Anil Deshmukh unable to explain source of huge wealth, says ED
India Today
ED said that former minister Anil Deshmukh was the main conspirator in a money laundering case and is unable to explain the source of his wealth.
While praying for the rejection of bail application filed by former Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) stated that Deshmukh was the main conspirator in money laundering conspiracy and is unable to explain the source of huge wealth and proceeds of crime.
The reply to Deshmukh's bail was filed by Tassine Sultan, Assistant Director, ED which stated "Deshmukh has amassed huge wealth during his public service source of which is still unexplained."
Citing Deshmukh's long political career, the probe agency said he is a "very influential person having deep political roots. There is a likelihood of the accused attempting to influence the investigation and witnesses."
The reply stated, "There is also a strong possibility of Deshmukh obfuscating the trail of Proceeds of Crime and tampering with the evidence. It is pertinent to mention here that statements of various suspected persons are yet to be recorded who are avoiding appearance before the investigation team. Hence, granting bail at this stage may hamper the investigation."
READ | Ex-Maharashtra home minister Anil Deshmukh arrested by ED in money laundering case
The former minister moved the high court after a special court under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) rejected his default bail application. Deshmukh stated in his plea that he is a victim of gross persecution and harassment being meted out to him at the hands of certain 'unscrupulous vested interests'.
The reply filed through Advocate Shreeram Shirsat, ED opposed the bail pointing out that the allegations by Deshmukh would be examined at the trial stage.
