“Sanjay Singh, AAP MP, Detained in money laundering case
New Delhi – The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) faces another setback as the Enforcement Directorate detains its Rajya Sabha MP, Sanjay Singh. This action comes as part of a money laundering investigation linked to Delhi’s liquor policy. Singh’s Delhi residence was the focal point of searches since the early hours of Wednesday.
This marks the third significant detention within the AAP. Previously, Delhi’s Health Minister, Satyendar Jain, faced arrest in May of the preceding year, allegedly for money laundering activities through four affiliated companies.
Yet, the most significant jolt for AAP was in February of the same year. The CBI detained the then Deputy Chief Minister and a close confidant of Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, in relation to the purported liquor policy misconduct.
These actions against Singh ensued post allegations from businessman Dinesh Arora, an accused turned whistleblower in the case. Arora contended that Singh had facilitated a meeting with Sisodia, who then held the position of excise minister.
Searches and Protests
The search operation at the Rajya Sabha MP’s abode began early and lasted several hours. AAP supporters gathered outside, vociferously protesting against BJP and condemning the perceived abuse of power. Reinforcements from the police department were summoned to manage the situation.
After the searches, Singh was escorted to the Enforcement Directorate headquarters for an official statement. He is anticipated to be presented in court by Thursday afternoon, where the agency might request extended custody.
Delhi’s Chief Minister and AAP leader, Arvind Kejriwal, voiced support for Singh during the operation. Implicitly pointing at the BJP, Kejriwal criticized the party for using such measures against opponents, especially with the general elections on the horizon.
Kejriwal stated, “For over a year, there’s been talk of this so-called liquor scam. Despite more than a thousand raids, no illicit funds have been discovered. My own inquiries turned up empty.”
“Alluding to the upcoming elections, he added, “It feels like a last-ditch effort from a party on the back foot.”
Raghav Chadha mirrored Kejriwal’s sentiments post the arrest announcement, directly critiquing the BJP. “After a 15-month-long probe, they have yet to identify any illicit funds. It seems like a blatant political vendetta. The BJP recognizes its diminishing stature,” he remarked.
A Foreseen Arrest?
Despite the multiple chargesheets the Enforcement Directorate has issued concerning the case, Singh’s name has never been listed as an accused, nor has he been previously summoned.
In a prophetic move months ago, Singh shared an image on X, the platform previously known as Twitter. The picture showcased him beside posters outside his home, humorously inviting the Enforcement Directorate to inspect his “modest dwelling.”
