Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids against Punjab Industries Minister Sanjeev Arora, accusing the central government of misusing investigative agencies for political vendetta.
Kejriwal's Allegations
Kejriwal, who is also the national convener of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), alleged that the Modi government is using the ED to target opposition leaders. He claimed that the raids on Arora's premises were a clear example of political harassment and an attempt to intimidate the Punjab government.
“The Modi government is misusing the ED like a weapon to settle political scores. They are targeting AAP leaders one by one. First, it was Manish Sisodia, then Sanjay Singh, and now Sanjeev Arora. This is a conspiracy to destabilize the elected government in Punjab,” Kejriwal said during a press conference.
Details of the ED Raids
The ED conducted searches at multiple locations linked to Sanjeev Arora on Friday, including his residence and office premises in Chandigarh. The raids are part of an investigation into alleged money laundering related to the excise policy case. The AAP has termed the raids as baseless and politically motivated.
Arora, who is the Industries and Commerce Minister in the Punjab government, has denied any wrongdoing. He stated that the ED action is an attempt to pressurize the state government.
Political Reactions
The raids have sparked a political controversy, with the AAP accusing the BJP-led central government of using central agencies to target opposition-ruled states. Several AAP leaders have come out in support of Arora, condemning the ED's actions.
On the other hand, the ruling BJP has defended the ED, stating that the agency is acting independently and within the legal framework. BJP leaders have accused the AAP of trying to shield corrupt ministers.
The Punjab government has already passed a resolution against the misuse of central agencies, and Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has expressed solidarity with Arora.
Kejriwal further warned that if the Modi government continues this vendetta politics, the AAP will launch a nationwide protest against the misuse of investigative agencies.
