In a significant development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated searches at the premises of Amanatullah Khan, the Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) representing the Okhla constituency in Delhi. This operation is part of a rigorous investigation into alleged money laundering activities, as per sources familiar with the matter. These searches are being conducted under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Visual evidence shared by news agencies reveals heightened security measures surrounding Khan’s residence in Okhla, where the raids are currently in progress.
Amanatullah Khan, a prominent political figure, also serves as the Chairman of the Delhi Waqf Board, further elevating the significance of this development.
The ED’s actions have been prompted by a FIR filed by the Delhi Anti-Corruption Bureau and another FIR by the Central Bureau of Investigation against Khan. These cases are linked to allegations of corruption associated with irregular appointments within the Delhi Waqf Board. The state alleges that Khan’s role in this matter is tainted by impropriety and misappropriation of funds.
It is worth noting that Khan had previously faced legal consequences when he was arrested by the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) in September of the previous year. The charges against him at that time pertained to alleged irregularities in appointments, financial improprieties, and the misuse of his official position as the Chairman of the Delhi Waqf Board. He was subsequently granted bail by Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court.
The FIR against Khan alleges that during his tenure as the Chairman of the Delhi Waqf Board, he engaged in the unauthorized recruitment of 32 individuals, contravening established norms and government guidelines.
These recent raids on Khan’s premises come on the heels of a similar operation conducted at the residence of AAP Member of Parliament (MP) Sanjay Singh in Delhi, which culminated in Singh’s arrest by federal authorities.
Please note that this is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.