further submitted that Choksi underwent coronary angiography and coronary angioplasty in February 2018 but was allowed to return to work within 3-5 days.

"It is not clear as to what prevents him from undertaking travel after about 8-9 months from the date of undergoing the procedure.

"It further contended that the medical certificates dated October 26, 2018, and January 18, 2019, appears to from general practitioner instead of a cardiac expert.

"The medical certificates appear to have been specifically obtained to hoodwink the due process of law in India," the affidavit further stated.

ED said that no further time should be granted to the appellant to submit any other document at this stage.

"The intention of the appellant is clearly dilatory in the matter," the affidavit read.

The agency also sought dismissal of a plea moved my Choksi against the Special FEOA (Fugitive Economic Offenders Act) special court declaring him a fugitive offender.

In July last year, the ED had filed an application in the Special FEOA (Fugitive Economic Offenders Act) special court to declare Choksi an economic offender.

Soon thereafter, in October, Choksi filed applications seeking for the ED's plea to be dismissed.

The application was, however, dismissed by the special court following which he moved Bombay High Court challenging the order and sought for it to be set aside.

In the affidavit, the ED accused Choksi of "siphoning and laundering the proceeds of crime" generated in the PNB fraud case.

"Summons was issued to him but he has not joined the investigation. He is clearly a fugitive and absconder," ED submitted.

The matter will be taken up for hearing today.

Mehul Choksi and nephew Nirav Modi are key accused in the Punjab National Bank(PNB) fraud case.

They fled the country a year ago. The scam is estimated at two billion US dollars.

Choksi was granted citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda on January 15, 2018.&nbsp;

Enforcement Directorate has termed as "misleading" the medical reports submitted by fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi, an accused in 13,000 crore PNB scam case, as an excuse for not appearing before the Bombay High Court.

Enforcement Directorate has termed as "misleading" the medical reports submitted by fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi, an accused in 13,000 crore PNB scam case, as an excuse for not appearing before the Bombay High Court. The law enforcement agency, in its affidavit submitted before a division bench headed by Justice I A Mahanty, said that the submission made by Choksi to the court on his medical conditions appear to be "facades being erected merely to mislead the court in an obvious attempt to delay the lawful proceedings. "The documentation submitted by the appellant are merely copies. In the absence of the original, both the genesis and veracity of the contents of the documents cannot relied upon by the court," read the ED affidavit. Seeking dismissal of medical records submitted by Choksi, the ED stated that the intention of Choksi appeared to be suspicious as he "purposefully failed to submit the medical records February 17, 2018, onwards. "The agency further submitted that Choksi underwent coronary angiography and coronary angioplasty in February 2018 but was allowed to return to work within 3-5 days. "It is not clear as to what prevents him from undertaking travel after about 8-9 months from the date of undergoing the procedure. "It further contended that the medical certificates dated October 26, 2018, and January 18, 2019, appears to from general practitioner instead of a cardiac expert. "The medical certificates appear to have been specifically obtained to hoodwink the due process of law in India," the affidavit further stated. ED said that no further time should be granted to the appellant to submit any other document at this stage. "The intention of the appellant is clearly dilatory in the matter," the affidavit read. The agency also sought dismissal of a plea moved my Choksi against the Special FEOA (Fugitive Economic Offenders Act) special court declaring him a fugitive offender. In July last year, the ED had filed an application in the Special FEOA (Fugitive Economic Offenders Act) special court to declare Choksi an economic offender. Soon thereafter, in October, Choksi filed applications seeking for the ED's plea to be dismissed. The application was, however, dismissed by the special court following which he moved Bombay High Court challenging the order and sought for it to be set aside. In the affidavit, the ED accused Choksi of "siphoning and laundering the proceeds of crime" generated in the PNB fraud case. "Summons was issued to him but he has not joined the investigation. He is clearly a fugitive and absconder," ED submitted. The matter will be taken up for hearing today. Mehul Choksi and nephew Nirav Modi are key accused in the Punjab National Bank(PNB) fraud case. They fled the country a year ago. The scam is estimated at two billion US dollars. Choksi was granted citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda on January 15, 2018.

Medical reports of Mehul Choksi 'misleading': Enforcement Directorate tells Bombay high court

Robert Vadra, the brother-in-law of Congress President Rahul Gandhi, appeared before the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-court-allows-robert-vadra-to-travel-abroad-for-six-weeks-223806"> Enforcement Directorate</a> on Tuesday in connection with a money laundering case linked to purchase of alleged illegal assets abroad, officials said.

Vadra arrived at the agency's office near India Gate around 10:45 AM. He had skipped the summons on May 31, citing bad health.

Vadra was grilled for about five hours last Thursday when the investigating officer of the case recorded his statement under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.

Vadra, before deposing before the agency Tuesday, issued a statement on social media saying he was undertaking the questioning exercise for the 13th time "post almost 80 hours with the Enforcement Directorate, answering any number of questions, amidst sensation and unnecessary drama around, I stay focused and calm."

But, he added, "blatantly and carelessly airing my health matters is not correct...But my time spent with people with worst problems, ailing, blind and orphaned kids to see them still smile, gives me the strength to go on."

"My life is unique and I have fought for almost a decade over baseless accusations. Physically situations can change, but ones honest mind cannot. I am determined on the truth and it is a book in the making, for the world to read and know clearly my side...," he said.

Vadra's comment on his health came&nbsp;as a&nbsp;Delhi court on Monday allowed him to travel abroad for six weeks for a checkup and obtain a second opinion on his ailment.

Vadra has appeared before the ED multiple times in connection with this case as also in another criminal money laundering case related to alleged irregularities of land allotment in Rajasthan's Bikaner district.

In this case, the businessman has appeared for the 11th time while in the Bikaner case he has deposed twice before the ED at its Jaipur office.

The agency recently sought cancellation of the anticipatory bail given to Vadra and had also opposed his plea for foreign travel.

The ED had maintained in courts that it required Vadra's custody as he was not cooperating with the investigation.

The ED case against Vadra relates to allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million GBP (British pounds), which is allegedly owned by him.

The agency had told a Delhi court that it has received information about various new properties in London which belong to Vadra. These include two houses, one worth 5 million GBP and the other valued at 4 million GBP, six other flats and more properties.

Vadra has denied the allegations of possessing illegal foreign assets and termed them a political witch hunt against him. He said he was being "hounded and harassed" to subserve political ends.&nbsp;

Robert Vadra, the brother-in-law of Congress President Rahul Gandhi, appeared before the Enforcement Directorate on Tuesday in connection with a money laundering case linked to purchase of alleged illegal assets abroad, officials said.

Robert Vadra, the brother-in-law of Congress President Rahul Gandhi, appeared before the Enforcement Directorate on Tuesday in connection with a money laundering case linked to purchase of alleged illegal assets abroad, officials said. Vadra arrived at the agency's office near India Gate around 10:45 AM. He had skipped the summons on May 31, citing bad health. Vadra was grilled for about five hours last Thursday when the investigating officer of the case recorded his statement under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. Vadra, before deposing before the agency Tuesday, issued a statement on social media saying he was undertaking the questioning exercise for the 13th time "post almost 80 hours with the Enforcement Directorate, answering any number of questions, amidst sensation and unnecessary drama around, I stay focused and calm." But, he added, "blatantly and carelessly airing my health matters is not correct...But my time spent with people with worst problems, ailing, blind and orphaned kids to see them still smile, gives me the strength to go on." "My life is unique and I have fought for almost a decade over baseless accusations. Physically situations can change, but ones honest mind cannot. I am determined on the truth and it is a book in the making, for the world to read and know clearly my side...," he said. Vadra's comment on his health came as a Delhi court on Monday allowed him to travel abroad for six weeks for a checkup and obtain a second opinion on his ailment. Vadra has appeared before the ED multiple times in connection with this case as also in another criminal money laundering case related to alleged irregularities of land allotment in Rajasthan's Bikaner district. In this case, the businessman has appeared for the 11th time while in the Bikaner case he has deposed twice before the ED at its Jaipur office. The agency recently sought cancellation of the anticipatory bail given to Vadra and had also opposed his plea for foreign travel. The ED had maintained in courts that it required Vadra's custody as he was not cooperating with the investigation. The ED case against Vadra relates to allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million GBP (British pounds), which is allegedly owned by him. The agency had told a Delhi court that it has received information about various new properties in London which belong to Vadra. These include two houses, one worth 5 million GBP and the other valued at 4 million GBP, six other flats and more properties. Vadra has denied the allegations of possessing illegal foreign assets and termed them a political witch hunt against him. He said he was being "hounded and harassed" to subserve political ends.

Robert Vadra appears before Enforcement Directorate; statement to be recorded

Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned Congress president Rahul Gandhi's brother-in-law <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/enforcement-directorate-opposes-robert-vadras-plea-to-travel-abroad-222487">Robert Vadra</a> to appear before the agency on Tuesday, in connection with a land grabbing case.

He has been summoned for questioning in c<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/money-laundering-case-robert-vadra-appears-before-enforcement-directorate-again-222657">ases related to alleged land grab in Delhi NCR</a>, Bikaner, and properties abroad.

On May 30 too, Vadra had appeared before the ED for questioning in the same case.

On the same day, he had stated that he will comply with all summons by the government agencies until his name is cleared of "false allegations".

"Till date, I have deposed 11 times with questioning of approximately 70 hours. In the future also, I will cooperate as always, till my name is cleared of all false allegations and accusations. I maintain my belief in the Indian judiciary is unshakeable I have and will adhere to all summons/norms of the government agencies," Vadra had said in a Facebook post.

On May 24, the agency had requested the Delhi High Court for custodial interrogation of Vadra for questioning him about the source of funds used for the purchase of a London-based property worth 1.9 million pounds and ascertain the role of certain other people, who allegedly helped him launder the money.&nbsp;

Watch: Robert Vadra in trouble again

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&nbsp;

Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned Congress president Rahul Gandhi's brother-in-law Robert Vadra to appear before the agency on Tuesday, in connection with a land grabbing case.

Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned Congress president Rahul Gandhi's brother-in-law Robert Vadra to appear before the agency on Tuesday, in connection with a land grabbing case. He has been summoned for questioning in cases related to alleged land grab in Delhi NCR, Bikaner, and properties abroad. On May 30 too, Vadra had appeared before the ED for questioning in the same case. On the same day, he had stated that he will comply with all summons by the government agencies until his name is cleared of "false allegations". "Till date, I have deposed 11 times with questioning of approximately 70 hours. In the future also, I will cooperate as always, till my name is cleared of all false allegations and accusations. I maintain my belief in the Indian judiciary is unshakeable I have and will adhere to all summons/norms of the government agencies," Vadra had said in a Facebook post. On May 24, the agency had requested the Delhi High Court for custodial interrogation of Vadra for questioning him about the source of funds used for the purchase of a London-based property worth 1.9 million pounds and ascertain the role of certain other people, who allegedly helped him launder the money. Watch: Robert Vadra in trouble again ×

Enforcement Directorate summons Robert Vadra again in land grabbing case

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/alleging-missteps-on-banks-side-mehul-choksis-lawyer-says-bank-destroyed-gitanjali-gems-215569">Diamantaire Mehul Choksi</a>, accused in the multi-crore Punjab National Bank scam, is a "fugitive and absconder", the Enforcement Directorate told the Bombay High Court on Monday.

The agency, in its affidavit, sought dismissal of two petitions filed by Choksi&nbsp;one against a plea for him to be declared a fugitive economic offender and the second to permit him to cross-examine those persons on whose statements the ED is relying on to declare Choksi a fugitive economic offender.

The ED, in its affidavit submitted on Monday to a division bench headed by Justice IA Mahanty, said Choksi is accused of siphoning and laundering money to the tune of Rs 6,097 crore in the PNB scam, and despite having issued summons directing him to appear before the agency, he has said he does not intend to cooperate with the probe.

"He is a fugitive and absconder. He has deliberately and intentionally evaded from appearing before the investigating agency even after a special court has issued non-bailable warrants against him. This shows that he does not have any regard for the law of the land," the affidavit said.

"It is apparent that the applicant (Choksi) has left India to avoid criminal prosecution for the offence of money laundering under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act and continues to refuse to return to India to face criminal prosecution," it said.

It added that Choksi has already taken citizenship of Antigua which clearly shows that he has no intention of returning to India to cooperate with the probe.

The agency further said that under the Fugitive Economic Offender Act, if the fugitive appears in person before the court then the proceedings can be terminated. However, it said, if the person fails to do so the court can declare him a fugitive economic offender and can confiscate his properties.

"The sole purpose of the Act is to compel the fugitive to return to India and face the proceedings initiated against him," the affidavit said.

The Act was introduced as an effective, expeditious and constitutional way to stop offenders from running away, it added.

The high court will take up the petitions for hearing on Tuesday.

Choksi, in his plea, claimed he was unable to return to India due to persistent health problems.

To this, the ED said it was merely a facade and that Choksi can seek treatment for his health problems in India.

Choksi and his nephew Nirav Modi are wanted by the ED and the CBI for allegedly defrauding the PNB to the tune of Rs 13,400 crore, in collusion with a few of its employees.

The ED had filed an application before a special Prevention of Money Laundering Act court, seeking for Choksi to be declared a "fugitive economic offender" for evading summons to appear before the agency and for his properties be confiscated under the provisions of the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018.

Choksi had then filed an application before the lower court, seeking for the ED's plea to be dismissed.

When the lower court rejected his application, Choksi approached the high court in April this year.&nbsp;

Diamantaire Mehul Choksi, accused in the multi-crore Punjab National Bank scam, is a "fugitive and absconder", the Enforcement Directorate told the Bombay High Court on Monday.

Diamantaire Mehul Choksi, accused in the multi-crore Punjab National Bank scam, is a "fugitive and absconder", the Enforcement Directorate told the Bombay High Court on Monday. The agency, in its affidavit, sought dismissal of two petitions filed by Choksi one against a plea for him to be declared a fugitive economic offender and the second to permit him to cross-examine those persons on whose statements the ED is relying on to declare Choksi a fugitive economic offender. The ED, in its affidavit submitted on Monday to a division bench headed by Justice IA Mahanty, said Choksi is accused of siphoning and laundering money to the tune of Rs 6,097 crore in the PNB scam, and despite having issued summons directing him to appear before the agency, he has said he does not intend to cooperate with the probe. "He is a fugitive and absconder. He has deliberately and intentionally evaded from appearing before the investigating agency even after a special court has issued non-bailable warrants against him. This shows that he does not have any regard for the law of the land," the affidavit said. "It is apparent that the applicant (Choksi) has left India to avoid criminal prosecution for the offence of money laundering under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act and continues to refuse to return to India to face criminal prosecution," it said. It added that Choksi has already taken citizenship of Antigua which clearly shows that he has no intention of returning to India to cooperate with the probe. The agency further said that under the Fugitive Economic Offender Act, if the fugitive appears in person before the court then the proceedings can be terminated. However, it said, if the person fails to do so the court can declare him a fugitive economic offender and can confiscate his properties. "The sole purpose of the Act is to compel the fugitive to return to India and face the proceedings initiated against him," the affidavit said. The Act was introduced as an effective, expeditious and constitutional way to stop offenders from running away, it added. The high court will take up the petitions for hearing on Tuesday. Choksi, in his plea, claimed he was unable to return to India due to persistent health problems. To this, the ED said it was merely a facade and that Choksi can seek treatment for his health problems in India. Choksi and his nephew Nirav Modi are wanted by the ED and the CBI for allegedly defrauding the PNB to the tune of Rs 13,400 crore, in collusion with a few of its employees. The ED had filed an application before a special Prevention of Money Laundering Act court, seeking for Choksi to be declared a "fugitive economic offender" for evading summons to appear before the agency and for his properties be confiscated under the provisions of the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018. Choksi had then filed an application before the lower court, seeking for the ED's plea to be dismissed. When the lower court rejected his application, Choksi approached the high court in April this year.

Mehul Choksi 'fugitive and absconder', Enforcement Directorate tells Bombay High Court

Robert Vadra, the brother-in-law of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Thursday appeared before the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/enforcement-directorate-summons-robert-vadra-in-corruption-case-222400">Enforcement Directorate in connection with a money laundering case</a> linked to purchase of alleged illegal assets abroad, officials said.

Vadra was dropped by his wife and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi outside the agency's office near India Gate at about 10:30 AM.

He was summoned to depose before the investigating officer of the case where his statement will be recorded under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

He has appeared before the agency multiple times in the past in this case.

The agency has recently sought cancellation of the anticipatory bail given to Vadra and has also opposed his foreign travel.

A local court Wednesday had reserved for June 3 its order to allow Vadra to travel abroad.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) also last week moved a court here seeking cancellation of the anticipatory bail given to Vadra in this case and the Delhi High Court had then issued a notice to him seeking his response.

The ED had told the Delhi HC that it required Vadra's custody as he was not cooperating in the investigation and the trial court had not discussed the gravity of the offence in its order that gave relief to the high-profile businessman.

The ED case against Vadra relates to allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property located at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million GBP (British pounds), which is allegedly owned by him.

The agency had told a Delhi court that it has received information about various new properties in London which belong to Vadra. These include two houses, one worth 5 million GBP and the other valued at 4 million GBP, six other flats and more properties.

Vadra has denied the allegations of possessing illegal foreign assets and termed them a political witch hunt against him. He said he was being "hounded and harassed" to subserve political ends.

Robert Vadra, the brother-in-law of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Thursday appeared before the Enforcement Directorate in connection with a money laundering case linked to purchase of alleged illegal assets abroad, officials said.

Robert Vadra, the brother-in-law of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Thursday appeared before the Enforcement Directorate in connection with a money laundering case linked to purchase of alleged illegal assets abroad, officials said. Vadra was dropped by his wife and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi outside the agency's office near India Gate at about 10:30 AM. He was summoned to depose before the investigating officer of the case where his statement will be recorded under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). He has appeared before the agency multiple times in the past in this case. The agency has recently sought cancellation of the anticipatory bail given to Vadra and has also opposed his foreign travel. A local court Wednesday had reserved for June 3 its order to allow Vadra to travel abroad. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) also last week moved a court here seeking cancellation of the anticipatory bail given to Vadra in this case and the Delhi High Court had then issued a notice to him seeking his response. The ED had told the Delhi HC that it required Vadra's custody as he was not cooperating in the investigation and the trial court had not discussed the gravity of the offence in its order that gave relief to the high-profile businessman. The ED case against Vadra relates to allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property located at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million GBP (British pounds), which is allegedly owned by him. The agency had told a Delhi court that it has received information about various new properties in London which belong to Vadra. These include two houses, one worth 5 million GBP and the other valued at 4 million GBP, six other flats and more properties. Vadra has denied the allegations of possessing illegal foreign assets and termed them a political witch hunt against him. He said he was being "hounded and harassed" to subserve political ends.

Money laundering case: Robert Vadra appears before Enforcement Directorate again

Robert Vadra appeared before the Enforcement Directorate office for another round of questioning in a money laundering case. Watch this video to know more.

Robert Vadra in trouble again

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Wednesday reserved its order on businessman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-hc-seeks-robert-vadras-response-on-eds-plea-to-cancel-anticipatory-bail-in-pmla-case-221906">Robert Vadra's application seeking permission</a> to travel abroad on June 3 on medical grounds.

Vadra, who is being probed for his alleged involvement in a money laundering case, had sought permission to go abroad citing medical reasons. He had, on May 21, moved a special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court seeking permission to travel abroad.

During the hearing, Enforcement Directorate (ED) opposed Vadra's application to travel abroad stating that it's a routine medical treatment.

