The Enforcement Directorate (ED) carried out raids at Lovely Professional University in Phagwara, along with multiple properties linked to AAP MP Ashok Kumar Mittal.
The searches were conducted by ED teams from Jalandhar and Chandigarh as part of an ongoing investigation.
Probe Linked to FEMA Violations
According to officials, the raids are related to alleged violations under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).
- Multiple business entities connected to the Lovely Group were searched
- Residential premises of Ashok Kumar Mittal were also covered
- Other institutions and businesses linked to the group were included in the operation
Other Locations Under Scanner
Apart from Lovely Professional University, the ED also searched:
- Business schools in Gurugram
- Distance education centres
- Commercial establishments like sweets shops and auto businesses
- Residences of family members linked to the group
Mittal’s Recent Political Elevation
The raids come shortly after Ashok Kumar Mittal was appointed as AAP’s Rajya Sabha deputy leader, replacing Raghav Chadha.
Mittal, a chartered accountant and founder of LPU, is among AAP’s key members in the Rajya Sabha.
AAP Leaders React Strongly
Following the raids, Arvind Kejriwal criticised the move, alleging political motivation ahead of elections.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also reacted, calling the action a “typical” move by the Centre.
The Aam Aadmi Party has claimed the raids are part of a broader political strategy.
No Local Police Assistance
Officials stated that the Enforcement Directorate carried out the operation without seeking assistance from local police, indicating a centrally coordinated probe.
