Probe Intensifies Over Alleged Disproportionate Assets and Illegal Extortion

Charges

Jalandhar, 02 June (H.S.): Aam Aadmi Party MLA from Jalandhar Central, Raman

Arora, appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) office in Jalandhar on

Tuesday for questioning in connection with a money laundering case. The MLA was

summoned by the central agency and arrived at the ED office as directed. A

video showing Arora entering the office premises also surfaced. Before

entering, his personal belongings were deposited as per procedure.

The investigation is linked to a disproportionate assets case in which the

Punjab Vigilance Bureau had earlier arrested Arora. Based on the FIR registered

by the Vigilance Bureau, the ED initiated a money laundering probe under the

Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Raman Arora is also facing allegations of illegally extorting money from

shopkeepers and other business establishments. The Vigilance Bureau had

registered a case involving assets worth approximately Rs 1.10 crore. Following

his arrest, a court had remanded him to five days of police custody.

According to the allegations, Arora, along with Assistant Town Planner (ATP)

Sukhdev Vashisht, allegedly issued illegal notices to property owners. These

notices reportedly threatened sealing and demolition actions, while money was

allegedly demanded in exchange for withdrawing or settling the cases.

Officials said Arora was asked to appear before the ED office on June 2,

where his statement was to be recorded under the provisions of the PMLA. The

investigation is ongoing, and agencies are examining financial transactions and

related documents as part of the probe.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH