The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) finds itself embroiled in controversy as the Enforcement Directorate (ED) alleges violations of several laws regarding foreign funding. As per the ED’s dossier submitted to the Union Home Ministry, AAP received Rs 7.08 crore in foreign funds between 2014 and 2022.
The ED claims that these funds were obtained from multiple donors in countries including the US, Canada, Australia, and others, in violation of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), the Representation of People Act (RPA), and the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
The ED’s investigation points to irregularities in the collection of foreign funds by AAP, accusing some of its leaders, including AAP MLA Durgesh Pathak, of misappropriating funds for personal gain.
Allegations are substantiated by email exchanges between various AAP volunteers and functionaries. The probe suggests that donations were concealed in AAP’s accounts to circumvent FCRA restrictions on foreign donations to political parties.
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The investigation mentions instances where multiple donors used the same passport numbers, email IDs, and credit cards to donate to AAP. The ED has shared detailed information, including donor names, passport numbers, and donation amounts, with the Union Home Ministry. It alleges that AAP concealed the identities and nationalities of foreign donors to evade legal restrictions.
Further, the ED accuses AAP of setting up a body called AAP Overseas India, tasked with mobilizing foreign funds, and alleges a target of Rs 50 crore in overseas donations was set for volunteers in 2016.
During fundraising events in Canada in 2015 and 2016, the probe suggests discrepancies between actual donors and AAP’s official records.
The unfolding controversy underscores the complexities between politics and finance in Bharat and raises questions about transparency and accountability in political funding. As investigations continue, the spotlight remains on AAP and its leaders, as they navigate through these turbulent waters amidst accusations and denials.
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