Punjab Minister Challenges Arrest: Illegal Under PMLA?

Punjab Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora has escalated his battle against the Enforcement Directorate, contesting his arrest under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act as 'illegal and unconstitutional.' Arora was apprehended in connection with a purported Rs 100-crore GST fraud case.

Arora's legal team, led by Senior Counsel Puneet Bali, argues that the arrest violates the statutory safeguards outlined in Section 19 of the PMLA and constitutional protections under Articles 14, 21, and 22. The plea demands the quashing of a Gurugram Special Court's decision to remand Arora in ED custody.

Despite extensive raids, Arora maintains his transactions are fully documented and claims there was no legal basis for his arrest. His counsel underscores the transparency of export operations undertaken by Hampton Sky Realty Limited, shedding light on what they argue to be a 'predetermined' enforcement action.

(With inputs from agencies.)