The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued a summons to a relative of a Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader in connection with the money laundering case involving former Maharashtra minister Ashok Kharat. The development comes as the central agency intensifies its investigation into alleged financial irregularities linked to Kharat, who served as a minister in the state government.
Background of the Case
Ashok Kharat, a former minister in the Maharashtra government, is under scrutiny for alleged corruption and money laundering. The ED had earlier registered a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) based on a First Information Report (FIR) filed by the Maharashtra Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB). The ACB had accused Kharat of amassing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income during his tenure as a minister.
Summons to Relative
According to sources, the ED has now summoned a close relative of an NCP leader, whose identity has not been disclosed, to appear before the investigating officer. The relative is expected to provide details about certain financial transactions and assets allegedly linked to Kharat. The agency is examining whether the relative facilitated the laundering of illicit funds on behalf of the former minister.
NCP Leaders Under Scanner
The summons has put the NCP leadership on alert, as the ED's probe widens. The party has maintained that it is cooperating with the investigation and that the matter pertains to individual actions. However, opposition parties have seized the opportunity to target the NCP, accusing it of shielding corrupt elements. The ED is likely to summon more individuals in the coming days as part of its comprehensive investigation into the case.
Legal Proceedings
Ashok Kharat has denied all allegations of wrongdoing, claiming that the cases against him are politically motivated. He has sought relief from the courts, but the ED continues to gather evidence. The agency has already conducted searches at multiple locations linked to Kharat and his associates, seizing documents and digital evidence. The summons to the NCP leader's relative marks a significant step in the probe, indicating that the ED is tracing the money trail beyond the immediate circle of the accused.
The case has drawn political attention in Maharashtra, where the NCP is a key ally in the ruling coalition. The ED's actions are being closely watched as they could have implications for the stability of the state government. Meanwhile, the agency remains tight-lipped about the specifics of the summons, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.
