The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches at the residence of Meka Sri Saran, who is the nephew of BRS MLC K Kavitha, in connection to the Delhi liquor scam. The ED alleged that Saran had relevant information for the investigation but was not cooperating. The search was carried out under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act on March 23, 2024.
Sameer Mahandru, who was previously arrested by the ED in this case, is also being interrogated further. Saran is described as a close relative of Kavitha and was present at her premises during a previous raid conducted by the ED on March 15. Kavitha claimed to be unaware of her nephew’s business and profession when questioned by the agency.
The ED has accused Kavitha of being a key conspirator and beneficiary in the Delhi excise policy scam. It is expected that she will be confronted with Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, former Deputy CM Manish Sisodia, and others involved in the case. Kejriwal is currently in ED custody after being arrested by the agency.
Kavitha allegedly orchestrated a deal with the Delhi government, Kejriwal, and Sisodia, involving kickbacks paid through intermediaries. In exchange for these kickbacks, she allegedly gained access to policy formulation and favorable positions. The ED claims that Kavitha was involved in activities related to proceeds of crime amounting to at least Rs 292.8 crore.
During custodial interrogation, Kavitha has been providing evasive replies and confronting other accused individuals involved in the case. The investigation is ongoing as the ED continues to gather evidence and information related to the Delhi liquor scam.
