The Aryavarth Express
Agency (Goa): On Thursday, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) questioned Amit Palekar, the president of the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) Goa unit, along with Ramrao Wagh and two others, Dattaprasad Naik and Ashok Naik, in Panaji regarding a money laundering investigation. The summons were issued under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in connection to a case that traces back to the alleged Delhi excise policy scam, implicating Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and other AAP leaders.
Palekar and the others reported to the ED office, with Palekar arriving later in the afternoon. They were released around 6 pm after a day of questioning. Highlighting the scrutiny, Palekar remarked on the situation as the onset of continued harassment against opposition figures by those in power.
Amit Palekar voiced concerns over what he perceives as targeted victimization of the Bhandari community, to which all the summoned individuals belong, describing it as systematic oppression by the ruling authorities. He expressed anticipation of further summonses and potential arrest, emphasizing his readiness to comply with the investigation by providing the requested data.
The AAP leadership in Goa, including MLAs Venzy Viegas and Cruz Silva, rallied outside the ED office in a show of support for Palekar and the others. The questioning session has sparked claims from AAP members that these actions are intended to intimidate party leaders and distract from other political controversies, notably the issue of electoral bonds.
The ED’s allegations suggest that the AAP benefited significantly from proceeds related to the Delhi liquor policy scam, allegedly utilizing a portion of these funds for its Goa electoral campaign in 2022. This event has unfolded amidst a tense political backdrop, raising concerns about the implications for democratic processes and opposition parties in India.