Vadra's counsel KTS Tulsi submitted that a small tumour in his client's large intestine has been detected, for which a doctor has to be consulted.

"Robert Vadra has a tumour in his large intestine. He seeks court's permission for the release of his passport so that he can travel to London for medical treatment and can also get the second opinion from doctors there," Tulsi stated. "Doctors have advised getting second opinion and this is a medical condition that can worsen with passing time."

"He was summoned last on March 8, and he has been cooperative. This proceeding should not turn to a death sentence," he added.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing on ED's behalf, argued that Vadra has not essentially been asked to take a second opinion from a doctor in London.

"Doctor has mentioned (about second opinion) 'if you wish so'," he said. "ED investigation is at a crucial stage. Medical condition is just a pretext," he argued.

On a mention of Vadra travelling abroad for his daughter's physiotherapy, the ED argued that the ward can be accompanied by someone else.

"It is apprehended that on the pretext of a medical condition, there may be tampering with evidence," Mehta claimed. "There are treatments available in India," he added.

The ED's counsel also argued that there is a probability Vadra may not return to India if permitted to travel, to which Tulsi said, "Let's not bring political vendetta into it. He won't go to a city where ED has an objection.&nbsp; 
He may consider not going to London."

Meanwhile, Vadra is expected to appear before the ED&nbsp;in Delhi on Thursday in a case related to land grab in Delhi-NCR, Bikaner in Rajasthan and purchase of properties in foreign countries.

The ED had last week summoned Vadra, the son-in-law of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, to appear before it for questioning on Thursday.

On May 24, the agency had requested the Delhi High Court for custodial interrogation of Vadra for questioning him about the source of funds used for the purchase of a London-based property worth 1.9 million pounds and ascertain the role of certain other people who allegedly helped him launder money.

Earlier, the high court had issued a notice to Vadra and his close aide Manoj Arora on a plea filed by the ED seeking cancellation of the trial court order granting them anticipatory bail in the money laundering case. The court has sought replies of Vadra and Arora on the plea and posted the matter for hearing on July 17.

The ED had claimed that Arora was aware of Vadra's overseas undeclared assets and was instrumental in arranging funds for buying the flat.

Vadra is enjoying protection from arrest on the condition that he cannot leave India without the permission of a special CBI court.

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Wednesday reserved its order on businessman Robert Vadra's application seeking permission to travel abroad on June 3 on medical grounds.

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Wednesday reserved its order on businessman Robert Vadra's application seeking permission to travel abroad on June 3 on medical grounds. Vadra, who is being probed for his alleged involvement in a money laundering case, had sought permission to go abroad citing medical reasons. He had, on May 21, moved a special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court seeking permission to travel abroad. During the hearing, Enforcement Directorate (ED) opposed Vadra's application to travel abroad stating that it's a routine medical treatment. Vadra's counsel KTS Tulsi submitted that a small tumour in his client's large intestine has been detected, for which a doctor has to be consulted. "Robert Vadra has a tumour in his large intestine. He seeks court's permission for the release of his passport so that he can travel to London for medical treatment and can also get the second opinion from doctors there," Tulsi stated. "Doctors have advised getting second opinion and this is a medical condition that can worsen with passing time." "He was summoned last on March 8, and he has been cooperative. This proceeding should not turn to a death sentence," he added. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing on ED's behalf, argued that Vadra has not essentially been asked to take a second opinion from a doctor in London. "Doctor has mentioned (about second opinion) 'if you wish so'," he said. "ED investigation is at a crucial stage. Medical condition is just a pretext," he argued. On a mention of Vadra travelling abroad for his daughter's physiotherapy, the ED argued that the ward can be accompanied by someone else. "It is apprehended that on the pretext of a medical condition, there may be tampering with evidence," Mehta claimed. "There are treatments available in India," he added. The ED's counsel also argued that there is a probability Vadra may not return to India if permitted to travel, to which Tulsi said, "Let's not bring political vendetta into it. He won't go to a city where ED has an objection. He may consider not going to London." Meanwhile, Vadra is expected to appear before the ED in Delhi on Thursday in a case related to land grab in Delhi-NCR, Bikaner in Rajasthan and purchase of properties in foreign countries. The ED had last week summoned Vadra, the son-in-law of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, to appear before it for questioning on Thursday. On May 24, the agency had requested the Delhi High Court for custodial interrogation of Vadra for questioning him about the source of funds used for the purchase of a London-based property worth 1.9 million pounds and ascertain the role of certain other people who allegedly helped him launder money. Earlier, the high court had issued a notice to Vadra and his close aide Manoj Arora on a plea filed by the ED seeking cancellation of the trial court order granting them anticipatory bail in the money laundering case. The court has sought replies of Vadra and Arora on the plea and posted the matter for hearing on July 17. The ED had claimed that Arora was aware of Vadra's overseas undeclared assets and was instrumental in arranging funds for buying the flat. Vadra is enjoying protection from arrest on the condition that he cannot leave India without the permission of a special CBI court.

Robert Vadra seeks permission to travel abroad for tumour treatment, Delhi court reserves order

The Enforcement Directorate has summoned <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-hc-seeks-robert-vadras-response-on-eds-plea-to-cancel-anticipatory-bail-in-pmla-case-221906">Robert Vadra</a> on Thursday for questioning in connection with land deal cases of Delhi NCR, Bikaner and other properties, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court on Monday sought Vadra's response on and the ED plea seeking cancellation of his anticipatory bail in a money-laundering case.

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Enforcement Directorate has summoned Robert Vadra tomorrow for questioning in connection with land deal cases of Delhi NCR,Bikaner and other properties. (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/nOyzQppsq2">pic.twitter.com/nOyzQppsq2</a>
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Justice Chander Shekhar issued a notice to Vadra on ED's petition challenging trial court's April 1 order, which granted him anticipatory bail, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

The court also sought the response of Vadra's close aide Manoj Arora on the agency's plea seeking cancellation of the anticipatory bail.

Vadra is facing allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million pounds (over Rs 17 crore).

The case is being probed under the provisions of Prevention of Money Laundering Act.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Enforcement Directorate has summoned Robert Vadra on Thursday for questioning in connection with land deal cases of Delhi NCR, Bikaner and other properties, news agency ANI reported.

The Enforcement Directorate has summoned Robert Vadra on Thursday for questioning in connection with land deal cases of Delhi NCR, Bikaner and other properties, news agency ANI reported. Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court on Monday sought Vadra's response on and the ED plea seeking cancellation of his anticipatory bail in a money-laundering case. Enforcement Directorate has summoned Robert Vadra tomorrow for questioning in connection with land deal cases of Delhi NCR,Bikaner and other properties. (file pic) pic.twitter.com/nOyzQppsq2 — ANI (@ANI) May 29, 2019 × Justice Chander Shekhar issued a notice to Vadra on ED's petition challenging trial court's April 1 order, which granted him anticipatory bail, news agency PTI reported. The court also sought the response of Vadra's close aide Manoj Arora on the agency's plea seeking cancellation of the anticipatory bail. Vadra is facing allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million pounds (over Rs 17 crore). The case is being probed under the provisions of Prevention of Money Laundering Act. (With inputs from agencies)

Enforcement Directorate summons Robert Vadra in corruption case

The Delhi High Court on Monday sought Robert Vadra's response on and Enforcement Directorate plea seeking cancellation of his anticipatory bail in a money-laundering case.

Justice Chander Shekhar issued a notice to Vadra on ED's petition challenging trial court's April 1 order, which granted him anticipatory bail.

The court also sought the response of Vadra's close aide Manoj Arora on the agency's plea seeking cancellation of the anticipatory bail.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing ED in the court, said they required his custody as Vadra was not cooperating in the investigation and the trial court had not discussed the gravity of the offence in its order.

Vadra, a brother-in-law of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, is facing allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million pounds (over Rs 17 crore).

The case is being probed under the provisions of Prevention of Money Laundering Act.&nbsp;

The Delhi High Court on Monday sought Robert Vadra's response on and Enforcement Directorate plea seeking cancellation of his anticipatory bail in a money-laundering case.

The Delhi High Court on Monday sought Robert Vadra's response on and Enforcement Directorate plea seeking cancellation of his anticipatory bail in a money-laundering case. Justice Chander Shekhar issued a notice to Vadra on ED's petition challenging trial court's April 1 order, which granted him anticipatory bail. The court also sought the response of Vadra's close aide Manoj Arora on the agency's plea seeking cancellation of the anticipatory bail. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing ED in the court, said they required his custody as Vadra was not cooperating in the investigation and the trial court had not discussed the gravity of the offence in its order. Vadra, a brother-in-law of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, is facing allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million pounds (over Rs 17 crore). The case is being probed under the provisions of Prevention of Money Laundering Act.

Delhi HC seeks Robert Vadra's response on ED's plea to cancel anticipatory bail in PMLA case

A single bench of Justice Chandershekar will hear Enforcement Directorate's (ED) petition seeking to set aside trial court's order granting anticipatory bail to businessman Robert Vadra in connection with a money laundering case against him.

Meanwhile, the ED has also challenged the anticipatory bail granted to Manoj Arora, a close aide of Vadra, granted by the trial court, which is also scheduled for hearing on May 27 by the same judge, Justice Chandershekar.

The agency on Friday through its plea is pushing for custodial interrogation of Vadra, the son-in-law of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi.

The ED has claimed that Vadra is evasive during the investigation.

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Tripura: 22 NDRF teams have been deployed in Dharmanagar following heavy rainfall that led to flash flood in the area. State Admn says,"We're expecting to bring situation under control in next 24 hrs if it doesn't rain anymore.There are more than 350 ppl in 8 relief camps."(25.5) <a href="https://t.co/jfHNlIZYo0">pic.twitter.com/jfHNlIZYo0</a>
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"...In all likelihood, the respondent (Vadra) is likely to tamper with the evidence and the witness in the case. Special Judge has failed to appreciate that the respondent is a highly influential person. If he is granted blanket protection of bail, there is all likelihood that the respondent shall tamper with the evidence....and the petitioner is still investigating into the said aspects," the plea filed by the ED read.

The agency further claimed that anticipatory bail to both interferes in the investigation of the crime.

"It is right to say that anticipatory bail, to some extent intrudes in the sphere of investigation of crime and that the courts must be cautious and circumspect while exercising such powers of discriminatory nature..," the plea said.

In April, a special CBI court granted anticipatory bail to Vadra and his aide Manoj Arora. Special Judge Arvind Kumar while granting anticipatory bail to the duo directed them to furnish a personal bail bond of Rs&nbsp;5 lakh each and surety of like amount.

Furthermore, the court had imposed bail conditions on both of them, whereby the duo cannot leave the country without permission.

They will have to join the investigation when called upon by the authorities, the court stated.

The court had also ordered that the accused persons shall not tamper with evidence or influence the witnesses in the case.&nbsp;

A single bench of Justice Chandershekar will hear Enforcement Directorate's (ED) petition seeking to set aside trial court's order granting anticipatory bail to businessman Robert Vadra in connection with a money laundering case against him.

A single bench of Justice Chandershekar will hear Enforcement Directorate's (ED) petition seeking to set aside trial court's order granting anticipatory bail to businessman Robert Vadra in connection with a money laundering case against him. Meanwhile, the ED has also challenged the anticipatory bail granted to Manoj Arora, a close aide of Vadra, granted by the trial court, which is also scheduled for hearing on May 27 by the same judge, Justice Chandershekar. The agency on Friday through its plea is pushing for custodial interrogation of Vadra, the son-in-law of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi. The ED has claimed that Vadra is evasive during the investigation. Tripura: 22 NDRF teams have been deployed in Dharmanagar following heavy rainfall that led to flash flood in the area. State Admn says,"We're expecting to bring situation under control in next 24 hrs if it doesn't rain anymore.There are more than 350 ppl in 8 relief camps."(25.5) pic.twitter.com/jfHNlIZYo0 — ANI (@ANI) May 26, 2019 × "...In all likelihood, the respondent (Vadra) is likely to tamper with the evidence and the witness in the case. Special Judge has failed to appreciate that the respondent is a highly influential person. If he is granted blanket protection of bail, there is all likelihood that the respondent shall tamper with the evidence....and the petitioner is still investigating into the said aspects," the plea filed by the ED read. The agency further claimed that anticipatory bail to both interferes in the investigation of the crime. "It is right to say that anticipatory bail, to some extent intrudes in the sphere of investigation of crime and that the courts must be cautious and circumspect while exercising such powers of discriminatory nature..," the plea said. In April, a special CBI court granted anticipatory bail to Vadra and his aide Manoj Arora. Special Judge Arvind Kumar while granting anticipatory bail to the duo directed them to furnish a personal bail bond of Rs 5 lakh each and surety of like amount. Furthermore, the court had imposed bail conditions on both of them, whereby the duo cannot leave the country without permission. They will have to join the investigation when called upon by the authorities, the court stated. The court had also ordered that the accused persons shall not tamper with evidence or influence the witnesses in the case.

Single bench of Justice Chandershekar to hear ED petition opposing anticipatory bail to Robert Vadra

The Enforcement Directorate on Friday knocked the doors of the Delhi High Court seeking to set aside a trial court order granting anticipatory bail to businessman Robert Vadra in a money laundering case against him.

The petition filed by Public Prosecutor (SPP) DP Singh is likely to be taken up on May 27.

The agency, through its plea, is pushing for the custodial interrogation of Vadra, the son-in-law of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi.

The ED has claimed that Vadra has been evasive during the investigation."...In all likelihood, the respondent (Vadra) is likely to tamper with the evidence and the witness in the case. Special Judge has failed to appreciate that the respondent is a highly influential person. If he is granted a blanket protection of bail, there is all likelihood that the respondent shall tamper with the evidence....and the petitioner is still investigating into the said aspects," the plea filed by the ED read.

The agency further claimed that anticipatory bail interferes in the investigation of the crime.

"It is right to say that anticipatory bail, to some extent intrudes in the sphere of investigation of crime and that the courts must be cautious and circumspect while exercising such powers of discriminatory nature..," the plea said.

In April, A special CBI court granted anticipatory bail to Vadra and his aide Manoj Arora. Special Judge Arvind Kumar while granting anticipatory bail to the duo directed them to furnish a personal bail bond of Rs 5 lakh each and surety of like amount.

Furthermore, the court had imposed bail conditions on both of them, whereby the duo cannot leave the country without permission.

They will have to join the investigation when called upon by the authorities, the court had stated.

The court had also ordered that the accused persons shall not tamper with evidence or influence witnesses.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Enforcement Directorate on Friday knocked the doors of the Delhi High Court seeking to set aside a trial court order granting anticipatory bail to businessman Robert Vadra in a money laundering case against him.

The Enforcement Directorate on Friday knocked the doors of the Delhi High Court seeking to set aside a trial court order granting anticipatory bail to businessman Robert Vadra in a money laundering case against him. The petition filed by Public Prosecutor (SPP) DP Singh is likely to be taken up on May 27. The agency, through its plea, is pushing for the custodial interrogation of Vadra, the son-in-law of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi. The ED has claimed that Vadra has been evasive during the investigation."...In all likelihood, the respondent (Vadra) is likely to tamper with the evidence and the witness in the case. Special Judge has failed to appreciate that the respondent is a highly influential person. If he is granted a blanket protection of bail, there is all likelihood that the respondent shall tamper with the evidence....and the petitioner is still investigating into the said aspects," the plea filed by the ED read. The agency further claimed that anticipatory bail interferes in the investigation of the crime. "It is right to say that anticipatory bail, to some extent intrudes in the sphere of investigation of crime and that the courts must be cautious and circumspect while exercising such powers of discriminatory nature..," the plea said. In April, A special CBI court granted anticipatory bail to Vadra and his aide Manoj Arora. Special Judge Arvind Kumar while granting anticipatory bail to the duo directed them to furnish a personal bail bond of Rs 5 lakh each and surety of like amount. Furthermore, the court had imposed bail conditions on both of them, whereby the duo cannot leave the country without permission. They will have to join the investigation when called upon by the authorities, the court had stated. The court had also ordered that the accused persons shall not tamper with evidence or influence witnesses.

Enforcement Directorate approaches Delhi High Court opposing anticipatory bail to Robert Vadra

The Enforcement Directorate Wednesday filed a supplementary charge sheet before a Delhi court against Sushen Mohan Gupta, an alleged defence agent arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP choppers scam, in a money laundering case.

The agency filed the supplementary charge sheet against Gupta before Special Judge Arvind Kumar. He was arrested by the ED under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.

ED had said Gupta's role in the case came to light on the basis of disclosures made by Rajiv Saxena, who has turned approver in the case after he was deported from the UAE and arrested by the agency here.

It is suspected that Gupta has in his possession payment details of the Rs 3,600-crore deal to purchase AgustaWestland VVIP choppers.

The Enforcement Directorate Wednesday filed a supplementary charge sheet before a Delhi court against Sushen Mohan Gupta, an alleged defence agent arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP choppers scam, in a money laundering case.

The Enforcement Directorate Wednesday filed a supplementary charge sheet before a Delhi court against Sushen Mohan Gupta, an alleged defence agent arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP choppers scam, in a money laundering case. The agency filed the supplementary charge sheet against Gupta before Special Judge Arvind Kumar. He was arrested by the ED under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. ED had said Gupta's role in the case came to light on the basis of disclosures made by Rajiv Saxena, who has turned approver in the case after he was deported from the UAE and arrested by the agency here. It is suspected that Gupta has in his possession payment details of the Rs 3,600-crore deal to purchase AgustaWestland VVIP choppers.

VVIP chopper scam: Enforcement Directorate files supplementary charge sheet against alleged middleman

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday conducted raids at multiple locations of former directors in connection with the Infrastructure Leasing &amp; Financial Services Limited (IL&amp;FS) payment default crisis, officials said.

The searches are being conducted in connection with the Prevention of Money Laundering Act case in multi-crore IL&amp;FS payment default crisis.

IL&amp;FS has defaulted on payment of loans to SIDBI and along with its subsidiaries has a combined debt of over Rs 94,000 crore.

The debt crisis at the infrastructure lender came to light following a series of defaults by its group companies beginning September 2018.

However, the government expects to recover up to Rs 50,000 crore from the sale of entities belonging to Infrastructure Leasing &amp; Financial Services (IL&amp;FS) group and pay back its lenders, sources said.&nbsp;

The beleaguered firm has an estimated debt of over Rs 94,000 crore.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday conducted raids at multiple locations of former directors in connection with the Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services Limited (IL&FS) payment default crisis, officials said.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday conducted raids at multiple locations of former directors in connection with the Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services Limited (IL&FS) payment default crisis, officials said. The searches are being conducted in connection with the Prevention of Money Laundering Act case in multi-crore IL&FS payment default crisis. IL&FS has defaulted on payment of loans to SIDBI and along with its subsidiaries has a combined debt of over Rs 94,000 crore. The debt crisis at the infrastructure lender came to light following a series of defaults by its group companies beginning September 2018. However, the government expects to recover up to Rs 50,000 crore from the sale of entities belonging to Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services (IL&FS) group and pay back its lenders, sources said. The beleaguered firm has an estimated debt of over Rs 94,000 crore. (With inputs from agencies)

IL&FS payment default crisis: Enforcement Directorate conducts raid on former Directors in Mumbai

Former ICICI Bank CEO and MD, Chanda Kochhar and her husband Deepak Kochhar have been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/icici-videocon-loan-case-chanda-kochhar-husband-appear-before-enforment-directorate-218321">called by the Enforcement Directorate</a> (ED) again on Tuesday for questioning in connection with ICICI-Videocon loan case.

