Money Laundering Charges Filed Against Top Congress Leadership: Sonia, Rahul Gandhi Named in ED Chargesheet

New Delhi, April 16, 2025: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a formal chargesheet against senior Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in an ongoing money laundering case tied to the National Herald newspaper. This move follows years of investigation and marks a significant development in the high-profile case.

Allegations of Money Laundering and Property Misuse

The ED alleges that the Gandhis misused party funds to take control of Associated Journals Limited (AJL), acquiring its assets through Young Indian Pvt Ltd for a fraction of their value, with estimates suggesting Young Indian gained assets worth over ₹2,500 crore by paying only ₹50 lakh.

Key Figures and Companies Named in ED’s Chargesheet

The chargesheet lists Sonia and Rahul Gandhi, along with Congress associates and two companies, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, with potential penalties of up to seven years in prison if convicted.

The ED found that the accused generated income through questionable means, such as fake donations and advance rents, leading to illegal financial gains. Recently, assets worth ₹661 crore linked to the case were seized, including properties in Delhi, Mumbai, and the Herald House in Lucknow. The court will review the charges and decide on the next steps on April 25.

Congress Calls Charges Politically Motivated

The Congress party has dismissed the allegations as politically motivated, claiming the government targets opposition leaders through investigative agencies to damage its image ahead of elections.

This case originally began with a complaint filed in 2014, and the ED has been actively investigating the matter since. It also comes at a time when Robert Vadra, businessman and relative of the Gandhis, is under scrutiny in a separate case involving land transactions.