Robert Vadra Claims Government is Hindering His Philanthropic Efforts Amid ED Investigation
Vadra's Accusations Against the Government
New Delhi: Businessman Robert Vadra has publicly accused the government of obstructing his charitable initiatives and silencing his voice regarding their unfair treatment of minorities. This statement came shortly after he was interrogated by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) regarding a land transaction in Gurugram. Reports indicate that he is scheduled for further questioning by the ED today.
Vadra maintains his innocence, asserting that 'the truth will come to light.' In a recent Facebook update, he expressed frustration that his philanthropic activities during his birthday week have been interrupted by the ED's summons.
He stated, “My Birthday Week Seva has been paused for a few days. Plans I have made for feeding the elderly and gifts for all the children in different areas will be continued as soon as I get over the 'Government’s ways of stopping Me' from doing good and speaking about their unjust behavior towards minorities, or if there are even wishes and talks of me being in politics.”
Vadra emphasized that he will not be deterred from meeting the needs of the community, declaring, “I’m here for any kind of unjust pressure. I believe in the truth, and truth will prevail.”
On Tuesday, Vadra, who is married to Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, walked to the ED office from his home, labeling the investigation a 'political vendetta' and asserting that he has nothing to conceal.
He received a new summons related to the ongoing investigation into a land deal in Gurugram, Haryana. The 56-year-old businessman, who is also the brother-in-law of Rahul Gandhi, provided his statement under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
The case involves a land acquisition made in February 2008 for Rs 7.5 crore by Vadra's Skylight Hospitality in Shikohpur, Gurugram. The mutation process, which typically takes a long time, was completed the very next day. Subsequently, he obtained permission to develop a housing society on the property, significantly increasing its value. He later sold the land to DLF for Rs 58 crore in June.
The ED suspects that the profits from this transaction may be linked to a money laundering operation and is investigating the source of these substantial gains. These transactions occurred while Congress was in power in the state, with Bhupinder Singh Hooda serving as chief minister.
Previously, Vadra was summoned to appear before the agency on April 8 regarding this case but did not comply.
He has also faced questioning from the ED in a separate money laundering investigation.
On Monday, Vadra welcomed the arrest of fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi, calling it a pivotal moment for the country. He highlighted the necessity of recovering misappropriated funds from Choksi and compensating those affected by the Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam.
In an interview, he remarked, “This is very good news for everyone. If somebody has done wrong, he must be nabbed and brought to book.”