They were summoned by the ED earlier today.&nbsp;

The couple arrived at the Enforcement Directorate's headquarters in Delhi's Khan Market shortly before their scheduled appearance time of 11 am, official sources said.

They said the two were required to assist the investigating officer (IO) in taking the probe forward and their statement would be recorded under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The couple was supposed to depose before the agency early this month but they had then sought an extension of time and were allowed.

Chanda Kochhar's brother-in-law (Deepak's brother) Rajiv Kochhar has also been grilled by the ED multiple times in the case a few days ago here.

The ED has registered a criminal case under the PMLA early this year against Chanda Kochhar, Deepak Kochhar, Dhoot and others to probe alleged irregularities and corrupt practices in sanctioning of Rs 1,875-crore loans by ICICI Bank to the corporate group.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Former ICICI Bank CEO and MD, Chanda Kochhar and her husband Deepak Kochhar have been called by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) again on Tuesday for questioning in connection with ICICI-Videocon loan case.

Former ICICI Bank CEO and MD, Chanda Kochhar and her husband Deepak Kochhar have been called by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) again on Tuesday for questioning in connection with ICICI-Videocon loan case. They were summoned by the ED earlier today. The couple arrived at the Enforcement Directorate's headquarters in Delhi's Khan Market shortly before their scheduled appearance time of 11 am, official sources said. They said the two were required to assist the investigating officer (IO) in taking the probe forward and their statement would be recorded under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The couple was supposed to depose before the agency early this month but they had then sought an extension of time and were allowed. Chanda Kochhar's brother-in-law (Deepak's brother) Rajiv Kochhar has also been grilled by the ED multiple times in the case a few days ago here. The ED has registered a criminal case under the PMLA early this year against Chanda Kochhar, Deepak Kochhar, Dhoot and others to probe alleged irregularities and corrupt practices in sanctioning of Rs 1,875-crore loans by ICICI Bank to the corporate group. (With inputs from PTI)

ICICI-Videocon loan case: Chanda Kochhar, husband to appear before Enforcement Directorate again on Tuesday

A Delhi court on Friday extended the interim protection from arrest granted to former Union minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram in connection with the Aircel-Maxis cases till May 6.

The cases are being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

The ED, through its counsel Advocate Naveen Kumar Matta, sought adjournment of the matter for four weeks as the response to Letters Rogatory from Singapore is awaited.

The court fixed the next date of hearing as May 6.

During the course of today's hearing, Chidambaram's counsel insisted on argument and objected ED's demand for a four-week extension.

The court, however, adjourned the matter to May 6 for arguments on bail but told the ED that the matter won't be delayed any further.

Senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who represented the father-son duo, argued why bail cannot be granted to their clients when a charge sheet in the matter has been filed.

"They should show the court what they have found. Till then they should grant us bail. As and when they come up with the information we will come to you. CBI has not gone further in the matter. We should get bail in CBI case," said Sibal.

"There is a triple test that we need to look into. Just because someone says that they may get something that doesn't mean the bail cannot be granted," Singhvi argued.

The ED's counsel then retorted to Sibal's statement, saying it was incorrect to say that no steps were taken.

"We have deputed a senior officer in Singapore. We have taken steps even in March and we have put that on the affidavit."

The case pertains to an approval granted by the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB), a body under Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, to Mauritius-based firm Global Communication and Services Holdings Limited for investment in Aircel in alleged violation of norms.

The FIPB approval was allegedly granted in 2006 when Chidambaram was India's Finance Minister.

According to rules and foreign direct investment (FDI) policy of the Central government, Chidambaram was only empowered to give approval to proposals involving foreign investment up to Rs 600 crore.

However, he is accused of approving foreign investment proposal of Global Communication and Services Holdings Ltd worth around Rs 3,560 crore.

A Delhi court on Friday extended the interim protection from arrest granted to former Union minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram in connection with the Aircel-Maxis cases till May 6.

A Delhi court on Friday extended the interim protection from arrest granted to former Union minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram in connection with the Aircel-Maxis cases till May 6. The cases are being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The ED, through its counsel Advocate Naveen Kumar Matta, sought adjournment of the matter for four weeks as the response to Letters Rogatory from Singapore is awaited. The court fixed the next date of hearing as May 6. During the course of today's hearing, Chidambaram's counsel insisted on argument and objected ED's demand for a four-week extension. The court, however, adjourned the matter to May 6 for arguments on bail but told the ED that the matter won't be delayed any further. Senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who represented the father-son duo, argued why bail cannot be granted to their clients when a charge sheet in the matter has been filed. "They should show the court what they have found. Till then they should grant us bail. As and when they come up with the information we will come to you. CBI has not gone further in the matter. We should get bail in CBI case," said Sibal. "There is a triple test that we need to look into. Just because someone says that they may get something that doesn't mean the bail cannot be granted," Singhvi argued. The ED's counsel then retorted to Sibal's statement, saying it was incorrect to say that no steps were taken. "We have deputed a senior officer in Singapore. We have taken steps even in March and we have put that on the affidavit." The case pertains to an approval granted by the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB), a body under Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, to Mauritius-based firm Global Communication and Services Holdings Limited for investment in Aircel in alleged violation of norms. The FIPB approval was allegedly granted in 2006 when Chidambaram was India's Finance Minister. According to rules and foreign direct investment (FDI) policy of the Central government, Chidambaram was only empowered to give approval to proposals involving foreign investment up to Rs 600 crore. However, he is accused of approving foreign investment proposal of Global Communication and Services Holdings Ltd worth around Rs 3,560 crore.

Aircel-Maxis case: Protection from arrest to P Chidambaram, son Karti extended till May 6

The ED has summoned former ICICI Bank CEO Chanda Kochhar and her husband Deepak Kochhar next week in connection with a money laundering case related to a bank loan fraud, officials said.

They said while Chanda has been summoned for May 3, Deepak and his brother Rajiv have been asked to depose on April 30 before the investigating officer of the case and record their statements under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The summons were served to them last week, they added.

They are required to assist the IO in taking the probe forward, they said, adding the three have been asked to bring certain documents related to their personal and official finances.

They have been questioned in the past too at the Enforcement Directorate office in Mumbai after the central agency conducted raids in this case on March 1.

The searches were conducted at the premises of Chanda Kochhar, her family and Venugopal Dhoot of Videocon Group in Mumbai and Aurangabad.

The ED has registered a criminal case under the PMLA early this year against Chanda Kochhar, Deepak Kochhar, Dhoot and others to probe alleged irregularities and corrupt practices in sanctioning of Rs 1,875-crore loans by ICICI Bank to the corporate group.

This ED action was based on a CBI FIR. The CBI has named all the three and Dhoot's companies - Videocon International Electronics Ltd (VIEL) and Videocon Industries Limited (VIL).

The CBI also named Supreme Energy, a company founded by Dhoot, and NuPower Renewables, a company controlled by Deepak Kochhar, in the FIR.&nbsp;

The ED has summoned former ICICI Bank CEO Chanda Kochhar and her husband Deepak Kochhar next week in connection with a money laundering case related to a bank loan fraud, officials said.

The ED has summoned former ICICI Bank CEO Chanda Kochhar and her husband Deepak Kochhar next week in connection with a money laundering case related to a bank loan fraud, officials said. They said while Chanda has been summoned for May 3, Deepak and his brother Rajiv have been asked to depose on April 30 before the investigating officer of the case and record their statements under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The summons were served to them last week, they added. They are required to assist the IO in taking the probe forward, they said, adding the three have been asked to bring certain documents related to their personal and official finances. They have been questioned in the past too at the Enforcement Directorate office in Mumbai after the central agency conducted raids in this case on March 1. The searches were conducted at the premises of Chanda Kochhar, her family and Venugopal Dhoot of Videocon Group in Mumbai and Aurangabad. The ED has registered a criminal case under the PMLA early this year against Chanda Kochhar, Deepak Kochhar, Dhoot and others to probe alleged irregularities and corrupt practices in sanctioning of Rs 1,875-crore loans by ICICI Bank to the corporate group. This ED action was based on a CBI FIR. The CBI has named all the three and Dhoot's companies - Videocon International Electronics Ltd (VIEL) and Videocon Industries Limited (VIL). The CBI also named Supreme Energy, a company founded by Dhoot, and NuPower Renewables, a company controlled by Deepak Kochhar, in the FIR.

ICICI-Videocon case: Enforcement Directorate summons Chanda Kochhar, husband

India on Thursday had suspended trade with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-of-india-suspends-loc-trade-with-pakistan-says-route-being-misused-211563">Pakistan at the Line of Control</a>(LoC), among several reasons was infiltration of third-party goods such as California almonds, when in fact, LoC trade was opened for only intra-Kashmir trade.&nbsp;

What India found was that almonds produced in California were being traded through the LoC and later used to fuel terror in the state by providing hawala money.

The national investigating agency(NIA) was able to find out modus operandi of dubious hawala transactions for terror financing.&nbsp;

Terror groups, identifying themselves as Pakistani trade firms, used to hand over the money to terrorist organizations on the Indian side through the hawala route. Some of the Pakistani firms had a close association with terror groups like Hizbul Mujahideen.

Pakistani traders under invoiced products like California almonds which they received.&nbsp;

On receipt of the consignment, a trader on the Indian side sold the California almonds at the prevailing market price and made extra and undue profit to the extent of under-invoicing.&nbsp;

The extra money generated was handed over by the trader to terrorist organizations in the Valley to fuel anti-India operations.

