Enforcement Directorate seeks custodial interrogation in probe linked to alleged coal scam
New Delhi, April 14: A Delhi court on Tuesday remanded I-PAC director Vinesh Chandel to 10 days of custody with the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a money laundering investigation. The order was passed by Additional Sessions Judge Shefali Barnala Tandon at the Patiala House Court following an overnight hearing.
Chandel was produced before the court late on April 13 after his arrest in the case.
ED Seeks Custodial Interrogation
The Enforcement Directorate argued for custody to question Chandel regarding his alleged role in financial transactions under scrutiny. According to the agency, Chandel holds a 33 per cent stake in PAC Consulting Private Limited, which is being investigated under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
The case stems from an earlier FIR registered by the Delhi Police, which formed the basis for the ED’s probe.
Link to Ongoing Investigation
Officials said the investigation is connected to a broader inquiry into an alleged coal scam. As part of the probe, the ED had previously conducted searches at the Kolkata residence of another I-PAC director, Pratik Jain.
I-PAC, or Indian Political Action Committee, is known for providing political campaign consultancy services and has worked with various political parties, including the Trinamool Congress.
Allegations and Denial
The ED has alleged that during the search operations, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited the I-PAC office and attempted to interfere with the investigation by removing certain documents and digital evidence.
Banerjee has denied these allegations.
Legal Context
Under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, the ED is empowered to investigate financial crimes involving proceeds of crime and to seek custody of accused persons for interrogation.
Custodial remand allows investigators to question the accused in detail and examine evidence linked to financial transactions.
Public Impact
The case has drawn attention due to its links with political consultancy operations and allegations involving public figures. It also highlights ongoing efforts by enforcement agencies to investigate financial irregularities and alleged corruption.
Conclusion
With Vinesh Chandel now in ED custody for 10 days, investigators are expected to intensify questioning and examine financial records as part of the ongoing probe. Further developments in the case are likely in the coming days. (With inputs from H.S.)
Inputs & Images courtesy: Hindusthan Samachar (H.S.)
Edited by: Dikshita Bollu
Last Updated on: Tuesday, April 14, 2026 1:16 pm by Bollu Dikshitha | Published by: Bollu Dikshitha on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 1:16 pm | News Categories: India
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