The federal agency is searching around 15 locations, including Khachariyawas’s residence in Jaipur. A security detail from the CRPF has also been assigned to the operation.
Speaking to reporters outside his family home in Jaipur, Khachariyawas, who is the nephew of former vice president Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, claimed that the ED’s actions were “politically motivated” due to his criticisms of the government.
He maintained that he hadn’t committed any wrongdoing and expressed he was “not afraid” of the ED.
As news of the ED’s actions spread, supporters gathered outside his home, chanting slogans in his favor.
“They have arrived with a notice to search the premises but have not connected it to any specific company. They have the right to search anywhere in the country. I am neither fearful nor anxious,” Khachariyawas told the media.
“If there is an issue, I will address it. Six lawyers represent me,” he added.
The 2015 money laundering investigation originates from a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) FIR against PACL India Limited, PGF Limited, the late PACL promoter Nirmal Singh Bhangoo, and others for running “fraudulent” investment schemes to mislead investors.
According to the ED, these schemes resulted in the “defraudation” of investors amounting to approximately ₹48,000 crore.
Sources indicated that alleged “proceeds of crime” may have been funneled to several entities, including those associated with Khachariyawas.
The ED has confiscated assets worth ₹706 crore, including two properties worth ₹462 crore located in Australia, and has filed two chargesheets against PACL, Bhangoo, and others.
Bhangoo passed away in August 2024.
Khachariyawas asserted that the ED’s search of his home was intended to intimidate him.
“The BJP is arrogant. They have been in power at the Centre for 11 years and also in Rajasthan. My vocal opposition to them has led to this action, but I won’t be intimidated,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to continue opposing the government.
He criticized the ED for undertaking actions without justification.
“They summoned our leader Rahul Gandhi. I will respond when they provide a reason. Thus far, the ED has not explained the rationale behind the searches,” he remarked.
Khachariyawas admonished the BJP government for politicizing the ED’s efforts.
The former minister further clarified that he has no connections to any company.
Living in a joint family, he noted that such investigations disrupt his entire household.
“I plan to build a new home and name it ‘Kranti House’ to spearhead a movement from there so my family remains undisturbed,” he declared.
The Leader of the Opposition in the Rajasthan Assembly, Tikaram Jully, labeled the actions against Khachariyawas as “political revenge.”
“Former minister and senior Congress figure Pratap Singh Khachariyawas has been vocal against the BJP government. Citing this, the BJP has utilized central agencies against him,” Jully wrote on X.
“A similar harassment attempt was made in 2020. This action against Pratap Singh Khachariyawas is condemnable and reflects a spirit of political retribution,” he added.