Basically, Rs 1,200 per kg almonds were under invoiced to Rs 200. On the Indian side, almonds were sold at Rs 1,200, thus getting a profit of Rs 1,000 and addition Rs 1,000 from terror groups from Pakistan.&nbsp;

The Enforcement Directorate(ED) has already chargesheeted businessman Zahoo Ahmed Watali who was the president of LoC traders association. He was found to be funnelling money to terrorists, separatists and subversive elements in the Valley.&nbsp;

Other than funding terror, the trade route had become a channel of funnelling drugs such as cocaine, brown sugar and heroine and supply of arms to support terrorists in the Valley.&nbsp;

Upto 66.5 kg heroin was seized from a Valley-based consignee and the drugs came through the LoC trade. A large cache that was concealed in a consignment of bananas was seized from across the LoC from a driver from Kulgam in the Valley.

The route had become a way to pump fake currency notes - Rs 57 lakh, Rs 20 lakh, Rs 15 lakh&nbsp;and Rs 7.5 lakh&nbsp;- &nbsp;fake currency notes were&nbsp;seized at different time.

Trade was allowed through two Trade Facilitation Centres (TFCs) at Salamabad in Uri, part of the Baramulla district and at Chakkan-da-Bagh in the Poonch district.&nbsp;

The cross-LoC trade was started in 2008 as part of Confidence Building Measures by India and Pakistan for trade between Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Pakistan occupied Kashmir(POK) for 21 agreed items on barter system.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-suspends-cross-loc-trade-with-pakistan-in-jammu-and-kashmir-211807/embed" width="560"></iframe></div>

India on Thursday had suspended trade with Pakistan at the Line of Control(LoC), among several reasons was infiltration of third-party goods such as California almonds, when in fact, LoC trade was opened for only intra-Kashmir trade.

India on Thursday had suspended trade with Pakistan at the Line of Control(LoC), among several reasons was infiltration of third-party goods such as California almonds, when in fact, LoC trade was opened for only intra-Kashmir trade. What India found was that almonds produced in California were being traded through the LoC and later used to fuel terror in the state by providing hawala money. The national investigating agency(NIA) was able to find out modus operandi of dubious hawala transactions for terror financing. Terror groups, identifying themselves as Pakistani trade firms, used to hand over the money to terrorist organizations on the Indian side through the hawala route. Some of the Pakistani firms had a close association with terror groups like Hizbul Mujahideen. Pakistani traders under invoiced products like California almonds which they received. On receipt of the consignment, a trader on the Indian side sold the California almonds at the prevailing market price and made extra and undue profit to the extent of under-invoicing. The extra money generated was handed over by the trader to terrorist organizations in the Valley to fuel anti-India operations. Basically, Rs 1,200 per kg almonds were under invoiced to Rs 200. On the Indian side, almonds were sold at Rs 1,200, thus getting a profit of Rs 1,000 and addition Rs 1,000 from terror groups from Pakistan. The Enforcement Directorate(ED) has already chargesheeted businessman Zahoo Ahmed Watali who was the president of LoC traders association. He was found to be funnelling money to terrorists, separatists and subversive elements in the Valley. Other than funding terror, the trade route had become a channel of funnelling drugs such as cocaine, brown sugar and heroine and supply of arms to support terrorists in the Valley. Upto 66.5 kg heroin was seized from a Valley-based consignee and the drugs came through the LoC trade. A large cache that was concealed in a consignment of bananas was seized from across the LoC from a driver from Kulgam in the Valley. The route had become a way to pump fake currency notes - Rs 57 lakh, Rs 20 lakh, Rs 15 lakh and Rs 7.5 lakh - fake currency notes were seized at different time. Trade was allowed through two Trade Facilitation Centres (TFCs) at Salamabad in Uri, part of the Baramulla district and at Chakkan-da-Bagh in the Poonch district. The cross-LoC trade was started in 2008 as part of Confidence Building Measures by India and Pakistan for trade between Jammu & Kashmir and Pakistan occupied Kashmir(POK) for 21 agreed items on barter system.

How trade in California almonds through LoC route funded terror in J&K

A Delhi court on Thursday dismissed plea of Christian Michel, the alleged middleman arrested in the AgustaWestland chopper scam, who had sought seven-day interim bail to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vvip-chopper-case-christian-michel-seeks-bail-to-celebrate-easter-210947">celebrate Easter with his family</a>.

Special Judge Arvind Kumar refused to grant the relief to Michel.

Special Public Prosecutor DP Singh, appearing for the CBI and the ED, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-court-asks-tihar-authorities-for-christian-michels-prison-footage-203710">opposed Michel's plea</a> saying that India is a country of many festivals and thousands of prisoners have faith in various religions.

The accused, therefore, can't be allowed to go out of jail to celebrate festivals.

Singh said Michel can participate in Easter in custody.

He further argued that if Michel comes out on interim bail and makes some statement relating to the case, it would derail investigation.

Michel's lawyer argued that since the chargesheet has been filed, there is no point of tampering evidence. He said the accused is cooperating in the case.

"Being a Christian, he was not even allowed to offer a holy mass even during Christmas...," said the application moved by the accused.

"It is submitted that the week commencing form 14th April to 21st April is a holy week for Christians and 21st April is Easter which will be celebrated universally. The petitioner wishes to attend the holy mass on Easter day and would like to make offerings during the Easter day," Michel has said in his plea.

The Enforcement Directorate filed a supplementary chargesheet against Michel and others on April 4. He was arrested by ED on December 22 after his extradition from Dubai.

He is among the three alleged middlemen being probed in the chopper scam by ED and Central Bureau of Investigation. Guido Haschke and Carlo Gerosa are the two others.

The agency had told the court that Michel made 24.25 million euros and 1,60,96,245 pounds from the AgustaWestland deal.

ED has told the court that it identified Michel's properties purchased with proceeds of the crime.

CBI has alleged that the deal signed in February 2010 to supply VVIP choppers, worth 556.262 million euros, caused an estimated loss of 398.21 million euros (about Rs 2,666 crore).

On January 1, 2014, India scrapped the contract with Italy-based Finmeccanica's British subsidiary AgustaWestland for supplying 12 AW-101 VVIP choppers to the IAF over alleged breach of contractual obligations and charges of paying kickbacks.

The CBI on September 1, 2017, had filed a charge sheet in the case in which Michel was named as one of the accused. 
&nbsp;

A Delhi court on Thursday dismissed plea of Christian Michel, the alleged middleman arrested in the AgustaWestland chopper scam, who had sought seven-day interim bail to celebrate Easter with his family.

A Delhi court on Thursday dismissed plea of Christian Michel, the alleged middleman arrested in the AgustaWestland chopper scam, who had sought seven-day interim bail to celebrate Easter with his family. Special Judge Arvind Kumar refused to grant the relief to Michel. Special Public Prosecutor DP Singh, appearing for the CBI and the ED, opposed Michel's plea saying that India is a country of many festivals and thousands of prisoners have faith in various religions. The accused, therefore, can't be allowed to go out of jail to celebrate festivals. Singh said Michel can participate in Easter in custody. He further argued that if Michel comes out on interim bail and makes some statement relating to the case, it would derail investigation. Michel's lawyer argued that since the chargesheet has been filed, there is no point of tampering evidence. He said the accused is cooperating in the case. "Being a Christian, he was not even allowed to offer a holy mass even during Christmas...," said the application moved by the accused. "It is submitted that the week commencing form 14th April to 21st April is a holy week for Christians and 21st April is Easter which will be celebrated universally. The petitioner wishes to attend the holy mass on Easter day and would like to make offerings during the Easter day," Michel has said in his plea. The Enforcement Directorate filed a supplementary chargesheet against Michel and others on April 4. He was arrested by ED on December 22 after his extradition from Dubai. He is among the three alleged middlemen being probed in the chopper scam by ED and Central Bureau of Investigation. Guido Haschke and Carlo Gerosa are the two others. The agency had told the court that Michel made 24.25 million euros and 1,60,96,245 pounds from the AgustaWestland deal. ED has told the court that it identified Michel's properties purchased with proceeds of the crime. CBI has alleged that the deal signed in February 2010 to supply VVIP choppers, worth 556.262 million euros, caused an estimated loss of 398.21 million euros (about Rs 2,666 crore). On January 1, 2014, India scrapped the contract with Italy-based Finmeccanica's British subsidiary AgustaWestland for supplying 12 AW-101 VVIP choppers to the IAF over alleged breach of contractual obligations and charges of paying kickbacks. The CBI on September 1, 2017, had filed a charge sheet in the case in which Michel was named as one of the accused.

AgustaWestland chopper scam: Court dismisses Christian Michel's plea for bail to celebrate Easter

Taking cognizance of the supplementary charge sheet filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in AgustaWestland money laundering case, a Delhi court on Saturday summoned David Syms, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-was-charge-sheet-leaked-cbi-court-asks-in-agustawestland-deal-case-208395">alleged partner and director of ''middleman'' Christian Michel</a>’s firm and two other firms to appear before it on May 9.

ED, on April 4, filed a charge sheet against AgustaWestland deal alleged middlemen Christian Michel in Patiala House court, in which it claimed to have traced the trail of 70 million euros that had come allegedly in the form of "kickbacks" in the Rs 3600-crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal.

In the more than 2000-page supplementary charge sheet submitted before Special CBI Judge Arvind Kumar, the agency had named two firms -- Global Services FZE and Global Trade and Commerce Limited, besides David Syms as an accused in the case.

In the last hearing on April 5, Michel, through his counsel Aljo K Joseph moved the Delhi court claiming that he has not taken any names before the Enforcement Directorate.

He also alleged that the central leadership was using government agencies to suit their "personal agendas".

Joseph also told the court that a copy of the charge sheet was provided to media before it was provided to Christian Michel.

Michel, who was extradited from the UAE in December last year, is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with the CBI and ED cases against him related to the AgustaWestland deal scam.

Taking cognizance of the supplementary charge sheet filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in AgustaWestland money laundering case, a Delhi court on Saturday summoned David Syms, alleged partner and director of ''middleman'' Christian Michel’s firm and two other firms to appear before it on May 9.

