New Delhi (National Times): The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday searched 13 locations in Delhi and adjoining areas, including the residence of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Saurabh Bharadwaj, in connection with a money laundering probe linked to hospital construction projects sanctioned during the party’s rule in the capital.
Officials confirmed that the searches were related to suspected irregularities in projects worth over Rs 5,500 crore, approved between 2018 and 2019. However, details of any recoveries or seized assets have not been disclosed.
Bharadwaj, a three-time MLA from Greater Kailash, has held key roles including Health Minister, Urban Development Minister, and chairperson of the Delhi Jal Board. He remains a prominent voice of the AAP.
The inquiry was triggered by a complaint filed in August 2024 by then Leader of Opposition Vijender Gupta. The complaint alleged corruption in 24 projects — involving 11 new hospitals and upgrades of 13 others — that faced delays, cost escalations, and suspected fund diversion.
Investigators have highlighted that the Rs 1,125 crore ICU Hospital Project, aimed at adding 6,800 beds across seven facilities, remains incomplete despite large-scale spending.
The Anti-Corruption Bureau earlier registered a case against Bharadwaj and former health minister Satyendar Jain after receiving approval under the Prevention of Corruption Act. Allegations include manipulation of budgets, misappropriation of funds, and collusion with contractors.
The latest ED action intensifies scrutiny of AAP’s infrastructure projects and their financial management.
