ED quizzes Sonia Gandhi for 2 hours amid protests, calls her again on July 25

New Delhi, July 21

Congress president Sonia Gandhi today appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and recorded her statement under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in a case related to the National Herald newspaper.

The day was marked with a show of strength by the party. Protests were held and leaders courted arrest across the country. The ED has summoned Sonia again on July 25.

The 75-year-old leader, who is recovering from Covid, stayed at the ED headquarters for a little over two hours. The questioning session was concluded at her request, ED officials said. However, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh claimed the ED told Sonia that they had no further questions and she could leave. Sonia said she would be willing to respond to any other questions they might have and was ready to stay on till 8 pm or 9 pm, if necessary, Ramesh tweeted.

“The ED then said it had nothing to ask of her either Thursday or Friday. After which Sonia said she was willing to appear on Monday,” he said. The ED officials said Sonia was questioned by the same assistant director-level officer, who interrogated Rahul Gandhi in the case related to alleged financial irregularities in the Congress-promoted Young Indian Private Limited, which owns National Herald. A woman officer was also part of the team, they said.

The summoning of the Congress leader created a political storm both within Parliament and across the country.

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot said, “Officials could have come to her residence and recorded the statement.” Leaders of 13 political parties accused the government of unleashing political vendetta.