ED summons Himachal CM

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, November 27

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) today issued summons to Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh and one of his associates to record their statements here on December 4 in connection with the money laundering case.

The CM, however, has been given the liberty to send an “authorised person” with all relevant documents to record statement on his behalf.

Sources in the ED said, “The agency has issued summons under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and has asked Virbhadra to either appear in person or authorise a person to come to the agency’s Delhi office on December 4.”

Clarifying the liberty given to the Chief Minister with an option not to appear in person, sources said, “Keeping in view his position in the state, as he may have other pressing engagements, we have allowed him to send an authorised or legal representative on his behalf. He or she can submit documents related to personal finances and other details of the Chief Minister.”

Meanwhile, CM Virbhadra Singh in Himachal Pradesh today mocked top investigating agencies and tax authorities for “concentrating so much” on him while sparing all important people from the corporate world and other fields, and that he was “proud of the honour”. He confirmed he had received the ED notice and his lawyer would appear on his behalf.