The BRICS TimesDelhi Police’s Economic Offenses Wing registered a new FIR in the National Herald case. Indian Overseas Congress chief Sam Pitroda is also named in this recent filing.
New FIR Filed by Delhi EOW
The Delhi Police’s Economic Offenses Wing (EOW) registered a new FIR in the National Herald Case. This new FIR names Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi. It also includes the Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson, Sonia Gandhi. Six other names are part of this recent legal action. The FIR was lodged after the ED headquarters filed a formal complaint with the EOW.
Allegations of Fraudulent Takeover
The FIR alleges a conspiracy to fraudulently acquire control of Associated Journals Limited (AJL). AJL is a company associated with the Congress party. The ED shared its investigation report with the Delhi Police. This report recommended registering a scheduled offense under Section 66(2) of the PMLA. The charge claims that the Young Indian company gained control. This allowed them to manage AJL’s assets worth about ₹2,000 crore.
Sam Pitroda’s Name Included in FIR
Besides Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, the FIR names several others. Indian Overseas Congress chief Sam Pitroda is included. The filing lists three other individuals and three companies as well. Dotex is an alleged shell company in Kolkata. It reportedly gave ₹1 crore to Young Indian. Young Indian then allegedly took over AJL for only ₹50 lakh paid to Congress. The assets of AJL are valued at over ₹2,000 crore.
Hearing Scheduled for December 16
The Rouse Avenue Court deferred its decision on the ED’s chargesheet. This was about taking cognizance in the National Herald money laundering case. Special Judge Vishal Gogne will announce the order on December 16. The agency alleges financial irregularities linked to AJL. AJL is the publisher of the National Herald newspaper.
Fair Trial Cited by Court
The court referenced Section 223 of the new criminal law, BNSS. It stated that hearing the accused is essential for a fair trial, even at this stage. The court clarified this provision does not clash with PMLA. It instead enhances transparency. The court will decide whether to take cognizance of the ED’s chargesheet on December 16.
