The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has alleged that Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi were direct beneficiaries of ₹142 crore in proceeds of crime linked to the ongoing National Herald case. The explosive claim was made during preliminary arguments before Special Judge Vishal Gogne at Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court on Wednesday, intensifying one of the most politically sensitive legal battles in recent times.
The probe agency informed the court that the allegations establish a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), underscoring what it claims is a clear money trail. The ED’s prosecution complaint its equivalent of a chargesheet was presented in court against the two senior leaders and other accused in connection with the financial dealings involving Associated Journals Ltd. (AJL) and Young Indian Pvt. Ltd.
The roots of the case trace back to 2014, when BJP leader Subramanian Swamy filed a private criminal complaint. The magistrate’s court took cognizance of the complaint in June of that year, triggering a long-standing legal and political confrontation. The ED officially launched its investigation into the matter in 2021.
Representing the Congress leaders, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi asked the court for additional time to study the voluminous case documents, which span over 5,000 pages. He noted that given the complexity and volume of evidence, a detailed response would require careful legal scrutiny. The court acknowledged the request and adjourned further proceedings to allow the defence sufficient time to prepare.
The National Herald case centers on the acquisition of AJL by Young Indian, a not-for-profit company where Sonia and Rahul Gandhi are shareholders. The ED has alleged that Young Indian acquired assets worth hundreds of crores through minimal investment, raising concerns about misuse of public funds and illegal financial gains.
While the Congress party has consistently dismissed the charges as politically motivated, the ED’s recent submission signals a more aggressive phase of the investigation. Political observers note that the case could have significant implications ahead of key electoral battles and may impact the party’s public narrative.
The case is likely to return to court for further proceedings once the defence submits its formal reply. The spotlight remains firmly on the legal and political ramifications of what has become a flashpoint between the BJP-led central government and the Congress party’s top leadership.
