Akhilesh Yadav Calls for Disbanding the ED Amidst Political Turmoil
Akhilesh Yadav's Bold Stance on the Enforcement Directorate
Bhubaneswar: On Wednesday, Akhilesh Yadav, the leader of the Samajwadi Party, expressed his opinion that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) should be abolished, suggesting that other agencies are capable of handling economic crimes.
While at the Bhubaneswar airport en route to the Jagannath temple in Puri, Yadav remarked that the Congress party, which established the ED during its tenure, is now facing challenges due to this very agency.
He stated, “I prefer discussing the ED over the National Herald issue. The Congress created the ED and is now in a predicament because of it. I have previously mentioned to a senior journalist that there are various institutions, such as the Income Tax Department, that can address economic offenses. Thus, the ED is unnecessary and should be disbanded.”
The ED has recently filed charges against prominent Congress figures, including Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, alleging their involvement in laundering a sum of Rs 988 crore in the National Herald case.
When questioned about the effectiveness of the BJP's 'double engine' governance model, Yadav commented that the two engines in Uttar Pradesh are not functioning cohesively.
He added, “I am unaware of the situation in Odisha. The expected outcomes of synchronized governance at both the state and central levels have not been achieved.”
Regarding the BJP's accusations concerning violence related to the Waqf Amendment Act in Murshidabad, West Bengal, Yadav stated, “Mamata Banerjee is the chief minister, and I believe no CM would intentionally disrupt peace in her own state.”
He further alleged, “In places like Kannauj, BJP members have instigated riots by placing meat in temples. The BJP is willing to go to great lengths to sow discord among communities.”
During his visit, Yadav also met with senior Congress leader Srikant Jena, emphasizing the SP's interest in expanding its influence in Odisha.
He remarked, “We aim to strengthen our presence in Odisha by connecting with more individuals on the ground.”
Discussing his meeting with Jena, Yadav stated, “I am here to promote Babasaheb Ambedkar's vision of equality, respect, and inclusivity. Jena embodies these values, and with Ambedkar's dream in mind, the SP is focused on growth in Odisha.”