Chhattisgarh: ED Grills Congress Leader Malkit Singh Gaidu For 7 Hours Over Party Building Funds

Raipur: Enforcement Directorate officials questioned Congress General Secretary for Chhattisgarh, Malkit Singh Gaidu, for seven hours at their office on Thursday. They sought information on four points, including the construction of the Congress building in Konta, the time taken for completion, details of contractors, and the funds spent on construction and land purchase.

After the inquiry, Gaidu spoke to the media and Congress members outside the ED office, stating that he had submitted all requested documents. Despite this, the ED continued to question him about the liquor scam and former excise minister Kawasi Lakhma. The ED has requested Gaidu to return with the necessary documents on March 3.

This prompted protests from Congress members outside the ED office. Prominent Congress leaders criticized the ED's motives, alleging it operates under the directives of the Modi government.

Former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel challenged the ED to summon BJP leaders regarding the construction of the BJP office at Kushabhau premises, claiming the ED's actions are meant to divert public attention and are focused on discrediting the Congress party. He urged the ED to ask BJP leaders about the funds used for their mega building in Delhi.

Congress state president Deepak Baij questioned the ED's actions, asserting that the Congress building was funded by donations from Chherchhera Punni and the support of workers, and claimed that this investigation is unprecedented in targeting an opposition party's state office.

Baij stated, "The ED has issued summons, but we have accounted for every penny. If the Congress Bhawan is under investigation, why isn't the BJP's state office being scrutinized?" He accused the central government of misusing the ED and other agencies to weaken the opposition.