The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a plea challenging the anticipatory bail granted to Robert Vadra, son-in-law of Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, in a money laundering case. The ED has accused Vadra of violating the bail conditions imposed by the court.
According to the plea filed by the ED, Vadra used social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter to influence witnesses and tamper with evidence. The ED claims that Vadra’s actions were in breach of the court’s order that prohibited him from contacting witnesses or tampering with evidence.
The ED also submitted screenshots of Vadra’s posts and messages on social media as evidence. The agency argued that Vadra’s posts were aimed at maligning the image of the investigative agency and influencing the ongoing investigation.
The High Court will hear the matter on the next date of hearing and take a decision on the ED’s plea. If the court accepts the plea, Vadra’s anticipatory bail may be cancelled, and he could be arrested in connection with the money laundering case.
Vadra is being investigated by the ED in connection with a case related to the purchase of properties in London worth 1.9 million pounds (approximately Rs 17.86 crore). The case came to light in 2019 when the ED lodged an FIR under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) based on a complaint registered by the Income Tax Department.
Vadra has denied any wrongdoing and termed the allegations against him as politically motivated. He has claimed that he is being targeted due to his relation with the Gandhi family.
The ED’s move to challenge Vadra’s anticipatory bail is seen as a significant development in the case. It indicates the agency’s determination to pursue the investigation against Vadra and bring him to justice if any wrongdoing is established.
The case has been closely watched as it involves a prominent political figure and raises questions about corruption and money laundering in the Indian political system.
It remains to be seen how the court will rule on the ED’s plea and whether Vadra will be taken into custody for further questioning and investigation.