ED Conducts Raids on AAP MP Ashok Mittal
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched a series of raids at the residences and premises of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Mittal and his son. The operations are being carried out simultaneously at his residence in Jalandhar, Punjab, and in Gurugram, Haryana. Notably, Ashok Mittal was recently appointed as the Deputy Leader of AAP in the Rajya Sabha, replacing Raghav Chadha in the position.
Details of Locations and Investigation
The ED has targeted approximately 8 to 9 locations associated with the Member of Parliament and his son across Punjab and Gurugram. Ashok Mittal operates a university, and the current investigation is reportedly linked to alleged financial irregularities involving the institution's funds. The probe aims to uncover discrepancies related to the management of these financial resources and potential money laundering aspects.
Political Reaction from Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann
The Aam Aadmi Party has reacted sharply to the ED's action, accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of political vendetta. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann stated that these raids are a precursor to the upcoming elections in the state. In a social media post, he remarked that the BJP has commenced its election preparations in Punjab. He described the raids on Ashok Mittal’s residence and university as a "typical style" of Prime Minister Modi.
Arvind Kejriwal Criticizes the Enforcement Action
AAP National Convenor and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also condemned the enforcement action through a social media statement. He stated that PM Modi has started preparing for the Punjab elections through these means. Kejriwal asserted that the people of Punjab wouldn't tolerate such actions and would give a fitting reply to the BJP, while the party maintains that the central agency is being used to target political opponents.