Taking cognizance of the supplementary charge sheet filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in AgustaWestland money laundering case, a Delhi court on Saturday summoned David Syms, alleged partner and director of ''middleman'' Christian Michel’s firm and two other firms to appear before it on May 9. ED, on April 4, filed a charge sheet against AgustaWestland deal alleged middlemen Christian Michel in Patiala House court, in which it claimed to have traced the trail of 70 million euros that had come allegedly in the form of "kickbacks" in the Rs 3600-crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal. In the more than 2000-page supplementary charge sheet submitted before Special CBI Judge Arvind Kumar, the agency had named two firms -- Global Services FZE and Global Trade and Commerce Limited, besides David Syms as an accused in the case. In the last hearing on April 5, Michel, through his counsel Aljo K Joseph moved the Delhi court claiming that he has not taken any names before the Enforcement Directorate. He also alleged that the central leadership was using government agencies to suit their "personal agendas". Joseph also told the court that a copy of the charge sheet was provided to media before it was provided to Christian Michel. Michel, who was extradited from the UAE in December last year, is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with the CBI and ED cases against him related to the AgustaWestland deal scam.

Delhi Court summons Christian Michel's partner in AgustaWestland case

Christian Michel, the alleged middleman arrested in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vvip-choppers-mp-cm-kamal-naths-nephew-appears-before-ed-207853">AgustaWestland VVIP choppers</a> deal case, is understood to have identified the initials "AP" as Congress leader Ahmed Patel in a chargesheet filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) before a court on Thursday.

The chargesheet said according to the "budget sheet, 30 million euros were paid to Air Force officers, bureaucrats and politicians" to swing the deal in the favour of AgustaWestland for purchasing the choppers to ferry VVIPs across the country.

"Christian Michel James has further disclosed various abbreviations used in the budget sheet, which contains the details of the payments made to Air Force officials, bureaucrats and political persons.

As per Christian Michel James, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/agustawestland-case-ed-arrests-alleged-middleman-sushen-mohan-gupta-205689">'AP' means Ahmed Patel</a> and 'Fam' means Family," the ED said.

At another place in the chargesheet, Michel said, "I cannot say what Haschke was thinking. As a guess, I would think he was talking about Ahmed Patel."

Regarding "Fam", he said it "could mean family".

While the identity of the said Ahmed Patel is not clear, it is understood that it refers to the senior Congress leader. The veteran leader has not been named in the PMLA FIR of the case.

In the same chargesheet, Rajiv Saxena, another accused arrested in the case, has been quoted by the ED as saying that "AP" was a "reference" to Ahmed Patel.

Patel in the past has denied any wrongdoing in the case.

The ED said the kickback paid by the Anglo-Italian firm in the case was "at least about 12 per cent of the contract amount" and around 70 million euros were paid through the two middlemen involved in the case - Michel and Guido Haschke.

It added that this was an "undisputed fact" that the two middlemen had received kickbacks worth 70 million euros.

The agency said this fact could be corroborated with the receipt of kickbacks in the bank accounts of companies "controlled and beneficially owned" by Michel and Haschke.&nbsp;

It said the company "enlisted" the two as agents for the VVIP choppers deal in India as it wanted to promote its product and ensure that it became a frontrunner to bag the deal.&nbsp;

The central probe agency, in its 3,000-page supplementary chargesheet with 52 main pages, also named David Syms, Michel's alleged business partner, and two firms owned by them - Global Trade and Commerce Ltd and Global Services FZE - as accused.

In its first chargesheet filed against Michel in June 2016, the ED had alleged that he and others had received 30 million euros (about Rs 225 crore) from AgustaWestland.

Special Judge Arvind Kumar said he would decide on whether to take cognisance of the ED's supplementary chargesheet and summon the accused on April 6.

Christian Michel, the alleged middleman arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP choppers deal case, is understood to have identified the initials "AP" as Congress leader Ahmed Patel in a chargesheet filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) before a court on Thursday.

Christian Michel, the alleged middleman arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP choppers deal case, is understood to have identified the initials "AP" as Congress leader Ahmed Patel in a chargesheet filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) before a court on Thursday. The chargesheet said according to the "budget sheet, 30 million euros were paid to Air Force officers, bureaucrats and politicians" to swing the deal in the favour of AgustaWestland for purchasing the choppers to ferry VVIPs across the country. "Christian Michel James has further disclosed various abbreviations used in the budget sheet, which contains the details of the payments made to Air Force officials, bureaucrats and political persons. As per Christian Michel James, 'AP' means Ahmed Patel and 'Fam' means Family," the ED said. At another place in the chargesheet, Michel said, "I cannot say what Haschke was thinking. As a guess, I would think he was talking about Ahmed Patel." Regarding "Fam", he said it "could mean family". While the identity of the said Ahmed Patel is not clear, it is understood that it refers to the senior Congress leader. The veteran leader has not been named in the PMLA FIR of the case. In the same chargesheet, Rajiv Saxena, another accused arrested in the case, has been quoted by the ED as saying that "AP" was a "reference" to Ahmed Patel. Patel in the past has denied any wrongdoing in the case. The ED said the kickback paid by the Anglo-Italian firm in the case was "at least about 12 per cent of the contract amount" and around 70 million euros were paid through the two middlemen involved in the case - Michel and Guido Haschke. It added that this was an "undisputed fact" that the two middlemen had received kickbacks worth 70 million euros. The agency said this fact could be corroborated with the receipt of kickbacks in the bank accounts of companies "controlled and beneficially owned" by Michel and Haschke. It said the company "enlisted" the two as agents for the VVIP choppers deal in India as it wanted to promote its product and ensure that it became a frontrunner to bag the deal. The central probe agency, in its 3,000-page supplementary chargesheet with 52 main pages, also named David Syms, Michel's alleged business partner, and two firms owned by them - Global Trade and Commerce Ltd and Global Services FZE - as accused. In its first chargesheet filed against Michel in June 2016, the ED had alleged that he and others had received 30 million euros (about Rs 225 crore) from AgustaWestland. Special Judge Arvind Kumar said he would decide on whether to take cognisance of the ED's supplementary chargesheet and summon the accused on April 6.

AgustaWestland case: Michel identifies 'AP' as Ahmed Patel in ED chargesheet

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/didnt-name-anyone-in-connection-with-chopper-deal-michel-tells-delhi-court-pm-modi-says-charge-sheet-names-ahmed-patel-family-208154">Didn't name anyone in connection with chopper deal, Michel tells Delhi court; PM Modi says charge sheet names 'Ahmed Patel', 'family'</a>

Christian Michel, alleged middleman arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP Chopper scam, told a Delhi court on Friday that he has not named anybody in connection with the deal during the investigation by the Enforcement Directorate, which has filed a supplementary charge sheet, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-kills-hundreds-of-suspected-militants-in-disputed-gun-battles-report-208140">Egypt kills hundreds of suspected militants in disputed gun battles: Report</a>

Mohamed Abu Amer, a landscape gardener, was working in downtown Cairo when national security agents took him away on February 6, 2018, his family said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wikileaks-assange-to-be-expelled-within-hours-to-days-british-fm-hunt-calls-him-free-man-208151">WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange to be expelled within 'hours to days' from Ecuador embassy; arrest likely</a>

A WikiLeaks tweets posted on Friday reported that WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange will be expelled within "hours to days" from the Ecuador embassy and that there already exists an agreement with the United Kingdom for his arrest.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-polls-see-netanyahu-ahead-but-many-still-undecided-208162">Israeli polls see Netanyahu ahead, but many still undecided</a>

Final authorised opinion polls published Friday just days ahead of the Israeli general elections showed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu heading for a fifth term in office, leading a right-wing coalition.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-sp-releases-vision-document-calls-for-mega-transformation-208133">Lok Sabha polls: Samajwadi Party releases 'vision document'; calls for mega transformation</a>

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Friday released party manifesto ahead of the Lok Sabha polls due next week. Calling the manifesto their "vision document", Yadav said the document will be used for "answering the BJP".&nbsp;

Didn't name anyone in connection with chopper deal, Michel tells Delhi court; PM Modi says charge sheet names 'Ahmed Patel', 'family' Christian Michel, alleged middleman arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP Chopper scam, told a Delhi court on Friday that he has not named anybody in connection with the deal during the investigation by the Enforcement Directorate, which has filed a supplementary charge sheet, news agency PTI reported.

Didn't name anyone in connection with chopper deal, Michel tells Delhi court; PM Modi says charge sheet names 'Ahmed Patel', 'family' Christian Michel, alleged middleman arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP Chopper scam, told a Delhi court on Friday that he has not named anybody in connection with the deal during the investigation by the Enforcement Directorate, which has filed a supplementary charge sheet, news agency PTI reported. Egypt kills hundreds of suspected militants in disputed gun battles: Report Mohamed Abu Amer, a landscape gardener, was working in downtown Cairo when national security agents took him away on February 6, 2018, his family said. WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange to be expelled within 'hours to days' from Ecuador embassy; arrest likely A WikiLeaks tweets posted on Friday reported that WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange will be expelled within "hours to days" from the Ecuador embassy and that there already exists an agreement with the United Kingdom for his arrest. Israeli polls see Netanyahu ahead, but many still undecided Final authorised opinion polls published Friday just days ahead of the Israeli general elections showed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu heading for a fifth term in office, leading a right-wing coalition. Lok Sabha polls: Samajwadi Party releases 'vision document'; calls for mega transformation Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Friday released party manifesto ahead of the Lok Sabha polls due next week. Calling the manifesto their "vision document", Yadav said the document will be used for "answering the BJP".

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday opposed the anticipatory bail plea of Robert Vadra in a money laundering case. Appearing before the Patiala House Court in Delhi, ED advocate DP Singh said, "We need his custodial interrogation, we have sufficient material."

The ED further said that Vadra was a common citizen a few years ago, didn't have any property and is now involved in huge deals.

