Is the ED Investigation Against P.V. Anvar Politically Motivated?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- P.V. Anvar alleges the ED investigation is politically motivated.
- He secured a loan of Rs 9.5 crore from KFC in 2015.
- Approximately Rs 6 crore of the loan has been repaid.
- The ED is investigating potential irregularities linked to Anvar's loans.
- Ongoing scrutiny may impact Anvar's political future.
Malappuram/Kochi, Nov 22 (NationPress) Former Nilambur MLA and Trinamool Congress leader P.V. Anvar criticized the recent search by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) at his residence and connected locations, labeling it as politically motivated. He claimed that the investigation pertained to a legitimate loan he secured from the Kerala Financial Corporation (KFC) back in 2015.
"I borrowed Rs 9.5 crore, of which approximately Rs 6 crore has been repaid. There is absolutely no involvement of money laundering. I only took a lawful loan," he stated, asserting that he had provided all necessary documents and explanations to the ED.
Anvar mentioned that he had sought a one-time settlement, highlighting that the loan was acquired before he assumed the role of MLA.
"The claim that I took two loans against the same property is misleading. Numerous applicants qualify for one-time settlement options. Why was I singled out? It likely stems from political reasons," he contended.
He questioned if there were any political figures who had not been subjected to ED investigations, suggesting a pattern of selective targeting across political parties.
In the meantime, ED officials confirmed that searches were executed at residential, commercial, and institutional properties related to Anvar, including Malamkulam Constructions Private Limited, Pee Vee Aar Developers, and Bis Manjeri LLP. This was part of an inquiry into suspected irregularities in obtaining loans.
Investigators are probing potential fund diversion, benami ownership of assets, and the use of the same collateral for multiple loans without adequate verification from KFC officials.
The loans, amounting to Rs 12 crore, have reportedly devolved into non-performing assets, with total outstanding dues, including interest, estimated at nearly Rs 22.30 crore.
During the operation, various documents, digital devices, and property records were confiscated, and further questioning of Anvar is anticipated.
Earlier this year, Anvar, previously a two-time Independent legislator supported by the Left, parted ways with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and stepped down from his legislative position.
Although he initially declared he would not run in the by-election following a breakdown in discussions with the Congress-led UDF, he eventually participated and finished a distant third, with Congress reclaiming the Nilambur seat after previously losing to Anvar in 2016 and 2021.