The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday informed a Gurugram court that Punjab minister Sanjeev Arora is misleading the investigation in a money laundering case linked to illegal mining. The ED made the submission while opposing Arora's anticipatory bail plea.
ED's Allegations
The agency alleged that Arora, who is the Punjab minister for employment generation, skill development, and training, has been evading summons and providing misleading information. The ED claimed that Arora's statements are contradictory and intended to derail the probe.
According to the ED, the investigation pertains to a case of illegal sand mining in Punjab, which led to the generation of proceeds of crime. The agency suspects that Arora played a key role in facilitating the illegal activity and laundering the money.
Arora's Defense
Senior advocate N. Hariharan, representing Arora, argued that the minister has been cooperating with the investigation and has not violated any law. He contended that the ED's case is based on assumptions and lacks concrete evidence.
The court, after hearing both sides, reserved its order on the anticipatory bail plea. The ED has sought custodial interrogation of Arora, claiming that his custody is essential to unearth the larger conspiracy.
Background of the Case
The case stems from an FIR registered by the Punjab Police against unknown persons for illegal mining in the Ghaggar riverbed. The ED later took over the investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Several individuals, including former Punjab minister Sadhu Singh Dharamsot, have been arrested in connection with the case. The ED has also attached properties worth crores of rupees belonging to the accused.
The agency has been probing the role of public servants and politicians in the illegal mining racket. Arora's name surfaced during the interrogation of some accused.
The court is expected to pronounce its order on Arora's bail plea on Saturday.
