Former Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Chhagan Bhujbal outside Enforcement Directorate office (Press Trust of India photo)
Senior NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal appeared before the Enforcement Directorate today for questioning in a money laundering case connected to the Maharashtra Sadan construction scam. He was summoned by the ED last week.
Anticipating trouble from his supporters, the Mumbai Police had imposed prohibitory orders in the area around the ED office in upscale Ballard Estate in south Mumbai.
As the former Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister arrived in his white Toyota Camry, around 100 of his supporters raised slogans and tried to cross the barricades. They were detained by the police.
The agency is probing allegations of kickbacks linked to the Maharashtra Sadan construction project. It is also investigating claims that another company owned by the Bhujbal family, Armstrong Energy, is illegally parking funds abroad.
The ED has filed two cases against Mr Bhujbal, his son Pankaj, nephew Sameer and some others. Last month, Mr Bhujbal's nephew was summoned by the ED. He was later arrested. His son Pankaj has also been questioned in the case.
The ED had also conducted searches at nine properties belonging to the Bhujbals as part of its probe.
The NCP had described the case as "political vendetta". NCP spokesperson Jitendra Ahwad told reporters outside the ED office today that Mr Bhujbal is being "victimized." "Party chief Sharad Pawar and all other members stand by Mr. Bhujbal in this hour of crisis. We are here in full strength to support him," he said.