ED Questions Raman Arora Over Alleged PMLA Violations Linked to Vigilance Cases

appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday in connection with an investigation into alleged violations of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). According to officials, Arora arrived at the ED’s local office at approximately 11:15 a.m. to join the inquiry. The central agency had directed him to appear at its Jalandhar office and submit certain important documents as part of the ongoing investigation. The ED’s probe is reportedly based on a case registered against the legislator by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau on May 23 last year. Arora has been accused of allegedly conspiring with Municipal Corporation officials, including an Assistant Town Planner and an inspector from the Building Branch, to issue fraudulent notices regarding building regulation violations to residents and allegedly extort money from them. On the day he secured release in the Vigilance Bureau case, Arora was re-arrested by the Commissionerate Police in another case involving allegations of bribery and extortion. Concern Within the Ruling Party Arora’s appearance before the ED has reportedly created unease among leaders of the ruling Aam Aadmi Party. Party members are said to be concerned that the MLA, who was considered close to the party’s top leadership before his arrest, could disclose important information during questioning by the central agency. Party Had Already Distanced Itself Political observers have noted that the party had already distanced itself from Arora following his release from jail in September last year. Even after his release, he was reportedly sidelined within the party structure. Until last month, he was allegedly not permitted to meet members of the public or verify official documents. As of now, he has not inaugurated any new development project in his Assembly constituency. Instead, constituency in-charge Nitin Kohli has been leading public and organizational activities in the area. The ED investigation remains ongoing, and further developments are expected as the agency continues its examination of the documents and allegations linked to the case.