The day is marked by explosive allegations and rising tensions as AAP leaders are the target of ED raids.
February 6, Delhi : Today, raids by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) at the homes of several prominent Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) officials, including the personal secretary of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Bibhav Kumar and Rajya Sabha MP, ND Gupta, set off a political firestorm in Delhi. In a rapid reprisal, the AAP accused the ED of utilizing coercive measures and manipulating evidence as part of their continuing investigation into possible money laundering connected to the Delhi excise policy.
AAP Leader Atishi leads the counteroffensive:
At a press briefing, Delhi Minister Atishi levelled a number of sharp accusations at the ED. Despite court orders, she claimed that intimidation and compulsion were used to get witness testimonies that were used in the inquiry. She also pointed out that there were no audio or video records. She also questioned the ED’s lack of tangible proof in spite of multiple raids, pointing out that no “laundered money” had been found.
AAP claims their expose is targeted by ED raids:
Atishi went on to say that her planned “explosive expose” on the agency’s actions was the reason behind the ED raids. She promised to carry out the expose and that it will uncover the veracity of the ED’s charges against the AAP.
ED probes Delhi Jal Board 'corruption' case
— TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) February 6, 2024
ED raids Arvind Kejriwal's personal secretary, Bibhav Kumar, AAP Rajya Sabha MP, ND Gupta, and others.
ED raids are going on in 12 locations. These raids are in connection with money laundering...: @RishabhMPratap with details.… pic.twitter.com/haAOvlRRNi
ED maintains its focus on money laundering probe:
Although the ED has not yet made a public statement, sources insist that the raids are a component of their ongoing investigation into possible money laundering connected to the Delhi Jal Board. They don’t say anything about the accusations made by the AAP.
The already complicated relationship between the AAP and the central government is even more complicated in light of the most recent happenings. The accusations and rebuttals cast doubt on the investigation’s objectivity and raise the possibility of political motivations. Given how hard both sides are pressing their positions, it is still uncertain how this story will turn out and what effect it will have on Delhi’s political climate.