The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has taken a significant step by filing a complaint against two of its officers who are alleged to have taken bribes in connection with the Delhi excise policy case. This case has raised concerns about corruption within the agency and its potential impact on ongoing investigations.
According to the ED’s complaint, the officers identified as Pawan Khatri, an Assistant Director, and Nitesh Kohar, an Upper Divisional Clerk, are accused of accepting bribes in relation to the Delhi excise policy case. This case revolves around alleged corruption and irregularities in the excise policy.
The investigation has revealed that accused businessman Amandeep Singh Dhall and another individual named Birender Pal Singh allegedly provided Rs 5 crore to Praveen Vats, a chartered accountant, between December 2022 and January 2023. The purpose of this payment was to obtain assistance in the ongoing investigation.
It has been reported that Deepak Sangwan, an Air India employee, played a role in facilitating these transactions. He assured Praveen Vats that he could arrange protection from arrest for Amandeep Dhall in exchange for money. Sangwan introduced Vats to Pawan Khatri, one of the accused ED officials.
Based on Sangwan’s assurance, Praveen Vats received Rs 3 crore from Amandeep Dhall in several installments. It was communicated that an additional Rs 2 crore would secure the removal of Amandeep Dhall’s name from the accused list. Vats took this money from Dhall in multiple tranches.
Praveen Vats stated that he provided Rs 50 lakh as an advance payment to both Deepak Sangwan and Pawan Khatri in cash. This payment was made in December 2022 behind ITC Hotel in Vasant Vihar.
Despite these alleged efforts, Amandeep Dhall was arrested by the ED on March 1, 2023. This development came as a shock to Praveen Vats, who was led to believe that the arranged payments would prevent Dhall’s arrest.
The ED’s investigation also led to the discovery of substantial amounts of cash, jewelry, and assets during searches conducted at the residences of the accused individuals. The investigation has further exposed the alleged involvement of ED officials in the bribery scheme.
The case highlights the importance of maintaining the integrity of investigative agencies and preventing corruption within their ranks. The allegations against the ED officers raise concerns about the potential compromise of ongoing investigations and the need for rigorous checks and balances.
