Will a Delhi Court Issue a Notice to Robert Vadra in Land Deal Case?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal legal development, a Delhi court has postponed its decision on whether to notify Robert Vadra regarding a land deal linked to a money laundering case. This case raises significant questions about influence and legality in high-profile land transactions, especially in light of the involved political connections.
Key Takeaways
- Delhi court delays decision on notice for Robert Vadra until August 2.
- Allegations of fraudulent land acquisition linked to a money laundering case.
- The land deal involved significant political connections.
- The case continues to unfold as investigations by the ED proceed.
- Public interest remains high regarding the implications of this case.
New Delhi, July 31 (NationPress) A Delhi court has postponed until August 2 the announcement regarding the issuance of a notice to businessman Robert Vadra, who is the son-in-law of former Congress President Sonia Gandhi, in relation to a money laundering investigation tied to a land transaction in Shikohpur, Haryana.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has submitted a prosecution complaint under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), alleging that Vadra's Skylight Hospitality “fraudulently” acquired 3.53 acres of land in the village of Shikohpur, located in Gurugram district, through a “false declaration.”
The Rouse Avenue Courts, which was expected to issue a verdict on Thursday, has decided to delay this announcement until August 2.
Last week, the trial court had reserved its ruling regarding the issuance of a notice to Vadra, who is married to Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. During the proceedings, advocate Zoheb Hossain, representing the ED, asserted that the sale deed inaccurately declared a payment of Rs 7.5 crore, when in fact, no such payment occurred. This amount was provided later to circumvent stamp duty, a detail corroborated by key witnesses, Hossain added.
Additionally, the federal anti-money laundering agency contended that Vadra, “through his personal influence,” secured a commercial license for the land in question.
According to the ED, this land was subsequently sold to DLF at an inflated price, and this aspect remains under investigation.
Earlier this April, Vadra underwent extensive questioning by the ED, during which his statements were also recorded.
The land acquisition under scrutiny occurred in February 2008, during a time when the Congress party was in power in Haryana, with Bhupinder Singh Hooda serving as Chief Minister. Notably, the mutation process, which typically spans several months, was completed the following day.
Months afterward, Vadra was granted permission to develop a housing society on the land, leading to an increase in the plot's value. He sold it to DLF in June for Rs 58 crore.
Suspecting that the proceeds could be linked to a money laundering operation, the ED has been investigating the origins of these substantial gains.
In October 2012, IAS officer Ashok Khemka (now retired), then serving as the Director General of Land Consolidation and Land Records-cum-Inspector-General of Registration in Haryana, annulled the land purchase deal, citing procedural irregularities. Subsequently, in 2013, an internal government panel cleared both Vadra and DLF. Following the rise of the BJP-led government, an FIR was filed by the Haryana Police against former Chief Minister Hooda, Vadra, and others.
Point of View
This ongoing legal battle raises critical issues regarding accountability and transparency in political dealings. As the investigation unfolds, it is essential to remain unbiased and focus on the facts, ensuring that justice is served while respecting the principles of due process.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the connection between Robert Vadra and the land deal?
Robert Vadra is implicated in a money laundering case concerning the fraudulent acquisition of land in Shikohpur, Haryana.
When was the land deal executed?
The land purchase deal in question was executed in February 2008.
What are the allegations against Vadra?
The Enforcement Directorate alleges that Vadra's company acquired the land through false declarations and later sold it at a significant profit.
What has the court decided regarding the notice?
The Delhi court has postponed its decision on issuing a notice to Vadra until August 2.
Who else is involved in the case?
Former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda and DLF are also involved in the investigations and legal proceedings.
