Legal Battle Unfolds: ED Challenges Trial Court Decision in National Herald Case

The Delhi High Court is set to hear a plea by the Enforcement Directorate challenging a trial court's refusal to recognize its chargesheet in the National Herald money laundering case involving Congress leaders Sonia and Rahul Gandhi. The ED alleges conspiracy and improper acquisition of assets worth Rs 2,000 crore.

The Delhi High Court on Thursday scheduled a hearing for March 9 concerning a plea by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) challenging a trial court's decision. The court had declined to acknowledge the ED's chargesheet against Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and others in the high-profile National Herald money laundering case.

Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma has granted the Gandhis and others time to respond. However, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the ED, argued against the extension, emphasizing the two-month prior notice given to the respondents. He underscored that the case presents a 'neat question of law' and expressed concern over the trial court's findings obstructing other cases.

Accusing the Gandhis and associated parties of conspiracy and money laundering, the ED claims they unlawfully took control of properties worth Rs 2,000 crore belonging to Associated Journals Limited, publishers of the National Herald. The central allegation involves a disputed Rs 90 crore loan and the acquisition of AJL assets by Young Indian, a company the Gandhis reportedly held a significant stake in.

(With inputs from agencies.)