THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
New Delhi, May 2: A Delhi court on Friday issued notices to Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and several others in connection with the ongoing National Herald money laundering case. The development follows the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) submission of a chargesheet against them.
Next Hearing on May 8
The Rouse Avenue Court has scheduled the next hearing in the case for May 8. During a previous hearing on April 25, the court had observed that it needed to determine whether issuing notices was necessary.
It had also pointed out that some crucial documents were missing from the chargesheet and directed the ED to submit them before proceeding.
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Court Emphasizes Right to Fair Hearing
While issuing the notices on Friday, the court noted that all accused, including Sonia and Rahul Gandhi, have the right to be heard on the chargesheet. The court stressed that a fair trial requires hearing every accused party, which ensures that the case proceeds in a just and transparent manner.
ED Cites New Legal Provisions
Earlier, the ED told Special Judge Vishal Gogne that under newly established legal provisions, no complaint can be acted upon without first hearing from the accused. At that time, the court had declined to issue notices, agreeing that due process must be followed.
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The ED argued again on Friday that in line with the amended rules, the court must first hear the accused before taking cognizance of the complaint. “We do not want this order to be delayed further. The notice should be issued,” the ED counsel urged.
The case remains under active judicial scrutiny as the court prepares to examine the chargesheet and hear the arguments from all sides.
