The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has taken a significant step in the ongoing Excise Policy case by filing a supplementary prosecution complaint (chargesheet) in Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court. This development marks the eighth chargesheet filed in connection with the alleged money laundering linked to Delhi's excise policy.
The charge sheet specifically names Vinod Chauhan, who stands accused of facilitating illicit transfers of funds purportedly received by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) through hawala channels. Scheduled for hearing on July 1, the case is being pursued vigorously by Special Public Prosecutor Naveen Kumar Matta before the vacation judge at Rouse Avenue Court.
Vinod Chauhan's involvement revolves around the transfer of funds amounting to Rs 25.5 crores out of a total of Rs 45 crores allegedly utilised during the AAP's electoral campaign in Goa. His arrest in May, conducted by the ED from its Goa Zonal Office, has placed him in judicial custody pending further proceedings.
During previous court appearances, the ED, represented by Advocates Zoheb Hossain and Naveen Kumar Matta, asserted that Chauhan was fully aware of the illicit origins of the transferred funds, which were linked to the Delhi liquor excise policy scandal.
According to ED allegations, Chauhan played a pivotal role in facilitating hawala transfers and managing cash movements. Moreover, he was purportedly a key intermediary between bureaucrats, politicians, and the funds' recipients.
In the course of investigations, searches conducted at various locations yielded significant findings, including the seizure of Rs 1.06 crores from Chauhan's residence. The ED contends that this amount, allegedly associated with the South Group, was being held for AAP leaders.
The Excise Policy case has drawn attention for alleged irregularities during the modification of Delhi's excise policy. Both the ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) have accused individuals of extending undue favours to licence holders, waiving or reducing licence fees, and extending the L-1 licence without proper authorization from competent authorities.
As legal proceedings continue, the ED's latest chargesheet underscores ongoing efforts to unravel the complexities surrounding financial irregularities linked to Delhi's excise policies. The case remains a focal point in the scrutiny of alleged misconduct and financial impropriety within the political landscape.
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