The troubles for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal continue to mount in connection with the Delhi liquor scam and related money laundering allegations. Additional Solicitor General (ASG) SV Raju, representing the Enforcement Directorate (ED), informed the Delhi High Court during the hearing that the ED intends to seize some assets of the Aam Aadmi Party. He also challenged the petition filed in court, suggesting that if such action is not taken, questions about evidence would arise. Raju asserted during the proceedings that the investigation regarding Arvind Kejriwal has not concluded.
Money Laundering Worse Than Homicide: ASG Raju
During the court session, ASG SV Raju emphasized the severity of money laundering crimes, stating that they are even worse than homicide because while homicide is committed in the heat of the moment, money laundering is done with a cool mind. He expressed concern about the prevailing attitude where individuals involved in criminal activities believe they can evade arrest by citing the proximity of elections. Raju emphasized the need for swift action against criminals and their incarceration.
ED Possesses Evidence of Liquor Scam: Highlights from Hearing
ASG SV Raju presented evidence to the court, indicating that all major payments related to the Delhi liquor scam were made in cash. He highlighted that the ED has access to WhatsApp chats, statements from hawala operators, and income tax data. Moreover, the ED accused Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal of being the “mastermind” behind the alcohol scam and labeled him as both the “ringleader” and “conspirator.” The agency asserted that political parties, as the primary beneficiaries of the proceeds of crime, engaged in criminal activities through Kejriwal. The ED further alleged that Kejriwal, along with other Delhi government ministers, AAP leaders, and individuals, orchestrated the Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22 to benefit the “South Group.” This policy, according to the ED, was crafted based on the interests of the South Group’s representatives, including Vijay Nayar, Manish Sisodia, and others. The ED accused AAP of committing financial crimes through Kejriwal, falling within the ambit of Section 70 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002.
