News Headlines
Agencies Have Spread Terror: Ashok Gehlot Denies Forex Violation Allegations Against Son As Vaibhav Appears Before ED
Nishtha Anushree
Oct 30, 2023, 01:03 PM | Updated 01:03 PM IST
Save & read from anywhere!
Bookmark stories for easy access on any device or the Swarajya app.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son, Vaibhav, made an appearance before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) today (30 October) regarding alleged violations of foreign exchange regulations. Vaibhav Gehlot arrived at the ED's office in Delhi around 11:30 am.
The ED had instructed Vaibhav to provide his statement either in Jaipur or the national capital. These summons are related to recent ED raids against the Rajasthan-based hospitality group Triton Hotels & Resorts Pvt. Ltd., Vardha Enterprises Pvt. Ltd., and their directors and promoters, including Shiv Shankar Sharma, Rattan Kant Sharma, and others.
During the searches conducted last month, the ED had seized ₹1.2 crore in cash. It is alleged that the Triton group received investment from a Mauritius entity during 2007-2008. Vaibhav Gehlot is expected to face inquiries about his purported connections with Rattan Kant Sharma.
According to NDTV, Ashok Gehlot dismissed the allegations against his son, asserting that Vaibhav has no involvement in foreign exchange dealings. He clarified, "Vaibhav Gehlot only owns a taxi company. Rattan (Kant Sharma) was a partner, but they now operate separately."
The Rajasthan CM criticised central agencies, citing concerns about their credibility due to alleged misuse by the BJP-led central government. He remarked, "Central agencies have lost their credibility now. It is a worrying situation. This is not just about my son or the state Congress president. Aatank macha rakha hai desh mein (they have spread terror in the country)."
Gehlot also criticised the central agencies for issuing sudden and brief summons, stating, "Is this a joke?"
Save & read from anywhere!
Bookmark stories for easy access on any device or the Swarajya app.
Nishtha Anushree is Senior Sub-editor at Swarajya. She tweets at @nishthaanushree.
Introducing ElectionsHQ + 50 Ground Reports Project
The 2024 elections might seem easy to guess, but there are some important questions that shouldn't be missed.
Do freebies still sway voters? Do people prioritise infrastructure when voting? How will Punjab vote?
The answers to these questions provide great insights into where we, as a country, are headed in the years to come.
Swarajya is starting a project with an aim to do 50 solid ground stories and a smart commentary service on WhatsApp, a one-of-a-kind. We'd love your support during this election season.
Click below to contribute.