Liquor policy case: ED interrogates Kejriwal's assistant and summons AAP leader Durgesh Pathak
PTC News Desk: In the ongoing saga of Delhi's excise policy case, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its investigation by questioning Bibhav Kumar, the personal assistant (PA) to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Kejriwal himself was arrested by the ED on March 21 and is presently in judicial custody.
The ED, labeling Kejriwal as the "kingpin" of the alleged scam, has been actively pursuing leads in the case. Bibhav Kumar's interrogation marks a significant development in this regard. The central agency's relentless pursuit of evidence led to the arrest of Kejriwal, and they continue to probe further into the matter.
Adding to the momentum of the investigation, the ED has also issued summons to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Durgesh Pathak. Pathak has been called upon to appear before the ED, heightening the scrutiny surrounding AAP's involvement in the case.
This summons to Pathak follows recent claims made by Delhi Minister Atishi, who stated that the ED was set to apprehend four other party leaders allegedly linked to the scandal. Alongside Pathak, Atishi mentioned herself, her ministerial colleague Saurabh Bharadwaj, and Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha. Notably, Chadha is currently abroad for medical treatment.
The ED's assertions gained traction after Kejriwal, during court proceedings following his arrest, purportedly implicated Atishi and Bharadwaj in the case. These claims have added complexity to the investigation, deepening the involvement of AAP's leadership.
With Kejriwal slated to remain in judicial custody until April 15, the ED's actions indicate a thorough examination of all individuals associated with the alleged irregularities in Delhi's liquor policy. As the case unfolds, the spotlight remains firmly fixed on the intersection of politics and governance in the nation's capital.
Also Read: Congress' DNA inclined towards curfew and catering biryani to terrorists: Yogi Adityanath
Also Read: Know why India's solar satellite won't witness today's total solar eclipse
According to sources familiar with the matter, Hindustan Times reports that Bibhav Kumar, serving as the chief minister's personal assistant, is currently under interrogation by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The ED has sought clarifications from Kumar concerning certain documents as part of its ongoing investigation.
Regarding Durgesh Pathak, an unnamed official stated that Pathak's name has surfaced in relation to statements concerning cash transactions during the February 2022 Goa assembly elections. During this electoral event, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) secured two out of 40 assembly seats in Goa, alongside a 6.8 per cent vote-share in the coastal state.
Amit Palekar, the head of AAP's Goa unit who also contested as the CM candidate, has vehemently denied any allegations of misconduct. Palekar maintains that he and other leaders within the local AAP unit are fully prepared to cooperate with any inquiry. The unnamed official mentioned above further stated that Pathak is expected to present himself at the ED headquarters later in the afternoon for questioning.
Also Read: Karnataka police seize Rs 5 cr cash and 106 Kg of jewellery in pre-election crackdown
Also Read: Ranbir Kapoor treats Alia Bhatt to a drive in their new Rs 8 crore Bentley: Catch a glimpse!
(Inputs from agencies)
-
