NEW DELHI: In a recent development, a Delhi court has extended the custody of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sanjay Singh, who was arrested in connection with an alleged excise scam-related money laundering case linked to the 2021-22 Delhi Excise policy. The court's decision has led to his detention being prolonged until October 13.
Sanjay Singh's arrest took place on October 4 when the Enforcement Directorate (ED) initiated an investigation into money laundering allegations associated with the Delhi Excise policy case. During the court proceedings, a significant point of contention arose regarding Sanjay Singh's interactions with the media while being produced in court. The court, concerned about security issues, directed him not to speak to the media.
Sanjay Singh, in response to reporters' queries, asserted, "Honest people are with us while dishonest are with Prime Minister Narendra Modi." This statement reflects the political undertones surrounding the case.
Before announcing the custody extension, the court granted Sanjay Singh a brief two-minute meeting with his family and lawyer. The ED argued that the case involves substantial money transactions, justifying the need for further remand. However, Sanjay Singh's lawyer, Rebecca John, countered this argument, stating that there was nothing in the remand papers to support sending the MP on ED remand again. She also questioned whether the ED had attempted to obtain CCTV footage from Sanjay Singh's residence, suggesting that the aim might be to tarnish his image rather than establish wrongdoing.
In another development, the Enforcement Directorate summoned two associates of Sanjay Singh, Sarvesh Mishra and Vivek Tyagi, for questioning in the Delhi Excise policy case. It is important to note that during their questioning, they were not confronted with the evidence seized by the agency during its investigation. It is expected that they will also be confronted with Sanjay Singh at a later stage.
The case has garnered significant attention due to its political implications, with AAP leaders claiming that it is politically motivated and aimed at tarnishing their image. As the custody of Sanjay Singh is extended, the legal proceedings surrounding this case continue to unfold, impacting the political landscape in Delhi.
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