Patiala House Court Extends MK Faizi’s ED Remand For 3 More Days

Patiala House Court has granted a 3-day extension to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) remand of MK Faizi, the President of the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI). The ED had initially requested a 5-day remand, citing the need to recover crucial evidence and obtain answers to pending questions related to the case.

The lawyer representing the ED argued in court that several pieces of evidence remain to be recovered and that some questions posed to Faizi have yet to be answered. As a result, the ED requested an additional 5-day remand to continue its investigation. However, Faizi opposed the extension of his remand period, contesting the request in court.

ED Intensifies Action Against SDPI

This development comes as the ED tightens its grip on the Social Democratic Party of India, which is closely linked to the banned Popular Front of India (PFI).

In a significant move, the ED raided approximately 12 locations connected to SDPI. The raids took place across several cities, including New Delhi, Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh), Chennai, Pakur (Jharkhand), SDPI’s headquarters in Kerala, as well as Trivandrum, Malappuram, Kolkata, and Nandyal (Andhra Pradesh).

Also Read: Haier Appliances India Aims For $2 Billion In Sales By 2028

Faizi, who was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate at Indira Gandhi International Airport, had previously been placed on a 6-day remand. After his remand period expired, he was presented again before Patiala House Court, where the ED sought an extension.

Arrest Linked To Money Laundering Case

Faizi’s arrest is based on significant evidence, including electronic records, which were uncovered during the ongoing investigation into money laundering activities. The ED’s probe has revealed that the Social Democratic Party of India, considered to be the political wing of the banned PFI, received more than Rs 11 crore in donations from 2018-2019.

Background Of SDPI

The SDPI was formed in June 2009 as an unrecognized political party in Delhi and was registered with the Election Commission in April 2010. The central government had imposed a five-year ban on PFI and several affiliated organizations in 2022 due to their alleged involvement in anti-national activities.

As the investigation continues, the ED’s actions against Faizi and SDPI highlight the government’s efforts to clamp down on organizations associated with the banned PFI and address allegations of money laundering and other illegal activities.