AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan's Arrest Sparks Major Legal Debate

AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan has been produced before a Delhi court by the Enforcement Directorate in a money laundering case. The ED sought a 10-day custody to confront Khan with other accused and evidence. Khan faces charges related to irregularities in the Delhi Waqf Board and disproportionate assets.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) brought Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Amanatullah Khan before a Delhi court on Monday in connection to a money laundering investigation.

Khan was presented to Special Judge Rakesh Syal as the ED requested a 10-day custody for further interrogation alongside other accused individuals and relevant evidence.

Khan's counsel challenged the legality of his arrest, arguing against the allegations put forward by the ED. The court proceedings are ongoing.

Earlier, the ED had detained Khan under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) following a search at his Okhla residence.

According to the ED, Khan was evasive during questioning and is allegedly the primary accused in the case, involving laundered funds used to purchase properties. The agency also pointed out his lack of cooperation despite multiple summons.

The charges against Khan arise from two FIRs: one by the CBI for alleged irregularities in the Waqf Board and another by the Delhi ACB for disproportionate assets. The ED states that significant illegal proceeds were obtained through illicit recruitment and mismanagement of Waqf Board assets during his tenure as chairman.

Khan is among several AAP leaders recently arrested on similar charges, including Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Deputy Chief Minister Sisodia. The ED has previously conducted raids on Khan's properties, claiming he amassed substantial illegal revenue through improper hiring and asset purchases linked to the Waqf Board.

(With inputs from agencies.)