The Enforcement Directorate (ED) launched a significant operation on Friday, raiding multiple locations linked to businessman Raj Kundra, husband of Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty. The raids are part of an ongoing money laundering investigation stemming from allegations surrounding the distribution of pornographic and adult films. Approximately 15 locations across Mumbai and several cities in Uttar Pradesh were targeted, including the home and office of the 49-year-old Kundra, and the residences and offices of several associates.
The extensive nature of the ED’s operation underscores the seriousness of the investigation. The agency’s focus on multiple locations suggests a wide-ranging probe into the alleged network involved in the distribution of illicit content. While specifics of the investigation remain undisclosed, the scale of the raids indicates a considerable effort to gather evidence and uncover the extent of the alleged criminal activity.
Amidst the unfolding investigation, Raj Kundra took to social media to address the situation and the repeated mention of his wife’s name in media reports. In a strongly worded statement, he emphasized his full cooperation with the ongoing investigation, which he stated has been underway for the past four years. He refuted accusations of association with pornography and money laundering, asserting that the truth will ultimately prevail.
Kundra’s statement also included a pointed rebuke of the media’s handling of the situation, expressing his displeasure at the repeated inclusion of his wife, Shilpa Shetty, in the narrative. He directly addressed the media’s tendency towards sensationalism, emphasizing the need for respect for personal boundaries.
In response to the widespread media coverage linking Shilpa Shetty to the case, her lawyer, Prashant Patil, released a formal statement unequivocally denying her involvement in any wrongdoing. The statement categorically refuted media reports suggesting that Shilpa Shetty had been raided by the ED, emphasizing that she is not implicated in the investigation in any capacity. Patil’s statement highlighted the ongoing investigation concerning Raj Kundra, and he reaffirmed Kundra’s cooperation with the authorities. The lawyer further requested that media outlets refrain from utilizing images and videos of Shilpa Shetty in their reporting on the case, emphasizing that her inclusion is inappropriate and potentially damaging. He strongly condemned irresponsible journalism that links her to the case and warned that strict action would be taken against such practices.
The case continues to unfold, and further developments are anticipated as the ED completes its investigation. The public awaits further clarification from the authorities on the specific details of the allegations and the evidence gathered during the raids. The differing narratives from Raj Kundra and Shilpa Shetty’s legal team underscore the complexities of the case, leaving the public to await the official findings of the ongoing investigation.