Latest Twist in Delhi Excise Policy Case: ED Interrogates Kejriwal’s PA, Summons AAP MLA
In the ongoing investigation into Delhi’s excise policy case, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has turned its attention to Bibhav Kumar, the personal assistant (PA) to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The agency alleges that Kumar, purportedly the “kingpin” of the supposed scam, was apprehended on March 21.
Furthermore, the ED has issued summons to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Durgesh Pathak, requiring his presence by Monday. This move follows recent claims by Delhi Minister Atishi, who suggested that the agency would also target four other party leaders in connection with the alleged scam: herself, ministerial colleague Saurabh Bharadwaj, Pathak, and Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha, currently abroad for medical treatment.
At a court hearing subsequent to Kejriwal’s arrest, the ED indicated that the AAP national convenor had implicated both Atishi and Bharadwaj. Kejriwal remains in judicial custody until April 15.
According to insiders familiar with the investigation, Kumar’s interrogation by the Enforcement Directorate aims to clarify certain aspects of the probe, particularly concerning specific documents.
Regarding Pathak, an unnamed officer revealed that his name surfaced in statements related to cash transactions during the February 2022 Goa assembly elections, where the AAP secured two out of 40 assembly seats and a 6.8% vote share. Amit Palekar, the party’s Goa unit chief and chief ministerial nominee, has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, asserting readiness to cooperate with any inquiry.
The ED expects Pathak to appear at their headquarters in the afternoon for further questioning.
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