AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan Detained by ED in Waqf Board Money Laundering Case
AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan Detained by ED in
Waqf Board Money Laundering Case
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) detained Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Amanatullah Khan on Monday. The investigative agency conducted a raid at his residence in connection with a money laundering case linked to the Delhi Waqf Board, where Khan serves as Chairman.
The Allegations: Misuse of Waqf Properties
The case revolves around alleged irregularities in Waqf properties, including illegal leasing and appointments. The ED claims that Khan, along with other accused, misappropriated funds and violated rules during his tenure. The agency has already filed a charge sheet against four accused persons and one firm, alleging that Rs 100 crore worth of Waqf properties were leased illegally.
Raid and Detention
The ED arrived at Amanatullah Khan’s residence early Monday morning, executing a search warrant. Despite his protests and claims of innocence, Khan was detained and taken into custody. Khan's cousin, Minnatullah Khan, spoke out, emphasizing that previous investigations by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) found no incriminating evidence against Khan.
AAP MLA's Defense
In a video shared from his residence, Khan accused the ED of harassing him and his family, pointing out that his mother-in-law, a cancer patient, was present during the raid. He insisted that the investigations are politically motivated, aimed at weakening the AAP ahead of upcoming elections.
Political Reactions
AAP leaders, including MP Sanjay Singh and Delhi Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj, criticized the central government for allegedly using investigative agencies to target the party. They claimed the timing of the detention was suspicious, suggesting it was an attempt to create pressure on AAP as elections approach.
Court Proceedings
Following his detention, Amanatullah Khan was produced in the Rouse Avenue Court, where he was remanded to four days of ED custody. The court allowed him to have legal meetings, home-cooked food, and medicines during his custody. The ED argued that Khan is the main accused in the case, and his custody is necessary for further investigation.
The Property Deal: A Key Allegation
The ED's case centers on the purchase of a 1200-square-yard plot in Okhla, valued at Rs 36 crore. The agency alleges that Khan laundered money through this property deal, paying Rs 8 crore in cash and the remaining amount through other accused individuals. The investigation also uncovered diaries that reportedly document high-value transactions linked to Khan and other suspects.
Ongoing Investigations
The ED's investigation is part of a broader probe into alleged money laundering and financial mismanagement within the Delhi Waqf Board. The agency continues to gather evidence, and further legal action is anticipated as the case unfolds.
Legal Defense and Challenges
Senior advocates representing Amanatullah Khan have argued that the ED's case lacks new evidence, noting that Khan had already been granted bail in related cases investigated by the CBI and ACB. They also questioned the timing and legitimacy of the ED's actions, suggesting that the charges are politically motivated.
Conclusion
As the investigation continues, the case against Amanatullah Khan has become a focal point of political controversy, with accusations of misuse of power by central agencies. The outcome of this legal battle will likely have significant implications for Khan, the AAP, and the broader political landscape in Delhi.
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