"Robert Vadra is the kingpin. He is connected with a political family and makes mockery of the system. He plays important role in defence deals in exchange of hefty commission," the agency further said before the court.

Vadra's counsel KTS Tulsi And Abhishek Manu Singhvi opposed the ED request for custodian interrogation saying the agency has all the documents. "They have already questioned my client for 60 hours but didn't find anything. They also have the emails of my client, so there is no need for any custodial interrogation," advocate Tulsi said.

The court had last week granted Vadra relief from arrest; Vadra had filed an anticipatory bail application in a case linked to allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million pounds.

The property is reportedly owned by him.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday opposed the anticipatory bail plea of Robert Vadra in a money laundering case. Appearing before the Patiala House Court in Delhi, ED advocate DP Singh said, "We need his custodial interrogation, we have sufficient material.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday opposed the anticipatory bail plea of Robert Vadra in a money laundering case. Appearing before the Patiala House Court in Delhi, ED advocate DP Singh said, "We need his custodial interrogation, we have sufficient material." The ED further said that Vadra was a common citizen a few years ago, didn't have any property and is now involved in huge deals. "Robert Vadra is the kingpin. He is connected with a political family and makes mockery of the system. He plays important role in defence deals in exchange of hefty commission," the agency further said before the court. Vadra's counsel KTS Tulsi And Abhishek Manu Singhvi opposed the ED request for custodian interrogation saying the agency has all the documents. "They have already questioned my client for 60 hours but didn't find anything. They also have the emails of my client, so there is no need for any custodial interrogation," advocate Tulsi said. The court had last week granted Vadra relief from arrest; Vadra had filed an anticipatory bail application in a case linked to allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million pounds. The property is reportedly owned by him.

Common citizen Robert Vadra now involved in huge deals, says ED seeking his custody

The Delhi High Court on Monday refused to grant interim relief to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-court-extends-robert-vadras-anticipatory-bail-till-march-25-ed-says-his-custodial-interrogation-required-204293">accused Robert Vadra</a> and Manoj Arora on their pleas seeking quashing of an FIR registered by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a money laundering case.

"The anticipatory bail plea is already being heard in the Patiala House court, hence, we will not interfere right now," a division bench comprising Justices Hima Kohli and Vinod Goel said.&nbsp;

It directed the ED to furnish a copy of the Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR)/FIR filed in Delhi against Vadra, brother-in-law of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, and his aide Arora.

The bench asked the agency to file a response to another prayer of the petitioners challenging the constitutional validity of certain sections of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

During the proceedings, Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta questioned the maintainability of the petition, saying that the matter concerned is pending before the Supreme Court.

Mehta, appearing for the ED, told the court that Vadra and Arora`s pleas seeking quashing of the case against them is an abuse of the process of the law.

The court also sought a response from the Centre and then slated the matter for hearing on May 2. Vadra has challenged sections 3 (offence of money laundering), 19 (power to arrest), 24 (burden of proof) and 50 (powers of authorities regarding summons, production of documents and evidence, etc) of the PMLA.

Senior advocates Abhishek Manu Singhvi and KTS Tulsi appeared for Vadra and Arora while Solicitor General Tusshar Mehta and advocate DP Singh represented the ED.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Vadra had moved the high court seeking quashing of an FIR registered by the ED in a money laundering case for which he has been interrogated by the agency.

Vadra, husband of Priyanka Gandhi, has also sought to declare certain sections of the PLMA, 2002 as ultra vires to the Constitution.

The money laundering case filed against Vadra is related to the purchase of a London-based property at 12, Bryanston Square, allegedly worth 1.9 million pounds.

The Delhi High Court on Monday refused to grant interim relief to accused Robert Vadra and Manoj Arora on their pleas seeking quashing of an FIR registered by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a money laundering case.

The Delhi High Court on Monday refused to grant interim relief to accused Robert Vadra and Manoj Arora on their pleas seeking quashing of an FIR registered by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a money laundering case. "The anticipatory bail plea is already being heard in the Patiala House court, hence, we will not interfere right now," a division bench comprising Justices Hima Kohli and Vinod Goel said. It directed the ED to furnish a copy of the Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR)/FIR filed in Delhi against Vadra, brother-in-law of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, and his aide Arora. The bench asked the agency to file a response to another prayer of the petitioners challenging the constitutional validity of certain sections of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). During the proceedings, Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta questioned the maintainability of the petition, saying that the matter concerned is pending before the Supreme Court. Mehta, appearing for the ED, told the court that Vadra and Arora`s pleas seeking quashing of the case against them is an abuse of the process of the law. The court also sought a response from the Centre and then slated the matter for hearing on May 2. Vadra has challenged sections 3 (offence of money laundering), 19 (power to arrest), 24 (burden of proof) and 50 (powers of authorities regarding summons, production of documents and evidence, etc) of the PMLA. Senior advocates Abhishek Manu Singhvi and KTS Tulsi appeared for Vadra and Arora while Solicitor General Tusshar Mehta and advocate DP Singh represented the ED. On Wednesday, Vadra had moved the high court seeking quashing of an FIR registered by the ED in a money laundering case for which he has been interrogated by the agency. Vadra, husband of Priyanka Gandhi, has also sought to declare certain sections of the PLMA, 2002 as ultra vires to the Constitution. The money laundering case filed against Vadra is related to the purchase of a London-based property at 12, Bryanston Square, allegedly worth 1.9 million pounds.

Delhi High Court refuses to grant interim relief to Robert Vadra, Manoj Arora

Delhi Court extends Robert Vadra's bail till March 25

Investigation has been initiated against e-commerce giants Amazon and Flipkart for alleged violation of foreign exchange law, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) Monday informed the Delhi High Court.

A bench of Chief Justice Rajendra Menon and Justice A J Bhambhani noted the submissions of the ED that a case has been registered under provisions of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) against the two companies and disposed of a PIL which has alleged that the e-commerce giants were violating foreign direct investment (FDI) norms.

The court had earlier sought response of the central government, Amazon and Flipkart to the plea which has sought a probe into the alleged FDI violations.

The ED, in its reply filed through central government standing counsel Amit Mahajan, has said the "department has already registered and initiated investigation under the provisions of FEMA against the two companies to ascertain whether they have been contravening any provisions of FEMA or contravening any rule, regulations, notification, direction or order issued in exercise of the powers under FEMA...."

The agency also sought dismissal of the petition.

The petition by an NGO, Telecom Watchdog, also asked for initiation of legal proceedings against the two e-commerce companies under the FEMA for alleged violation and circumvention of FDI norms.

The plea, filed through advocate Pranav Sachdeva, has claimed that Amazon and Flipkart have created multiple entities to circumvent the FDI norms and route the hot-selling stock at cheaper rates.

The petition has contended that according to Press Note 3 of 2016, which regulates FDI in e-commerce, entities like Amazon and Flipkart are not to exercise ownership over stock, nor directly or indirectly influence price of goods and services sold on their marketplace.

It claimed that by creating name lending companies, Amazon and Flipkart buy branded goods in bulk at discounts from manufacturers and render small sellers uncompetitive by a wide margin, thus influencing the prices in violation of the FDI norms.

"As a consequence of this FDI norms violation, smaller sellers are unable to participate in the fast-growing e-commerce sector," the plea has contended, adding that due to subsidised prices on such platforms, small sellers are unable to sell in the brick-n-mortar world too.

Besides, the plea has also claimed that the two e-commerce firms have created several other group companies in the chain to divide discounts and losses.

"Exchange offers, EMI costs and bank offers are funded completely or substantially by Amazon and Flipkart and constitute a clear influence on price in violation of FDI norms," it has alleged.

Investigation has been initiated against e-commerce giants Amazon and Flipkart for alleged violation of foreign exchange law, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) Monday informed the Delhi High Court.

Investigation has been initiated against e-commerce giants Amazon and Flipkart for alleged violation of foreign exchange law, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) Monday informed the Delhi High Court. A bench of Chief Justice Rajendra Menon and Justice A J Bhambhani noted the submissions of the ED that a case has been registered under provisions of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) against the two companies and disposed of a PIL which has alleged that the e-commerce giants were violating foreign direct investment (FDI) norms. The court had earlier sought response of the central government, Amazon and Flipkart to the plea which has sought a probe into the alleged FDI violations. The ED, in its reply filed through central government standing counsel Amit Mahajan, has said the "department has already registered and initiated investigation under the provisions of FEMA against the two companies to ascertain whether they have been contravening any provisions of FEMA or contravening any rule, regulations, notification, direction or order issued in exercise of the powers under FEMA...." The agency also sought dismissal of the petition. The petition by an NGO, Telecom Watchdog, also asked for initiation of legal proceedings against the two e-commerce companies under the FEMA for alleged violation and circumvention of FDI norms. The plea, filed through advocate Pranav Sachdeva, has claimed that Amazon and Flipkart have created multiple entities to circumvent the FDI norms and route the hot-selling stock at cheaper rates. The petition has contended that according to Press Note 3 of 2016, which regulates FDI in e-commerce, entities like Amazon and Flipkart are not to exercise ownership over stock, nor directly or indirectly influence price of goods and services sold on their marketplace. It claimed that by creating name lending companies, Amazon and Flipkart buy branded goods in bulk at discounts from manufacturers and render small sellers uncompetitive by a wide margin, thus influencing the prices in violation of the FDI norms. "As a consequence of this FDI norms violation, smaller sellers are unable to participate in the fast-growing e-commerce sector," the plea has contended, adding that due to subsidised prices on such platforms, small sellers are unable to sell in the brick-n-mortar world too. Besides, the plea has also claimed that the two e-commerce firms have created several other group companies in the chain to divide discounts and losses. "Exchange offers, EMI costs and bank offers are funded completely or substantially by Amazon and Flipkart and constitute a clear influence on price in violation of FDI norms," it has alleged.

Enforcement Directorate probes Amazon, Flipkart for violation of foreign exchange law

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