New Delhi: The Rouse Avenue Court of Delhi has scheduled the hearing for December 20 to deliberate on the cognizance of the Enforcement Directorate's supplementary chargesheet in a money laundering case involving controversial arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari and others. This legal saga has unfolded with recent summonses, refusals to appear, and continued investigations.
Summoning Sanjay Bhandari's Relatives:
On November 24, the Enforcement Directorate informed the court about summoning Sanjay Bhandari's relatives, Sumit Chaddha and Pooja Chaddha, who reportedly refused to comply. Advocate Naveen Kumar Matta, representing the ED, stated that further actions were being taken in this matter.
Chargesheet Updates and Additional Accused:
Special Judge Neelofer Abida Parveen noted the submissions, officially recording the chargesheet and linking the supplementary chargesheet with the main case, set for a hearing on December 20. Sources reveal that the chargesheet names two additional accused. Sanjay Bhandari's alleged proximity to Robert Vadra, the husband of Priyanka Gandhi, adds a layer of complexity to the case.
Allegations Against Sanjay Bhandari and Robert Vadra:
The ED has been investigating several allegations against Sanjay Bhandari, focusing on his purported connections with Robert Vadra. Claims suggest that during the UPA era, Bhandari received commissions and acquired properties in London, with Robert Vadra as the alleged beneficial owner. Vadra has consistently denied these accusations.
Legal Maneuvers by Robert Vadra:
Robert Vadra's legal team, emphasizing the prolonged nature of the investigation, argued that he is not an accused, and no incriminating evidence has been found against him. The court had previously allowed Vadra to travel abroad, considering his past travels without any interference in the ongoing investigations.
ED's Concerns and Extradition Proceedings:
The Enforcement Directorate, opposing Vadra's travel plea, expressed concerns about his influence, political clout, and connections, suggesting a potential interference with legal proceedings. The extradition process of Sanjay Bhandari from the UK is underway, with the Westminster Court ordering his extradition in July 2022. The Secretary of State affirmed this extradition order on January 12, 2022.
Attachment of Property and Ongoing Investigations:
In April of the current year, the Enforcement Directorate took action by attaching a property worth Rs 4.50 crore in Delhi, belonging to Sharan Svadha LLP. This move is part of the broader investigation involving Pilatus Aircraft Ltd, Switzerland, Sanjay Bhandari, and others.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the case brings to light the intricate connections, alleged wrongdoings, and the pursuit of justice in the realm of money laundering and high-profile individuals. The developments indicate a complex web of legal intricacies that will likely be unraveled in the upcoming court hearings.
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