National Herald Case: ED Attaches Assets Worth Rs 751.9 Crore, Congress Calls 'Poll Panic'
National Herald Case: ED Attaches Assets Worth Rs 751.9 Crore, Congress Calls 'Poll Panic'
The recent attachment of properties belonging to the Congress-linked Young Indian-owned National Herald newspaper by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has sent shockwaves through the political landscape. The properties in question include National Herald House in Delhi and Mumbai, as well as Nehru Bhavan in Lucknow.
The ED's action comes as a result of ongoing investigations into the National Herald case, which involves allegations of financial irregularities and money laundering. The case dates back to 2012 when it was alleged that the Young Indian company, controlled by Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, had acquired the assets of the National Herald newspaper through questionable means.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has strongly criticized the ED's move, labeling it as a desperate attempt by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to create panic ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in five states. Kharge argues that the timing of the attachment, just months before the elections, is a clear indication of the BJP's nervousness about its electoral prospects.
While the ED's actions may be seen by some as politically motivated, it is important to note that the investigation into the National Herald case has been ongoing for several years. The attachment of assets worth Rs 751.9 crore is a significant development in the case and underscores the seriousness of the allegations.
It is worth mentioning that the National Herald newspaper holds historical significance as it was founded by India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. However, the newspaper ceased publication in 2008 and the controversy surrounding its ownership has overshadowed its legacy.
The Congress party has vehemently denied any wrongdoing in the National Herald case and has accused the BJP of using investigative agencies for political vendettas. The party has vowed to fight the attachment of its assets legally and has expressed confidence in the judicial process.
As the National Herald case continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the political landscape will be impacted. The upcoming assembly elections in five states will undoubtedly be closely watched, with the ED's actions adding another layer of complexity to the already heated political environment.
Ultimately, it will be up to the courts to decide the outcome of the National Herald case. Until then, the attached assets will remain under the control of the ED, and the Congress party will continue to defend itself against the allegations leveled against it.