ED Conducts Searches at Premises Linked to AAP MP Ashok Mittal in FEMA Investigation
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday executed coordinated searches at multiple premises associated with Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP and Lovely Professional University founder-chancellor Ashok Kumar Mittal. This action follows closely on the heels of Mittal's recent appointment as AAP's deputy leader in the Rajya Sabha, a position he assumed after replacing Raghav Chadha.
Scope and Locations of the Raids
Officials confirmed that the searches are part of an ongoing investigation under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). Approximately ten locations across Jalandhar, Phagwara, and Gurgaon were targeted in the operation. Key sites included Mittal's residence situated on Mall Road in Jalandhar Cantt, along with two educational institutions in Gurgaon: Tetr College of Business and Masters Union College of Business. The raids commenced simultaneously in the morning and persisted late into the evening, indicating a thorough and extensive probe.
Political Backlash and Accusations
The development has ignited a significant political controversy, with AAP leaders vehemently accusing the BJP-led central government of misusing central agencies to target opposition figures, particularly in the context of upcoming Punjab elections. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann took to social media to express his outrage, posting: "BJP begins preparations for Punjab elections... ED raids at the home and university of AAP Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Mittal... typical Modi style..." He further quoted a poetic couplet, emphasizing resilience against perceived political storms.
AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal reposted Mann's statement, adding: "Modi ji has started preparations for the elections in Punjab. But the people of Punjab will not tolerate this. They will give a befitting reply to the BJP." Party leader Manish Sisodia echoed these sentiments, criticizing what he described as a pattern of using agencies like ED and CBI as an "election army" ahead of state polls, while warning that such tactics would not succeed in Punjab.
Timing and Context of the ED Action
The timing of the ED raids has drawn intense scrutiny, given Mittal's recent elevation to the role of deputy leader in the Rajya Sabha. AAP had recently requested the Rajya Sabha secretariat to reallocate Chadha's speaking time to other party members, facilitating Mittal's new responsibility. Mittal himself had characterized this leadership transition as a "continuous process," noting that it reflects the dynamic nature of party roles.
Since being elected to the Rajya Sabha by AAP, Mittal has been actively involved in parliamentary affairs, serving on several key committees including defence and finance, and participating in international parliamentary delegations. AAP currently holds ten seats in the Rajya Sabha, with seven from Punjab and three from Delhi, underscoring the party's growing influence.
BJP's Defense and Counter-Allegations
In response to the criticism, BJP leaders defended the ED's actions. Union Minister of State Ravneet Bittu retorted on social media, stating: "Bhagwant Mann, your party is full of thieves and looters. The people of Punjab are filing complaints against the state's ministers, and investigative agencies are catching your corrupt MPs. Modi's policy is for a clean India, and under it, the filth will certainly be cleaned up."
State BJP president Sunil Jakhar also weighed in, asserting: "Who calls their own yoghurt sour, chief minister Bhagwant Mann? The actions of your legislators, ministers and MPs are becoming public knowledge every day. If your govt does not take action, then the Govt of India will have to act against corruption. Moreover, the high court has already ordered an investigation into the scholarship scam."
The ED's probe into Ashok Mittal's affairs marks a significant escalation in the ongoing political tensions between AAP and the BJP, with both sides trading sharp barbs over allegations of corruption and misuse of power. As investigations continue, the fallout is likely to reverberate through Punjab's political landscape in the lead-up to elections.
