Robert Vadra Faces ED Inquiry Over Controversial Land Deal: What’s Next?
Robert Vadra Summoned by Enforcement Directorate
New Delhi: Businessman Robert Vadra, who is married to Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, arrived at the Enforcement Directorate (ED) office on Tuesday following a new summons related to an ongoing investigation into a land transaction in Gurugram, Haryana.
At 56 years old, Vadra, who is also the brother-in-law of Rahul Gandhi, is set to provide his statement under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
The investigation revolves around a land acquisition made by Vadra's Skylight Hospitality in February 2008, costing Rs 7.5 crore in Shikohpur, Gurugram.
Remarkably, the mutation process, which typically takes a long time, was completed the very next day. Subsequently, Vadra obtained a permit 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 these profits may be linked to a money laundering operation and is tracing the origins of these substantial gains. The transactions occurred during the Congress party's governance in the state, with Bhupinder Singh Hooda serving as chief minister.
Earlier that day, Vadra walked from his home to the ED office after receiving the summons.
He characterized the investigation as a "political vendetta," asserting that he has nothing to conceal.
Previously, he was scheduled to appear before the agency on April 8 but failed to do so.
Vadra has been questioned by the ED in a separate money laundering case in the past.
On Monday, he expressed support for 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 a statement to a news agency, he remarked, "This is excellent news for everyone. If someone has committed a wrongdoing, they must be caught and held accountable."