New Delhi: The Delhi court heard today from the Enforcement Directorate that it has found new evidence of AAP leader Manish Sisodia’s involvement in the alleged excise scam and that the investigation is at a “critical” stage.
The agency asked for more time to present its arguments on the bail plea of the former Delhi deputy chief minister.
The court, presided by Special Judge MK Nagpal, postponed the hearing on the plea till April 12.
The judge also extended Manish Sisodia’s judicial custody till April 17 after he was brought before the court and the agency sought more time.
The Enforcement Directorate lawyer said that the agency was “collecting new evidence that has emerged.” “We need time…requesting court to give us time to make our arguments,” the lawyer said briefly.
Manish Sisodia’s lawyer, on the other hand, argued that the ED has no proof to support the allegation that he had engaged in money laundering.“There’s no basis (for the allegation).
They’ve examined and searched everything, raided my house etc. but found nothing. The (excise) policy was approved by various authorities concerned, including the LG.
Now you’re blaming Manish Sisodia alone. Also, this (the investigation) is not under the ED’s jurisdiction,” the lawyer said.
He claimed that the central anti-money laundering agency cannot make the vague accusation that he will tamper with evidence if he gets bail.
“You never alleged any attempt by me to influence, contact, threaten witnesses when I was out and holding (excise) portfolio. Now I’m not even holding any portfolio,” he said.”