Delhi Police File Fresh FIR Against Rahul, Sonia Gandhi in National Herald Case
Delhi Police File Fresh FIR Against Rahul, Sonia Gandhi in National Herald Case
The ED's money laundering probe leads to a fresh FIR naming Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, and others in the National Herald matter; cognisance hearing set for December 16.
The Delhi Police's Economic Offences Wing filed a new FIR in the National Herald money laundering case on Sunday, naming Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi alongside several others. The complaint, triggered by a submission from the Enforcement Directorate, accuses the named individuals and entities of criminal conspiracy, dishonest misappropriation, and related offenses as part of the ongoing probe into alleged financial irregularities at Associated Journals Ltd.
The charges list sections 120B (criminal conspiracy), 403 (dishonest misappropriation of property), 406 (punishment for criminal breach of trust), and 420 (cheating) of the Indian Penal Code, with several entities including Young Indian and Dotex Merchandise Ltd also named as accused (except for unknown others). The FIR mirrors actions already reflected in an ED chargesheet filed earlier this year, which the court has not yet cognised. The matter remains linked to the broader National Herald case, which centers on the use of AJL’s assets and funds in ways the ED contends amount to money laundering under the PMLA.
Meanwhile, the court had earlier scheduled a decision on whether to take cognisance of the ED chargesheet for December 16. It has been noted that the proceedings include a right to be heard for the accused before cognisance, under newly applicable provisions designed to safeguard due process. The predicate offenses under investigation are the same IPC sections cited in the FIR and the ED chargesheet, underscoring the intertwined nature of the allegations and the legal process.
Reaction from the Congress has framed the National Herald matter as part of a political vendetta, with leaders calling the investigations a continuation of coercive politics against top party figures. Supporters argue the case is being pursued without a clear basis, while opponents emphasize accountability in a high-profile financial matter. As the investigation unfolds, observers are watching closely how the judiciary handles cognisance and any further evidentiary developments in this politically charged case.
Cover image source: Delhi Police files FIR against Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi in National Herald case on ED complaint 🔗
