ED Raids Politically Motivated, Alleges DK Shivakumar

Bengaluru, Sept 11 : Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Friday alleged that the Enforcement Directorate's searches at the premises of Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi and his relatives were politically motivated, claiming that central investigative agencies were selectively targeting Congress leaders.

"This is a political development. Congress party leaders and opposition leaders are being targeted," Shivakumar said. He added that he was aware that three or four more people could be targeted.

Shivakumar said he had reassured Jarkiholi that he had done nothing wrong and was conducting his business within the legal framework. He also questioned the alleged lack of action against BJP leaders despite allegations of money laundering and transfer of funds to foreign accounts.

"Action by investigative agencies is being taken only against Congress leaders," he said.

Jarkiholi, meanwhile, accused the ED of targeting "small fish" while sparing the "big fish". He said the cash found during the searches belonged to his family and that legal proceedings were underway to recover it.

"This is not an ED raid, but an inspection. If there were any doubts, a notice could have been issued and information could have been sought," Jarkiholi said, maintaining that he and his associates had fully cooperated with the authorities.

The Minister said searches were conducted at seven to eight locations and that the ED had sought details regarding overseas investments. The notice, he said, referred to provisions of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), adding that the investment issue was still under legal process.

"There is a political smell behind this search. Small fish are being caught while big fish are being left out. We may have made small mistakes, but there are people in the BJP who have committed bigger mistakes," Jarkiholi said.

Meanwhile, Shivakumar announced that the Karnataka Legislature would hold a three-day special session from September 21 to 23 to discuss the Kasturirangan report and issues concerning the Western Ghats.

He said all MLAs would be given an opportunity to express their views and that the final decision would be taken keeping the interests of farmers and the public in mind.

On child labour, Shivakumar termed a police officer's reported remarks on the issue unfortunate and said the Police and Labour departments must work together to protect children.

He also said the Congress respected Vande Mataram, the national flag, the national anthem, democracy, freedom and the Constitution.