In a significant development, the Delhi Police has formally served a notice to Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister, D.K. Shivakumar, in connection with the ongoing investigation into the National Herald case. The notice, issued by the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Delhi Police, marks a new phase in the long-running legal and political saga.
Details of the Police Notice
The notice, dated December 5, 2025, was dispatched to the senior Congress leader. It explicitly states that the EOW is actively investigating the First Information Report (FIR) related to the National Herald case. Authorities have indicated that they believe Shivakumar possesses vital information crucial to their probe. The notice formally requests his cooperation in the matter.
Background of the National Herald Case
The National Herald case involves allegations of financial irregularities associated with the acquisition of the now-defunct National Herald newspaper by Young Indian Pvt. Ltd., a company in which top Congress leaders hold stakes. The case has been a major point of political contention for several years, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accusing the Congress leadership of corruption, while the latter dismisses it as a politically motivated witch-hunt.
D.K. Shivakumar, a powerful figure in Karnataka politics and a key troubleshooter for the Congress party, is the latest high-profile political figure to be drawn into the investigation's ambit. His association with the case adds a fresh layer of complexity, given his current constitutional position as the Deputy Chief Minister of a major southern state.
Political Repercussions and Next Steps
This move by the Delhi Police is certain to trigger a strong political reaction. The Congress party is expected to rally behind Shivakumar, framing the notice as another attempt by the central government to target opposition leaders through investigative agencies. The development could further intensify the political war of words between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress.
As per standard procedure, Shivakumar will likely be required to respond to the notice, potentially providing documents or clarifications sought by the EOW. The notice does not imply guilt but is a part of the investigative process to gather evidence and information. The coming days will reveal the specific nature of the information the probe agency is seeking from the Karnataka leader and how he chooses to respond.
This action underscores the continuing legal and political shadows cast by the National Herald case, ensuring it remains a focal point in India's political discourse.
