ED Raids SDPI Offices Across Multiple States After President’s Arrest

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its action against the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI), the political wing of the banned Popular Front of India (PFI). Officials are conducting raids at 12 locations linked to SDPI across multiple states.

These raids are taking place in New Delhi, Lucknow, Chennai, Pakur, Kerala (including its headquarters in Trivandrum and Malappuram), Kolkata, and Nandyal in Andhra Pradesh. The crackdown follows the arrest of SDPI President M.K. Faizi.

ED arrested Faizi at Indira Gandhi International Airport. He was presented before Patiala House Court and sent on a six-day remand. His arrest marks the 27th in the ongoing PFI-related investigations. Officials have gathered strong electronic and documentary evidence against him in a recent money laundering case.

The Social Democratic Party of India reportedly received over ₹11 crore in donations from 2018-19. Founded in June 2009, SDPI was registered with the Election Commission in April 2010.

PFI Ban And Government Action

The central government banned PFI and its affiliated organizations, including Rehab India Foundation and the All India Imam Council, in 2022 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Following the ban, Faizi had criticized the move, calling it an attack on democracy. He had alleged that anyone opposing BJP’s policies faced raids and arrests.

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