Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal faces allegations of involvement in a money laundering scheme benefiting his political party, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has asserted that Kejriwal utilized his position to commit offenses under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) during the implementation of the Delhi excise policy 2021-22.
According to the ED, Kejriwal, who also serves as the national convener of AAP, is not only the mastermind behind the party but also exercises significant control over its operations. The agency claims that Kejriwal played a pivotal role in decision-making processes, including those related to the excise policy, and allegedly demanded kickbacks from liquor businessmen in exchange for favors.
The ED has classified AAP as a “company” under the PMLA, holding it liable for offenses committed. The agency alleges that AAP benefited from the proceeds of crime, with a portion of the funds allegedly used in the AAP’s election campaign during the Goa assembly elections in 2022.
Furthermore, the ED asserts that Kejriwal, in his capacity as the CM of Delhi, facilitated the money laundering offenses committed by AAP. Despite not being directly involved in the offenses, Kejriwal is deemed vicariously liable due to his role as the national convener and his active involvement in the party’s affairs.
The agency has implicated AAP MLA Durgesh Pathak in the case, alleging that he played a role in managing cash payments related to election campaign activities in Goa. Statements from AAP candidates and volunteers purportedly corroborate these claims.
Kejriwal’s alleged involvement extends to the formulation of the excise policy, conspiring with government ministers and AAP leaders, and using proceeds of crime in the party’s election campaign. The ED contends that Kejriwal failed to prevent the offenses despite having knowledge of them.
As a result of these allegations, Kejriwal spent the night at the ED headquarters, where he received medical attention due to his diabetes. While he was not questioned by the probe team, the ED has stated its intention to prosecute Kejriwal and AAP under the PMLA.
The accusations against Kejriwal mark a significant development in Indian politics, raising questions about ethical conduct and transparency within political parties. The investigation is ongoing, and further developments are awaited as the legal process unfolds.
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